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Chapter Text

It ended as it begun.  

Robin clawed her way to feet, swaying helplessly in the slight breeze that rolled through the dense forest.

Her breaths were shallow and desperate, the smell of burnt flesh clogging the back of her throat, her stomach lurching as both past and present haunted her.   

Looked around for signs of life she slowly stumbled forward through the trees, the uneven floor becoming a harder trial with every step.

This island had lived up to its name - Laughtale. In the days they had spent traversing the cursed land they had seen it all. Nothing here made sense, what was up could turn down, a storm could turn to a ravaging sun or a flurry of snow at a moment's notice. A walk through the dense forest could turn to a hike up the steepest mountains, or a slog through the dryest dessert. 

Strawhat Robin wasn't the archologist for nothing, diligently she had worked to uncover the truths of this land useing her knowledge to slowly edge her way back to her captain.  

Her ribs shook at every move she made, brokenly threating to make each moment her last. Through the pain she brokenly made her way forward, barely glancing around at the chaos that surrounded her, Robin forced herself to focus on the journey forward even as she edged past the bodies scattered, most undisguisable between friend or foe in their utter destruction. She could see traces of ice and lava as it glistened, both equally as deadly as the other. 

She closed her eyes tightly willing for the destruction to disappear.

War never ended well, and this one had begun in her name.   

Stumbling towards the center of the island spurned on only by blind hope and desperation, Robin continued her lonely journey, for the first time since it begun there was only silence. Desperate she prayed to any gods that were able to listen, maybe all was not lost, perhaps she could see one of her dear Nakama reach their dream before she gave into the darkness that had begun to edge its way across her vision. 

Sheer will drove her forward as she clambered over traps and treacherous pathways, determined to make it back to the reason she had come this far, to the one who had finally brought her dream to reality, she needed to see him succeed, it would all be worth it, if he made it to his crown. In her head she saw the ever-present grin on her captain's face as he accepted his legacy, she could almost see the future laid out ahead, how her captain would avenge them all and bring a brighter future.   

Her dream ended as reality came crashing down as she finally made it to her Captain,a version of Luffy that sent shivers down her spine in her final moments.   

Her Captain lay helpless, brokenly hunched over the treasure he had sought, but as Robin watched she realized he had lost the will, he was broken.

Her desperate words were unable to form as she took in the sight of the once 'Noble' Red Haired Shanks stood over what remained of her Captain.   

Gripping the last embers of strength Robin clutched her arms for the last time, her last sight as she fell was the tell-tale sheen of black covering Shanks neck as her hands failed to gain purchase.  

“Release” the faint whisper fled uselessly from her mouth falling with her last breath, as she collapsed to the cold stone.  

Chapter Text

Once the dust had settled from the battle of Marineford and Luffy had pieced together the shards of his shattered heart he had made a promise to himself, a solemn vow that he had clung to desperately as they had their adventures; he would never again allow himself to lose his Nakama.  

A deathly silence crashed through him as the last vesper of his chosen Nakama left the mortal plane, he had failed, there was nothing left.

When they had first arrived on the last island they had been blinded by hope, war may be ravaging through the world, but here they were together at the end of the line. They were together, whole, and so close to achieving it all, but then it all came crashing down. War landed on the shore, the players gathering on the final field.

They had led themselves to their doom.  

The battle lasted days as they clawed their way to the ultimate goal, stumbling through the once lost land, the landscape changing around them.

Rules meant nothing here and as they blindly stumbled forward their comrades fell.  

Just as he had given up all hope, Robin, his lovely archaeologist, had finally cracked the final code. Diligently leading her Captain to his dream.

He had made it, but as he swayed on his knees in front of the fated treasure that had begun it all he felt hollow, this was not what he wanted. 

What good was ultimate freedom when you had no one to share it with? No more dreams left to chase, no more laughs to be had. 

The drums of liberation had come to a halt and Luffy was drowning in the silence. 

Time froze as he knelt, his mind detached from the world that burned around him.

Nations had fallen in his name, the world irrevocably changed, and for what? 

"Anchor" A strained crackled voice broke through the fog in Luffy's mind. 

Blinking back to his cruel reality, Luffy stared chillingly at the ordinary looking chest in front of him. It remained unopened, rust covering the clasp. A phantom anger filled him; it hadn't been worth it. The cost was too high.

He had been so attuned to his crew and family, feeling it all as each member fell, days of feeling the cold chill of death grasping harder, its hand creeping up the boys back, making its way upwards until it was choking him with a white knuckled grip. He wouldn't have even made it this far if not for Robin dragging his lifeless frame determinedly forward. Her voice clipped leaving no room for argument as she suffered her own grief, her sharp word reminding them both that the crew had put their faith in him. He had to make it. If they didn't it would have been for nothing, his family would have died in vein. She had been his guiding light in the darkness, but even she had fallen to the insurmountable odds.  

It was all over and Luffy was done, his fight gone along with his crew.  

"I surrender" Luffy muttered using the last of his energy to blink his dead eyes up to meet Shank's own. 

Shanks turned his face away, his eyes to fall shut against the pain, unable to face the consequences of where his actions had led them. Unobserved by the two captains time continued to pass as they remained still in the endless void. Two streams of water creeped their way down the older Captains face, landing heavily on the sand below.  

Luffy numbly wished he still had the ability to cry, the passion to rage against this cruel world. 

"I'm not here to stop you Luffy." Shanks voice broke, as he reached out a shaking hand to the younger man's head, gently rubbing his fingers against the hat of his once captain, regret flooding his heart.  

Luffy was too broken to protest the red head’s actions, disassociating from reality even as a part of his shattered noted the irony of the position, Robin would of appreciated the humor. 

Shanks encouraged from not receiving a rejection from his anchor pulled his limp form forward, holding him close to his heart. 

"I'm sorry" Shanks voice broke with desperation, willing the boy to somehow understand, to forgive. "I'm so sorry." 

Luffy lay in his mentors grip wishing silently for the end, it hurt to exist. 

"This was never what I wanted" Shanks was sobbing, his frame trembling against Luffy's still form. "It wasn't supposed to be you. I will never forgive myself" Shanks pulled back, a strong hand forcing Luffy to look into his eyes. "I'm so sorry Luffy, the odds were stacked against you from the very start. Next time will be different, you can make it different." Shanks pulled the boy back into him, silently reaching out for something, anything that could spark the light within that had once seemed endless in the younger captain. 

"Next time you can save them all, I promise." He swore, the first honest promise he had given in a lifetime. 

Chapter Text

Luffy's arm flailed wildly as he awoke, limbs blindly fighting against invisible enemies that hid in the shadows, just out of reach.

His breath exhaled in panicked gasps, desperately seeking escape. He reached out blindly, desperately searching for the grip of the one person left who would understand, the only remaining soul on this plane he had left to care, but his hand only found the cold soft furs of his childhood bed.  

He startled, his eyes flying open.

This wasn’t the red force.

Looking around he found himself in a world yet untouched by the horrors of the future, on an island he knew had long since perished.  

His desperate lungs burned for oxygen, his breaths coming in painful bursts, sending a blaze of fire through his tender lungs. His hands raised to claw at his face as if he could scratch away the terror of the future.   

He lay desperately fighting to calm his troubled mind, slowing his raging heart until he could gently reach out gingerly taping into his observational haki. It was something he had avoided since the end of the war, when the empty world had begun to consumed him from within. Gingerly he sent out feelers, finding his range severely weakened, he pushed against his mental walls testing his new limits, desperately searching, feeling for something, anything familiar. 

It had taken years for Luffy to be ready to make the journey to the past. Shanks carefully stitching together the remnants of his mind that had irrevocably broken after losing his family. The red-haired captain had worked tirelessly, desperately seeking salvation from sins caring for the young captain he saw as own son. Feeding him when he refused to eat, soothing him with comforting touches and soft words from his violent nightmares, forcing him away from dangerous habits. Shanks slowly prodded him back to life, reminding him how to hope, until he could finally give Luffy a reason to live.   

Shanks told the straw hat captain all he knew about the one piece, a legendary artefact that would grant the user one wish. A sentient thing that legends told awaited its true master to return, so they could ring in a new generation to a broken world. In another life Shanks believed Luffy would have been that person, but Shanks had ruined that chance. Luffy could no longer hear the drums, his connection to the Nika fruit broken.  

Shanks told Luffy the one piece could still bring them to liberation, that it would do the impossible and bring back all that was lost. At first Luffy had raged against the truth, thinking it was a trick to keep him living. In the early days the boy had desperately tried to find a way to escape the red-heads constant watch, determined to find his own way back to his crew, but slowly he began to listen and eventually he felt the glimmers of hope shining through the darkness.   

Luffy found himself on the deck of the Red Force staring out at the endless sea, the sun peeking through on the horizon. He remembered now how Shanks had carried both Luffy and the still closed treasure chest from the ruins of laugh tale. Fleeing before any remaining forces were sent to inspect the wreckage of the country. They had spent the last few years mostly at sea, alone except each other, only stopping on land for supplies.   

The sea air had been good for the rubber boy, the constant voices of the ocean soothing.   

"Can't sleep?" A rough sleep deprived voice drifted through the night air.  

Luffy glanced over at Shanks as he leaned gently against the thick mast, his sleep clothes ruffled from bed.   

"Sleeps not good" Luffy muttered softly, almost guilty at the admission. "Brings back the bad thoughts"  

Shanks sighed as he approached, placing a hand on the younger boy shoulder before settling beside him watching the waves crashing against the hull. "If you need company, my doors always open. I won’t even kick you out if you kick" The redhead winked.   

Luffy quirked his lip up at Shanks in a half smile, many a night Shanks had awoken in pain as Luffy fought with invisible ghosts in his sleep. "I know, Shanks is always there when I need him."  

Shanks broke eye contact, guilt still a constant companion. They both fell silent listening to the waves below.  

"You nervous about tomorrow?" Shanks asked refusing to wallow in things they could not change.    

"What do you think, Pa, I'm a strong pirate Captain." Luffy smiled as he nudged his mentor gently, before returning his eyes to the water suddenly serious. "Of course I'm nervous, what if I'm too different and I ruin it all?"   

Shanks put an arm around Luffy's shoulder bringing him gently into his chest. "Lu, you can do this, I believe in you! You're ready."  

"Why me?" Luffy muttered burying his face in his mentor's warm hug, the pressure of what was to come heavy on his shoulders.  

"Anchor, from the moment I met you, I knew-" Shanks sighed, pulling back to meet Luffy's eyes, a gentle hand stroking his face. "You are special, a force no one could fight. Its why I couldn't face you till the end because I knew if you asked, I would throw everything away."   

"That day..." Luffy trailed off, his voice pained but his eyes determined, he needed to know. "You could have stopped me, claimed it all for yourself. You could of had everything you wanted. You still could."   

"Luffy." Shanks began looking pained as he stroked Luffy’s back, the feeling of the boys rubber skin calmed him. "I spent my whole life trying to prove I could live up to the legacy of what I was born, you make me want to be better, to do better, but without you... I'm not sure what I would do."   

Luffy looked at Shanks calculating before nodding, allowing the tension to fall from his body and his mind. "Well, Shanks-san is silly, he doesn't believe in himself, so I need to make him."   

Shanks spluttered, looking at the boy in front of him, the one he would bet his life and his arm on.   

"You saved me Shanks, so when I go back, I'll save you, even if it is from yourself." Luffy had a determined look, one Shanks hadn't seen in person on his face since the boy was a child.   

Shanks laughed, weightless at seeing a side of his charge he had thought long gone.  "Okay Lu." He ruffled the boy's hair making him look disgruntled.  

As he rose from his vertical position Luffy could tell instantly that he was smaller, a young teen as opposed to the man he had been. Looking around, Luffy's heart spluttered as he saw the familiar sights of his childhood home at Dadan's, a stabbing pain shot through his heart as he noted the tell-tale signs that neither Ace nor Sabo were here, their bed rolls both missing on from the ground.  

Taking a deep breath Luffy mentally prepared himself for what was to come, he would have to be perfect to save his Nakama and bring back what he lost. He resolutely refused to fail this time; he would save them all.  

Forcefully locking away the traumas of the future Luffy forced a reckless grin on to his face, pausing briefly before he tore through the mountain bandit's hideout purposely causing destruction as he fled. His cackle thundered through the air as Dadan called after him in resigned anger while he swung away through the forest.  

First things first, he knew where he was, he needed to know the when. He slowed to a jog as he resigning himself to the truth- the best place to search for clues would be the hideout.  

His feet knew the path as he trekked to the treehouse, confident he was alone with a quick check of his haki. 

It was bittersweet being back here; a simpler time full of hopes and dreams but also marred with what he had thought was his first taste of loss. 

When he crashed through the old treehouse that smelled of home he looked around. He noted that there was again only one bed roll laid out on the floor. Luffy realized that he must have arrived some time shortly after Ace's departure. He could still feel the once daily tenderness of bruises and scrapes, unhealed from what he could safetly assume was one of his many duels with his brother so Luffy knew it could not have missed Ace by much. Maybe it was for the best, Luffy needed time to prepare himself before running into one of the people he had lost so cruelly, he needed to be ready, so he wouldn’t have a break down at their feet.  

It was a good thing, Luffy chided himself. It was important that he tried to keep to the script and not go off book, so he didn’t change anything for the worse. He sat down on his old bedroll, allowing his hands to stroke through the fur, giving himself a moment of reprieve where he could be alone with his thoughts.  

It had worked.  

Luffy let the thought sink in, a reckless laugh bursting from his chest, one that morphed the longer it continued, ending in body shaking sobs. It was the first time he had been able to break down since he had lost his crew. The emptiness he had once drowned himself in, a shield of protection from the endless losses he had broken down, and he could feel.  

As he cried, he mourned, he said goodbye to the versions of his Nakama he had lost, the version of Shanks he had abandoned. He allowed himself to close the chapter on the future that could have been, one that it would never be again. Hope blossomed as he sat there sobbing, a promise cemented, he would be better, find his crew, allow them to grow as they once had but this time, he would challenge them to be better, to gain the strength to meet their dreams.  

As his sobs subsided a new version Luffy rose from the ashes, one who was tainted by the darkness but had enough light to drown it out.  

He knew what he had to do, and he would succeed.  

Bouncing his way through the forest Luffy looked around at the once familiar sights, part of him still couldn't believe it had worked, he had a chance to rewrite the story and give it a better ending. He knew he would need support. Even with foresight at his disposal Luffy would need allies, people to help him grow stronger before he left for his grand adventure, and he knew just the person to help. 

Arriving at the bar Luffy paused as he watched the smiling face of his pseudo mother serving drinks and talking to the regular patrons enjoying the day. 

Thankfully he had never learned for sure what had become of one of his mother figures, he only knew that the island had been one of the first to fall. Childishly he had clung to the blind hope that Makino and Dadan had escaped the clutches of the vengeful Marines, but the tightness he had seen behind Shanks eyes had told a different story. 

Taking a deep breath Luffy prepared himself to play his part, ensuring he was mentally ready before rushing into the bar. 

"Makino!" Luffy cheered excitedly, part of his brain capturing the image of the barmaid, her green hair flowing as she turned to face him, vibrant and thick. Her cheeks flushed as blood rushed below the surface. She was alive and his memory had never done her justice.  

The green haired woman glanced at the young boy the skin around her eyes crinkling with joy. "Luffy." She smiled as the boy extended his arms desperately pulling himself into her arms. 

His grip wrapped tightly around her, before he stilled eerily, his face squashed into her stomach, a shield so she could not read his expression. Makino instinctively brought her arms around the boy squeezing him softly. "Everything okay Luffy? I only saw you yesterday." Makino's voice conveyed her growing worry as the boy remained unnaturally still in her grasp. "Is it Ace?" she fished for clues. "Do you miss him already?" 

Luffy's heart stopped at the use of a name he had not heard out loud in years, one that had cut a deep scar in his soul. He nodded, his movements jerky, part of his mind at least thankful for the barmaid giving him an excuse for his odd behaviour, it wasn't even a lie, he did miss his brother, for far longer than Makino could know. 

"It's okay Luffy, Ace is special just like you, I know he'll be okay." She gently advised, her hands rubbing soft circles on the boys back. Luffy sniffed starting to unravel his tight grip, Makino caught only a glimpse of Luffy's despaired expression before it was forcibly morphed into its usual grin. 

"Makino, I need to use the Den Den." Luffy exclaimed his voice forcibly excited making Makino question what she had seen. 

"The Den Den? Who would you need to call?" Makino was surprised by the sudden change in both conversation and tone, but then again, she thought it was very Luffy to get distracted, so maybe the boy was okay. 

"Shanks-san" Luffy exclaimed excitedly, chuckling internally at Makino’s panicked expression as she tried to hush his tones so the patrons couldn’t overhear.  

"Luffy you can't..." Makino started before stopping, once more seeing the desperate look cross over the young boy's face, she sighed resigned. Garp would kill her if he knew, but she could not stand the look on her boys face. "Luffy please, I'll see what I can do, but why do you need to call him now?" 

Luffy searched his brain for a viable reason that would not alarm Makino. "Because Ace is going to look for him of course, I have to let Shanks know so he doesn’t hurt Ace for being a brat." 

"If that's all Luffy-kun I can let him know." 

"No, it has to be me." A look of determination covered the young teens face, one that made him look older. 

"Fine" Makino gave in nodding, anything to prevent Luffy from acting strange. She lead the boy into the back, to her hidden Den Den Mushi provided by the red-haired pirate himself. 

"Just one more thing Makino-San, I need to make this call alone. I have some things I need to say to Shanks." A chill went down Makino’s back at the dark determined look that flitted over the young boy's face, but as before as quickly as it appeared it left leaving only a cheeky grin behind it, making the barmaid question if she had really seen it. 

The last thing Makino heard as she left the room was; "Hello, this is Monkey D Luffy future king of the pirates." She chuckled softly to herself, despite some worrying signs it was still her Luffy. 

The call was answered by one of Shanks crew who rushed to tell an intoxicated Shanks he had a call from the famous Anchor himself. The only person Shanks would willingly give an arm to protect. 

Shanks was surprised by the call having not heard from the child in years, kept away by his promise to the boy's volatile grandfather. 

"Anchor" he jovially greeted the boy. 

"Shanks-san." Luffy's voice was different, serious and urgent, the kind of tone that had the Redhead sobering instantly. "I need you to come get me." 

"What happened? Are you okay?" Shanks asked his concern thick over the Den-den, why would the boy need him? Had someone discovered the truth? 

"I'm fine." Luffy responded sharply putting a stop to Shanks’ dark thoughts. "Well... I’m mostly fine, it’s just you need to teach me to get stronger!" 

Shanks laughed, relief flooding his system, he had thought something was wrong but it was just Anchor being his persistent self. "What happened to you becoming king of the pirates without me?" 

"The one piece is hidden on Laugh Tale." Luffy's reply was in a whisper that Shanks had to strain to hear. His usually chirpy voice was despondent, his child was dissociating, protecting himself from something that hurt to say. "I found it, Pa...” Shanks gasped at the name, even as heart soared it broke, this was not the same Luffy they had left. “Everything was burning, everyone was gone, all I had left was you and that stupid treasure." Luffy's voice was choaked rasping out of his throat as he fought with the pain of reliving the worst day of his life. "We were the only two left Pa, just us, alone, it hurts to be alone." 

Shanks drink fell from his hand as a cold shock drove through him, the smashing glass hitting the floor drawing his crews eyes. Waving them away Shanks picked up the Den Den rushing to his quarters desperate for privacy. 

"Kid, how do you know where the one piece is?" Shanks tone was urgent, focusing on the one detail his brain could handle, the one that should be impossible, where had this 14-year-old child found out the single best kept secret of the modern era? 

Luffy whined deep in his throat, couldn’t Shanks understand this hurt him to speak of? This was turning out to be harder than he had hoped. His frustration bled into his tone the words coming out harsher and more clipped then he meant. "I just told you I found it, it’s not important how, what is important is that you told me I need to be stronger, so I need you to train me." 

"Kid I..." 

"I know your scared Shanks” Luffy implored, understanding the precautious position his father was in. “I know why your scared, but this time you don’t have to listen to them! Choose me Dad, please." 

Shanks eyes bugged out of his head, the speaker almost falling from his hand. He was glad to be alone as he shook, never had someone come close to the truth, but this kid, the one that had wormed his way into Shanks cold dead heart was implying he knew. "Anchor it's not that simple" His voice came out small, shaken at all the revelations that had been thrown his way.  

"You didn't tell them I ate the Nika Nika fruit, so just don't tell them you're training me." Luffy huffed urgently, desperate to get through, he knew he could do it, afterall he was Shanks weakness. "As for your promise to Gramps, leave him to me. There are a few things he also needs to hear before it's too late." 

Shanks put his head in his hands, defeated. "Give us two weeks, but Luffy I'm only coming to see for myself what's going on, I make no promises." 

Luffy grinned triumphantly, he knew that the older pirate would not be able to deny him anything face to face. "Great Shanks-san see you then!" 

Shanks hung up the Den Den conflicted, he had long since thought he had made his choice but the moment, he had laid eyes on the ball of joy that was Monkey D Luffy, his cold heart had begun to thaw. The word Pa leaving his boys lips had his heart craving, wishing for a family he could finally call his own, one that Shanks would give anything to protect.  

There was only one thing for it, he was going back to Dawn. 

Chapter Text

Shanks arrived on Foosha Village just as dawn was breaking on the island, his ship bathed in the morning light, was instantly identifiable on the dock. It didn’t take long for word to spread that the Red-Haired pirates had returned. Makino was on edge the moment the rumours reached her, what had caused her beloved to return? She rushed to the harbour, her hair still knotted with sleep, eager to see the man she missed dearly, while concern flowed through her as she wondered why he had come.  

Her pirate was tense as they disembarked their ship, his frayed nerves showing in his tight frame. Makino sighed in relief as she saw some of his tension ease when his eyes met her own. .  

"I thought you couldn't return." Makino greeted him joyously, running up the dock to meet him, her slender arms coming up to hold him close.  

"There are some things that apparently needed my attention." Shanks replied tensely as he collapsed into her hold, placing a loving kiss to the top of her head where it rested.  

"You and your cryptic ways." Makino sighed, her body melting at his touch.  

Shanks leaned back so she could see his trademark grin and wink. "Would you have me any other way?"  

Makino shook her head lovingly at the pirate, coming up on her toes to peck at his lips.  

Shanks returned her kiss, allowing himself to find comfort in his love for a moment, before forcing himself back to the task at hand. "I need to see Luffy. Where can I find him?"  

"Shanks if Garp found out..."  

"It's important Kino." Shanks urged gently, his hand stroking at her face lovingly, lowering her already weak walls. " You know me better than that, I wouldn't break a promise on a whim, now, would I?"  

Makino bit her lip, she had come to know her pirate, he was a morally integral man who held his promises as oaths. If he was here it was because of a reason, she had a vision of Luffy and his odd behaviour over the last few days, she had become concerned and if Shanks was here maybe she was right to be. "He's probably at his treehouse in the forest; would you like me to take you?"  

Shanks shook his head shocking the greenhaired girl with his urgency, as she startled he forced himself to soften. "It’s fine Kino, afterall I wouldn't make a good captain if I couldn't find a measly kid, would I?" He allowed his signature grin to fall into place, raising a hand to gently cusp his loves cheek, he turned to address his crew. "Men, finish docking up the ship, then please escort the lovely lady back to the bar, drinks are on me!"  

The men cheered at Shanks words, tying up the rigging as Shanks gave a swift kiss to Makino’s cheek and making his leave.  

Shanks picked his way through the forest, his observational haki spread out guiding him forward. He startled when he felt a strange haki reach out to stroke the edges of his own. The tentative mental touch tickled against Shanks senses, leaving a light impression guiding the pirate Captain forward into the depths of the forest, eagerly urging Shanks to follow.  

The Emperor startled, he knew only one person from the East Blue who had this kind of power, Garp. This wasn’t him he knew the tenor of Garps power, it was a rock hard force that barged through anything that stood in its way. This was warmer almost like the brightest sun shining down from the sky, a friendly buzzing with an undercurrent of pure excitement, but underneath there was an almost sadness that lingered deep within.  

Shanks followed cautiously ensuring he was prepared for ambush, despite the haki not setting off his skilled alarm bells he knew better then to give any advantages to the unknown.  

"You came!" an excited voice rang through the forest as a figure swung into view through the trees. Even with his guard up the figure managed to collide with the Captain who was thrown to the ground in his surprise, the figure tumbling with him. Even in his shock Shanks found himself instinctively protecting the boy as they rolled to the floor, his arm cradling him to his chest.  

"What the...? Luffy?" Shanks questioned looking over the familiar figure in his arm as they lay on the muddied floor.  

The boy grinned maniacally at the older pirate; bursting with joy to see someone who didn't remind him of death.  

"Sorry Shanks-San I've been practising with my haki since I got back, I wanted to impress you." Luffy grinned at his mentor, nuzzling into his flannel shirt.  

"Wait, what, Haki Luffy?" Shanks questioned in shock.  

"Yup, of course Shanks!" Luffy exclaimed his smile growing impossibly wide as the love and appreciation Luffy felt for his father flooded through him. "After all it is important for any new world pirate, especially the King of the Pirates."  

"New world pirate!?"  

"Don't be silly, Pa we already went over this remember, big war, lots of death, the future sucked so we are going to change it." Luffy pushed himself up from his Father, pacing as the pain of facing the truth of what had been flooded through him.  

"Change the future?" Shanks queried, his hand automatically reaching for his ever-present flask, itching for a drink as his heart broke at Luffy's expression.  

"It was your plan!" Luffy looked into Shank's eyes, his expression desperately imploring the red head to listen so he wouldn't have to repeat himself. "You told me I could use the one piece. That I could go back and change what happened. You told me you believed in me; you saved me so I could save everyone. Help me Shanks, believe in me once more to stop the stupid dragon people who think they run the world."  

"You're planning to stop the world government?" Shanks questioned, his brain clinging terrified to what the boy was saying.  

"If that's what it takes to save my Nakama!" Luffy nodded his eyes becoming like fire, an unstoppable force.  

"Luffy I'm sorry, I can't help you.."  

"Because you're a dragon" Luffy asked bluntly, barging through to the truth of the matter.  

Shanks spluttered his face as white as death.  

"It's okay Shanks." Luffy forced the elder pirate to meet his eyes. "Just because you are doesn't mean you have to do what they want. You are not like them! You've already lied about what happened to the devil fruit they wanted to protect me! You care Shanks, even when the worst had happened you still cared." Luffy implored looking into his father's eyes desperate, if he failed at this it would all be for nothing. "We both watched as everyone died. In the end pirates, the government and nobles all bleed the same. Countries burned for just for who was born there. This was one of the first to go! Before anyone knew to protect it, I don't know what happened to them, but you told me a piece of you died with it. In the end you could have killed me, I didn’t want to fight anymore, but, you helped me. Kept me alive when wanted to give up, you brought me back to life. Then you told me I can use the one piece, to change the ending." Luffy met Shanks eyes, tears glistening but not yet overflowing. "Regardless of what you were born as, you make your own choices, you can choose to be free." Luffy implored as a single tear running free down his small face, echoed by Shanks own.  

"I've never been free, Luffy" Shanks muttered the painful truth one he had spent years trying to drink away. "It's all an illusion."  

"Shanks, you can be." Luffy determined his natural grit shining through. "Gramps chose for me to be a marine, but I still became the king of the pirates, now I choose to save my Nakama, I choose you, and I hope you choose me?"  

Luffy held Shanks to him tightly imploring him to make the right choice, to break free of the shackles of his birthright. To finally put his chosen family above his blood relatives. Shanks stayed frozen in Luffy's grip, tears streaming from his eyes, this was it, the moment he had been running from. From the second Luffy had eaten that cursed fruit, he had to choose, between his son or the family, he had already stained his hands for.  

Shanks took a deep breath allowing the oxygen to clear his mind as well as his airways, in the end there had never been a real choice. Slowly reaching into his cloak he withdrew three cups and a coin. Gingerly he sat up against the forest floor, his hand brushing away the debris of twigs and leaves, creating a place for the cups. Slowly he reached out place the coin under the one in the middle.  

"You want to join my crew Luffy, the tell me, what cup is the coin in?" Shanks challenged, tears rolling down his cheeks.  

"The middle one." Luffy said meeting Shanks gaze with his own, a small smile breaking through on his face.  

Shanks turned the cup over revealing the coin underneath.  

"No tricks?" Luffy checked, knowing the words held more weight than it seemed, allowing Shanks a final out.  

"No tricks, Pirate king" He smiled even as his eyes continued to stream, relief filling him at finally being brave enough to choose the right thing.  

Luffy tackled Shanks into a hug, holding each other close on the forest floor, both lost in their thoughts.  

Luffy was so thankful he had broken through, that he could be sure this Shanks hand wouldn't become more stained with the blood of those he called friends. Shanks was apprehensively hopeful, he had never found the courage to say no to the demands of the Celestrial Dragons, but his son had made him throw all caution to the wind, he would make a great king.  

Luffy and Shanks slowly made their way to Party Bar, Luffy clinging to the older pirates' hand and yapping on a mile a minute, purposely giving Shanks a reprieve from his blackened thoughts. Neither were in a hurry to make it to their destination for they knew when they arrived, they would be facing the wrath of an angry Makino. Something neither pirate was looking forward to, although Luffy was still planning on having his fun.  

Shanks pulled Luffy aside as the bar appeared in their eyeline. "Now Luffy we must be careful how we approach this with Makino, okay? We need a plan."  

Luffy nodded briefly, before winking at the elder pirate, taking a deep breath and bellowing.  

"Makino, I finally found Shank’s coin, so now I'm going to sea with Shanks!" Luffy made sure to keep his tone purposely carefree and happy, laughing inside at Shanks shocked spluttering. "He said I could join his crew, but I’m not doing that because I'm going to be my own captain, and king of the pirates! Instead, I'm just going to let him teach me how to beat people up." Luffy grinned at the barmaid as he entered, his act perfectly innocent.  

Shanks followed behind gawking comically in the doorway, as the gathered Red-hair Pirates jaws fell open in shock, only Benn managed to maintain composure, simply puffing on his cigar, brow raise. Makino's face slowly turned from shock to a fiery anger.  

"Can the ridiculous, stupid, regrettably handsome pirate captain who keep stealing young children please meet me in the back for a little chat!" She snapped her finger nudging painfully into the said Captains chest with each word.  

"I don't keep stealing children." Shanks grumbled unhappily as he followed Makino who had steam coming out of her ears.  

"Once is an accident, two is a habit" Makino snarled at the man as the two disappeared in to her private stores.  

"Well now you've gone and done it kiddo" Benn grinned from his stool, casually stumping out what remained of his cigar before lighting another.  

"Oh well, Shanks can handle it." Luffy smiled hoping up on the empty stool next to Shanks first mate. He had to shake himself mentally as he saw a flash of future, Benn's body his throat bloodied from where it had been slashed, his mouth opening to reveal a fountain of thick blood. He reached for a carton of milk trying to distract his mind from darkened thoughts, act normal he commanded himself, it would all be for nothing if he couldn’t get a grip.  

"It's going to be so cool learning from some of the best pirates on the sea, I wonder if I can convince Ace to talk Whitebeard into giving me some lessons." Luffy rambled eagerly, desperately trying to act normal as he pulled the milk to him sucking down the contents loudly through a straw.  

"Whitebeard?" Ben queried thick eyebrow raising, curious where this child had learned the name.  

"Oops, Ace won't be there yet." Luffy groaned aloud. "Whitebeard? Never heard of him!" Luffy exclaimed unconvincingly whistling.  

Yassop laughed carefree, "lesson number one should be how to lie." He was looking forward to having the young shark bait on board, the kid was an endless barrel of laughs that made him ponder on his own child.  

"That is, of course, if the kid actually gets to come with us." Benn nodded towards the closed door where smashing could be heard behind.  

"Eh, Shanks has got this" Luffy grinned helping himself to some meat, determined to keep his hands busy lest they start shaking.  

"You've a lot of faith, I'm pretty sure that woman is the only person Shanks takes orders from." Roux laughed deeply, downing his drink in joy.  

"Not the only one." Luffy muttered for Benn's ears only, his eyes darkening. Before Benn could question it Luffy’s mood changed grinning brightly as he exclaimed loudly. "Shanks promised, he never breaks a promise"  

Benn looked calculating at the rubber boy, what did this boy know?  

Before Benn could push his curiosity Makino stormed from the room, shortly followed by a distressed looking Shanks.  

"I want this on record, I am very against this, and the first opportunity I have I will be telling Garp-san exactly where you are." Makino looked at Luffy in exasperation, her eyes begging him to change his mind.  

"Thanks Makino, you're the best, I was wondering how to get a message to Gramps." Luffy grinned brightly ignoring the woman's plight.  

"You sure this is wise?" Benn questioned glancing at his captain.  

"Nope, but we're doing this anyway." Shanks let a half smile come to his face directed at his second in command, before allowing it to fall away as he looked to Makino. "We'd best put some distance between us and the island if we want to get away before Garp learns we are here."  

"Do as you wish Shanks, you always do!" Makino snapped before turning her attention to the bar busying herself with cleaning glasses.  

Shanks sighed looking longingly towards his love before turning to his crew and instructing them to move out.  

Makino focused on cleaning the glass in her hand as the room emptied only pausing when she felt familiar rubber arms wrap around her.  

"I'm sorry Makino, but I need to get stronger, to be strong enough to protect everyone." Luffy said his voice small, he was upset that his actions had put a wedge between her and Shanks, but better she be angry then dead.  

"Luffy... I just want you to be safe." Makino sighed her hand coming up to pat the boy's hair.  

Luffy smiled sadly. "Thanks Makino, but I need you to be safe." He muttered, face smushed in her stomach. "Shanks will protect me, I promise."  

 Luffy stretched to plant a kiss on the woman's cheek, turning to leave before placing  a hand contemplatively on his ever-present straw hat. He sighed turned back to the bar matron. "Can you look after this for me till I get back? It's one of my treasures, so only the best can take care of it."  

"Oh Luffy, of course I'll take care of your treasure" Makino smile was wobblily as tears filled her eyes.  

"You're my treasure too Makino, so you need to stay safe, okay?"  

Makino was surprised to see how serious Luffy was, his eyes fixed to her own imploring her to agree. She nodded softly watching Luffy brighten at her agreement.  

"Hey Anchor! I thought you'd be running to the ship before captain changed his mind" The grinning face of Lucky Roux peered around the door.  

"Sorry, see you in three years Makino" Luffy grinned before shooting out of the bar embarking on a new adventure.  

Luffy was relieved to be back at sea after two weeks trapped on land. He had struggled with the itch of wrongness that he felt being chained to one place, the bone gripping fear that he wasn't working towards changing the future. The smell of the salty ocean greeting him every morning and the soft hum of the many creatures below soothed him through the sleepless nights. He was familiar with the Red Force having called it home while he recovered from the war. The hum of the ship allowed Luffy to feel freer than he had since the last time he had been in his father's arms, joy thrummed through him, he had struggled to feel real positive emotions since he lost it all, but here, finally on the right path with Shanks at his side he allowed himself to breath.  

It was strange to be under another captain's rule, but Luffy had no problem disregarding orders, much to the frustration of his acting Captain. Shanks treated Luffy as a cabin boy, expecting him to assist with the laborious tasks around the ship. He knew from his own experience it was the fastest way to ensure the boys muscles grew from the arduous chores, but every task given was somehow returned in a worse state. Swabbing the decks ended up with a slip and slide made from Roos supply of grease, which of course led to Shanks needing to fish Luffy from the sea.  

"I would have thought, Anchor, you would have gotten a bit wiser with age." Shanks groaned as he deposited a soaking Luffy on the deck, honestly how was this kid a fully grown adult in a child's body? He certainly couldn't find this adult anywhere.  

Luffy recklessly grinned up at Shanks even as the sea water sapped his energy. "Where's the fun in that?"  

"You asked me to train you but every time I give an order you do what you want." Shanks pulled at his hair, exasperated by the unruly child he had seemingly adopted. “How the hell did your crew put up with you?”  

"Nami had a mean slap. Come on Pa, chores are boring. I came here to train, let's spar." Luffy clenched his fists, frustrated at the lack of action.  

Shanks shook his head concerned, the constant pressure to spar pressed against Shank's frayed nerves. He had thrown caution to the wind for this young boy, but he still didn't trust himself to draw a weapon against him, unsure if he would be able to fight the monster that laid dormant within. No matter if Luffy was king of the pirates, in his current state he was nothing but a child, so easily Shanks could end his journey, fulfil his birth right... he shook his head dispelling the dark thoughts.  

"I'm not sparring with you Anchor, not until you are ready, but... tell you what... Monster!" Shanks shouted to the monkey softly playing music in the rigging. "Give the kid what he deserves" Shanks settled back against the mast ready to enjoy the show.  

"Finally!" Luffy grinned shaking off the sea water, ready to face his opponent.  

He had barely finished drying as he felt a tingle in his Haki and a jolt to the chest. As he flew, he caught sight of the grinning Monster, casually posing where Luffy once stood. Recovering quickly Luffy extended his arms to the sail, using the momentum to push himself forward he swung himself towards the monkey. Misjudging his distance, he sailed straight over the small figures head until Monster reached out and pulled him crashing to the floor. Grinning at his prey Monster jumped on the rubber boy hammering him with a barrage of punches. It did not hurt Luffy's rubber body, but the speed was frustratingly hard to keep up with. After several moments of taking punch after punch Luffy's patience was wearing thin.  

"Enough already!" Luffy shouted frustrated, sending out a wave of conquers Haki which left him feeling weak but had the effect of stopping monster in his tracks. Knowing his weaker younger body was about to fail him Luffy knew he had to end the fight quickly, drawing on what was left of his strength Luffy reached behind him.  

"Gum gum, Bazooka." Luffy's shot hit true, launching Monster off the Red Force and into the sea.  

Luffy turned to hear clapping behind him turning to see Shanks stood grinning at him.  

The rest of the crew who had gathered around to watch looked on in shock and awe finally seeing the boy their young friend had become.  

"Good" Shanks noted, stilling his hands, Luffy grinned happily at his mentor. "But not good enough."  

Luffy jaw dropped as he screamed "what" along with the rest of Shanks crew minus Ben who nodded in agreement with Shanks.  

"You only managed to win because you surprised Monster with conqueror's Haki, had it been many of other members of the crew or many other new world pirates they would be able to shrug it off. You cannot rely on that."  

Luffy deflated, thinking over all the times Conquerors Haki had failed him Luffy nodded solemnly. Shanks was right, Luffy would probably lose to the weakest of new world pirates in this state, his limbs alien and sluggish, his gear forms unattainable to him, haki leaving him severely tired. Luffy wasn't even sure if gear 5 would ever become available to him again, having not felt even the smallest hint of his power since the war ended.  

Seeing the boy slumped in defeat Shanks walked close, putting a gentle hand on Luffy's head Shanks lowered his tone for his ears only. "You need to get used to your body, your brain isn't yet used to being smaller and it shows. Chores help the muscles grow, help you to adjust to your reduced size. If you put the effort in with chores then I will ensure one of the crew spars with you daily, but they will not go easy on you, and you will lose often."  

Luffy nodded, reluctantly understanding Shanks methods for the first time.  

"Good, now set the sails, we need to go pick up a lost crew mate.” He laughed joyously.  

Shanks was hopeful he had finally gotten through to Luffy, but when he looked down, he couldn't help spluttering seeing that his boy had fallen asleep. His heart skipped a beat at the sight, removing his coat and placing it on his small form. He wouldn't risk moving him when this was the first time the boy had rested since they had got on board.  

He shuddered as he realized how traumatising the future had been, for it to break the unstoppable force that was Luffy. No matter how much the kid tried to hide it Shanks could see a familiar darkness clinging to his chosen charge. Shanks had eventually turned to booze to sooth the demons that roared in his soul, but it seemed Luffy was trying to battle them head on, braver than he had ever been.  

Shanks sighed resigned as he ordered the crew to prepare to sail, he caught Ben's sharp eyes as he turned towards the captains' quarters, Shanks slowly following behind.  

'Great' he thought to himself 'time for this chat.'  

"I need a drink for this." Shanks groaned reaching for the bottle of rum he kept on his desk. He took a big swig before placing the bottle down and looking at Benn. "Okay, let's do this."  

Benn looked contemplatively at his Captain before addressing him in a curious tone. "We're training the kid?" he queried. Shanks nodded his ascent. "The kid who ate the devil fruit the government asked us to find?" Shanks again nodded his eyes dark with nerves. "The one who you lied to them about, risking all our lives to protect?" Shanks eyes dropped guiltily, gulping against the iron that had lodged itself in his throat, but he nodded all the same. Benn voice changed growing warmer with pity for his captain. "The kid you have already given an arm to protect? Are you sure about this captain?"  

Shanks took a moment considering the question. The first time he had met Luffy he already knew he was trouble, the grandson of a famous vice admiral, carrying the will of D, with the twin spirit of a captain Shanks had once known.  

It had been easy to fall for the kid his beloved had all but adopted, his cheeky nature and overwhelming joy at everything. A determination that had brought the ire of mountain bandits, a problem that had cost Shanks an arm, a price Shanks paid without thought. In the end no cost was too high for his kid.  

Shanks looked up a fire in his eyes that Benn rarely saw but always spelled trouble. "I'm sure!"  

The two pirates looked at each other. Shanks willing Benn to understand, while Benn was testing his captains resolve. Finding that Shanks was confident in his decision Benn nodded. "Well, I for one am glad you've finally found the will to turn down the blasted Government, but I am not looking forward to when Garp tracks us down and be sure he will."  

"I know, apparently the kids got it." Shanks laughed Benn's acceptance making him feel light.  

"He's different Shanks, something's changed." Benn noted. "He acts happy and carefree but there are times when I catch the storm in his eyes, and this is the first time I've seen him sleep since he stepped on board."  

Shanks swirled his drink contemplatively, his short-lived joy fleeing at the thought. "I know Benn, I would do anything to ease his pain but all we can do is prepare him for the future."  

It was a week before they made land at Shanks private retreat island, tucked away in the depths of the New World, it had proven to be an interesting voyage.  

Luffy seemed to take Shanks words to heart throwing himself in to his chores with gusto, practised in the inner running of a ship, something that added more questions to Benn's ever-growing list. Shanks had tasked Yassop with a task of trying to shoot Luffy with projectiles as he worked, helping the boy strengthen his observational Haki.  

The boy had also taken part in many spars where Luffy quickly reacquainted himself with the taste of loss. Shanks' crews' talents far exceeding Luffy's own, and he quickly reaffirmed that it had only been Monsters own underestimation of Luffy's skill that had won him the battle.  

Worryingly Luffy seemed to be continuing to avoid sleep, instead, waiting for the exhaustion to drag him under into unconsciousness after days of sleepless nights, something that went unnoticed by everyone except Shanks and Benn who were helpless to assist with the boy's issue. The one time they had forced Luffy to rest had ended in a violent wakeup call in the form of a burst of conquerors Haki that almost put Shank's own to shame, and a trail of red scratches down Luffy's face as he had tried to claw his way from his nightmare. It had forced them to ease up, reluctantly allowing Luffy to keep his unhealthy habits.  

Word quickly reached the crew that Vice Admiral Garp was quickly heading towards the New World, Luffy had grinned a dark menacing smile upon hearing the news 'good' he muttered, 'this time I'll make him listen'.  

Luffy had a difficult relationship to Garp, he knew the man loved his grandchildren, but he had still chosen the marines at every turn. Even after Dawn Island was burned Garp wore his uniform in apparent pride. Long ago Luffy had lost respect for the man who clung to his ideals even as the world realised those in charge were more dangerous than the pirates that had lost their lives trying to protect them. Shanks had told Luffy once that the more you gave up for your beliefs the harder it was to admit you were wrong. Luffy hoped that this time around he could pull his Grandfather out of the world governments grip.  

They had arrived at Shanks’ hidden cove a week before Garp caught up to them. Coming across the peaceful island he made his entrance known, throwing a cannon ball in greeting to the pirate's home. Luffy who had be sparing with Roo reacted first, inhaling and blowing his body up to return the flying projectile from where it came.  

"Nice try Gramps!" Luffy screamed to the ship, his frustration and anger seeping through. "but you'll have to do better than that this time!"  

Garp punched the ball shredding it to pieces with his iron fist.  

"You good for nothing brat, get on this ship while I show that Grandson stealing pirate why he shouldn't break promises!"  

Luffy's eyes darkened, throwing his words like daggers to his Grandfather. "You'd know all about breaking promises old man."  

Garp paused in his ire taking in the image of his grandson on the beach, the shadows covering his face made him look older, darker, the unmistakable fog of conquerors Haki flowing from him.  

Something was deeply wrong.  

Luffy stepped forward into the light, his face thunderous, his eyes sunk with dark circles around them, looking twice his age as rage thundered through his small frame. "You made promises, didn't you Gramps. To protect his son... and you failed."  

"Failed?" Garp spluttered, shocked. He had no idea what had happened but that was not his good-natured grandson standing on that island. His anger almost reminded him of younger, angrier Ace before Luffy had soothed the sharp edges. "It's not my fault you good for nothing kids are set on being pirates!"  

"No." Luffy accepted, before his tone darkened. "But it was your fault that Ace died. You stood there as they held him on that platform. You, were close enough to stop it, but you didn't, instead you left it to me to free him and you stood by as I failed." Luffy's voice was choked with emotion, barely understandable as his words fell like vomit. He could not see the confused crowd gathering around as tears flooded his face. "I was too weak, I've always been too weak, but you were strong, you could have stopped it!"  

Garp gaped at the boy breaking down on the beach in front of him.  

"Ace always needed to protect me; the one time I thought I could save him he died for me." Luffy wiped the tears from his eyes, strengthening his stance and reaching inside. The determination thumping through him to make it hurt gave him the strength to access gear two. "Then you stood by as the world burned, you always told me marines saved people, but all I saw was them tear the world apart." Luffy scoffed a bitter laugh.  

"What!?" Garp spluttered, he had always known when his grandson was lying, but all he could feel was the brutal honesty in every word.  

"Don't talk about broken promises Grandpa, cause you are the worst. Now fight me!" Luffy screamed, allowing his anger to take control.  

"Luffy...I..." Garp began confused.  

"I said Fight Me!" Luffy used his legs to spring himself towards his grandfather his fist raised.  

Instinct took over as Garp raised his arm grabbing Luffy by the head stopping his attack.  

"It won't be that easy!" Luffy cried as he extended his arms back covering them in Haki, he forced them forward launching his grandfather into the mast of the ship which cracked on impact.  

Luffy planted his feet on the marine's ship looking around he could see the marines frozen in shock looking at the scene before them. Anger flowed out of him as his Haki roared knocking out the gathered marines.  

Garp got to his feet brushing the debris from his coat, as he pushed away his grandsons impressive Conquerors. "That was a good shot kid, I hope you know what you're asking for." Garp raised his fist before launching it at his grandson sending him flying back to the island. Without pausing he jumped after him using his arm to trap the wriggling boy to the sand.  

Luffy struggled aimlessly his eyes wild and fists gripping at the loose sand below him. As he struggled, he could feel his strength waning, gear two and haki having drained all the energy he had. His muscle felt heavy and strained, unmovable. Luffy felt the desperation, he couldn't lift a finger, he had failed, again. Why did he always fail? Was this his destiny?  

"I'm not strong enough." He sobbed. "I need to be stronger; I need to save them all. I can see them all every time I close my eyes; Ace, Sabo, Traffy, Zoro, Sanji, Nami, Brook, Vivi, Chopper, Frankie, Jimbe, Usopp, Robin. I'm sorry, I am so sorry" Luffy's voice was broken with pain the names tumbling out like a mantra.  

"Enough!" Shanks' voice cut through, carrying the power of conquerors Haki, forcing itself upon Garp.  

The shock of everything going on caused Garp to loosen his grip.  

"What the fuck is going on?" Garp demanded looking from his grandson to the older pirate.  

"Let's find somewhere more private and I'll explain." Shanks was serious, something Garp had never seen from the blasted boy, his strides long and certain, as he made his way to the sobbing mess on the sand. When he reached him, he bent down, "Anchor, I'm going to pick you up is that okay?"  

"Pa?" Luffy's voice was small, desperate. "Help me Dad, I failed."  

"It's okay I've got you kid." Shanks placed his arm under the boy holding him securely as he lifted him up. "You want answers, follow me." He addressed Garp leading the way to his private abode.  

When he got there, he lowered the boy onto a seat before preparing three glasses and filling then with Amber liquid. Handing one to Garp who stood in just inside the door he took the other to the young boy hoping the shock of alcohol would rouse the boy from his trauma.  

"Anchor, here drink this." Luffy looked on unresponsive. Shanks sighed raising the glass to the boys lips helping him drink the rum down.  

Once satisfied Luffy was back with them Shanks took a seat, gesturing Garp to another.  

"I don't need a bloody seat; I need to know what the fuck is going on." Garp growled.  

"Time travel" Shanks bluntly stated looking Garp in the eye.  

Garp looked shocked momentarily before he groaned "Fuck" he muttered before nodding, downing his drink and taking a seat.  

"The one piece." Garp stated, oddly, knowingly. Shanks allowed shock to colour his face. "Did you think I didn't talk to Roger before he died?" Garp raised an eyebrow.  

"Sure, between questioning him where the rest of his crew was and gloating about how he was going to die, I didn’t think you'd discuss the one piece." Shanks sarcastically bit, hypocritically annoyed at the part Garp had played in Rodger's capture.  

Garp laughed sharply. "Roger was an interesting person, if he'd have chosen differently, I'm sure we would have been friends. We were more alike than most would think; a pirate and a marine, two sides of the same coin, both trying for a better future." Garp met Shanks gaze sharply. "Roger told me lots of secrets, including an interesting one about a celestial dragon who grew up a pirate. I could tell, deep down he never was sure which side that one would fall on."  

"Stop Gramps." Luffy's voice was tight, thick with emotions. "Pa is good, if it had been up to me, I'd be dead, he gave me hope."  

A heavy silence flooded the room at the admittance, it hurt to know that the boy had contemplated his own death.  

"Luffy..." Shanks reached out to touch his son desperate.  

"It’s true" Luffy admitted hanging his head, his eyes burning with an endless passion. "But you were there, you may not remember but I do. The dragons were alive, you could have gone to them, chose them. I wanted it to end, begged you to do it more times than I can count, you could have gone to them a hero. Instead, you stayed with me, you took me to your ship, nursed me to health, reminded me how to feel, gave me reason to live. You did that, you saved me, and I won't let the man who put them first question you." Luffy's voice grew stronger as he spoke, Shanks met Luffy's eyes his own filling with tears as he realised the depths of emotion the boy held for him. He reiterated his promise to himself, Luffy was his son, and no one would stand in the way of his boy reaching his dream.  

Garp however was stuck in his own personal hell, his grandson was telling him he felt betrayed, that he trusted a Celestial dragon in pirates clothing over his own grandfather. "I wouldn't.." he began desperate to prove himself.  

"But you would, when Ace was arrested you stood at the platform awaiting his execution, when he burned you were there, but you didn't fight, you wore the uniform of his murderer." Luffy spat his words like venom.  

"If you two had just become Marines..."  

"They would have killed us the minute they found out about our blood." Luffy screamed. "Do you really think the government would let the sons of Roger and Dragon run free?"  

He noticed Shanks blinking wildly at the revelation, but the red head didn’t dare interrupt.  

"I could have protected you." Garp growled defensively.  

Luffy deflated, his anger leaving him as he realised the truth Garp cared, but he didn't realise his care was hurting them.  

"No, you really couldn't. The world is broken but it doesn't have to be, we can change it." Luffy looked his grandfather in the eyes. "Help me change it. I can't do this alone. Please Gramps!"  

Garp looked at his grandson, seeing another Monkey D years ago begging him to help change the world, he had always thought he was doing the right thing, ensuring justice prevailed but maybe he had been wrong. Looking into the tired eyes of his grandson, he hated how broken the boy looked and would do anything to help fix it. Taking a deep breath Garp finally nodded.  

Chapter Text

Luffy's breath came out in hot puffs through parched lips, as he ran through the island avoiding the traps laid by Shank's crew. It had been three years of almost constant training, honing the the boys skills and hardening his body for what was to come.

His observational Haki was pinging around - forewarning him of any dangers, while his armament haki kept his legs empowered, pushing him to move forward, faster than the average brain could process. Catching a glance one of his assailants through the trees Luffy quickly sent a tidal wave of power, with just a flick of his finger the trees fell forcing his target out to the open.

Yassop gulped knowingly preparing himself for what was to come as Luffy turned his sights on him. In the time they had trained Luffy he had become a near impossible foe, bested by only Benn and the Captain himself. The older sniper barely had time to raise his gun before Luffy was on him, fists raining down in an almost unbearable barrage of pain that didn't relent until Yassop faded into unconsciousness, his last thought as he faded was that he would be feeling the effects for weeks to come.

The moment Luffy felt Yassop consciousness slip he sprung up, heading to the coast. At the start of his journey it had been hard to get over his internal fear of harming friends, worried his fragile mind would snap and he would cause unintended pain to his allies, but he had moved forward with time, safe in the knowledge he was in control, not the demons that laid dormant in his mind.  Shanks had been his main ally in jumping the mental hurdles in his mind, the Red Haired pirate had lived with guilt and knew what it was to fight your own mind, he was always happy to listen to his son's fears to help him find ways to quiet the darkness. Benn had also been a helpful soundboard, he had been told the truth shortly into Luffy's stay - of course the intelligent first mate had already worked out most of the pieces himself.  

Luffy rose taking a moment to calm his breathing, to ensure he could continue to move forward silently. As he took flight once more Luffy still had to dodge projectiles from above and traps from below, he could sense lifeforms around him lying in wait for him to slip up but Luffy gave them no edge. Tumbling onto the seafront Luffy paused to prepare for the last leg, he knew what was to come and it would be the cultivation of all his time here, the ultimate test.

As his breath puffed around him his haki flagged just in time for him to roll to avoid a slash of air coming toward him.

A joyful laugh came from the forest behind, 'Damn' thought Luffy he hadn't felt the presence approaching but now it was to late, he was within range.

"Did you think we'd make it easy kiddo?" Benn chuckled lowly, his arm raised out, stance strong, the gun in his hand cocked.

"Well kid, you almost made it, but game over." Shanks laughed his posture relaxed, Gryphon held loosely in his hand, he walked forward from the seafront, steps sure.

Luffy huffed frustrated that he had been cornered, he could see his target in the distance, the sails unfurled ready to leave, it was too close for him to fail now, he could do this, he had to.

He raised his fist sending a powerful blast of haki to his left while dodging to the right hoping to buy a moment to escape, unfortunately neither had fallen for his trick. A seastone bullet lodged itself into his shoulder as a black blade blocked his path. Luffy barely felt the sting of his shoulder bursting open, it was a clean shot, he could however feel the energy draining from him as Shanks smirked, "That's game Anchor."

Luffy dropped to his knees grumbling in defeat as Shanks withdrew his sword returning it to his holster. The second Shanks looked away Luffy smirked, whispering under his breath, "Now."

The creatures of the island began to stampede out in all directions throwing Benn off his feet and breaking line of sight with the rubber boy. Luffy grinned wasting no time he threw his uninjured arm skyward to an awaiting bird. Once the animals cleared Shanks and Benn looked up to see the boy flying on a birds back towards the awaiting ship.

"Thanks for everything Shanks-San, see you at laugh tale!" The boy called out waiving his arm frantically, his grin was bright and alive standing out on his worn and tired face. He was glad to have done it, to clutch a victory from the claws of defeat. He would miss his father figure, the only one who understood Luffy's pain of loss, who had been with him for the beginning and the end, even if this version didn't remember the end. It would be a while before they would be together again but Luffy knew Shanks would always be on his side till the end of the line. 

Shanks looked at the boy as he left, tears slowly falling down his face, he was impressed his boy had managed to escape their clutches, the final test passed, but that also meant it was time to say goodbye, for Shanks to stand in the sidelines while Luffy rushed off to his destiny. Forcing a smile to his face he called out; "Till then Luffy, next time I see you be ready to actually defeat me!" Luffy nodded solemnly, they both knew nothing but the best would suffice to save the world.

"You sure he's ready?" Benn asked quietly looking to the sky.

"He will be, we've prepared him as much as we can, the rest lays in his hands." Shanks paused lost in his thoughts silently sending a prayer into the universe, protect his son.

After a moment of silence the red head grinned over at his first mate. "Benn he managed to escape us, there's nothing that can hold him down, this is a cause for a celebration."

"Only because he cheated." Benn grumbled acting the part of a frustrated pirate sore at being bested.

"We're pirates, we always cheat!" Shanks laughed jovially. "Now where is the booze!" He clapped his hand on his mates shoulder, leading them both away from the shore. 

It had been a hard three years full of highs and lows, but every smile on the rubber boys face made it worth it, Shanks would hold that with him as he awaited the time he could once more hold his son in his arms. 

Luffy jumped smoothly off of the bird and onto the small sloop that awaited him below.

"You're bleeding" Garp huffed, throwing a glance his grandsons way, he committed each bruise and scrape to memory, would ensure to pay that damned pirate each one back in kind.

He was concerned at Luffy's eyes, the dark circles had become a permanent feature on his too young face. In his weekly phone calls with Shanks he had been informed that he had found a way of helping Luffy through the sleepless nights, holding the rubber boy through the night seemed to chase away the terrors of the future, but the stubborn idiot had declined to allow this often, stubbornly exclaiming he couldn't become reliant on others to help, that he had to learn to cope alone.  

"It's just a small scratch, but I made it." Luffy grinned, proud at his victory and what it meant for the future.

"Not good enough!" Garp lightly slapped the back of the grinning boys head. "Now sit still while I dig that bullet out."

Luffy sat down allowing his brain to switch off, barely wincing as Garp applied his less then gentle first aid. "It'll scar" Garp advised finishing his stitching.

"That's okay, the best pirates have the coolest scars" Luffy stated, his voice was detached his focus obviously elsewhere, another feature this Luffy had returned to him with, a uncanny ability to dissociate from reality. 

"Terrific" Garp grumbled bitterly, as he placed a hand on Luffy's head grounding him to the moment. It took a moment but Garp removed his hand as he saw his Grandson blink owlishly coming back down to reality. 

"Sorry" Luffy smiled guiltily, he knew it worried his family when he went away.

Garp nodded sharply accepting his grandsons words.

Glancing around and allowing his haki to observe the ship around Luffy noted that they were alone. "Where's the crew?" he asked curiously, he knew Garp had hand picked his marines, trusted them impeccably. 

"We are the crew, I took a vacation" Garp barked a laugh. "Now time to set sail, show me your skills pirate." The last word was said with a glint in Garps eyes, three years and he had finally accepted who his grandson's were, who they would always be. 

Luffy nodded rushing to help set sail. He ignored the pull on his shoulder as he moved, he was afterall long used to pain.

Garp watched the boy as he worked, he had visited several times over the past three years lending his brand of support to Luffy's training. Garp was angry at the world watching how the wounds of the future scared his young grandson, the bags under his eyes making him look older than his 17 years, the casual scars he had picked up while training that he bore without complaint. When his chosen trainers had attempted to hold back, to ensure he remained safe the boy had thrown a fit, shouting that he needed to get stronger, to ensure everyone survived, it was their responsibility to prepare him for what was to come, he would not accept anything but their best.

Even throughout all the hardships Luffy had somehow maintained his jovial exterior able to keep smiling through the pain.

Garp knew they had done all they could to give Luffy a better start but he couldn't help but think he was delivering his grandson to slaughter.

"Oh man, I can't believe three years has gone by already! I can't wait to pick up my Nakama and start our journey." Luffy grinned hanging from the mast, the feeling of the ship moving and the sea air making him feel free in a way land never could. 

"Your sure this is what you want?" Garp asked voice gruff with barely contained emotion. 

"We've been through this Gramps, I'm the king of the pirates, I can't be anything else." Luffy grumbled climbing down from his perch to meet his grandfathers gaze.

Garp looked over his grandson thoughtfully, no matter what became of this future he would stand by his family, he would continue to wear the uniform of the marines but underneath was the heart of a Monkey D, something that he would die to defend. When he had first grappled with the truth of what became of his family he had felt shame, he couldn't understand how the man who had risked everything to hide the sons of Gol D Rodger and Monkey D Dragon had served them up on a platter. No matter if they had decided to become pirates he had always thought he would lay down his life to ensure their safety, to keep his promises, when had a uniform become more important than his family? 

Luffy had held such pain and contempt for his Grandfather for a long time after he returned, unable to separate this version of Garp to the future. With time they had been able to mend bridges and have a honest bond, but they would never be as close as Luffy and Shanks, something Garp would have to live with. He had driven his Grandson away a long time ago, his refusal to accept the boy for who he was had already cause a rift that time could not heal. All he could do now was try to ensure Luffy achieved his dreams. 

"Okay then, let's get you back to Dawn Island."

Luffy grinned "Forward to the future!" He pointed forward his excitement palpable.

When they arrived at the island it was with a heavy heart, watching Luffy charge toward a future that had once ended in flames, delivering the rubber boy to his destiny like a sheep to slaughter. Garp knew he had a part to play in ensuring change, but it still went against everything he had once believed in to turn his back on his ideals. He hadn't been able to do it for his son but for his grandsons he would sacrifice everything. They were the future Garp believed in, the ones' who would bang the drums of change. It was Garps role to ensure that a different more fair marines would rise from the ashes.

Luffy excitement was palpable, as ready as he had ever been, charging fearlessly towards liberation. "Remember pops, you need to stick around for a while, I'm sending you a gift, one I think you'll like." Luffy grinned knowingly, wrapping his arms around his Grandfather's waist.

Garp leaned into the touch, momentarily basking in the moment. Thankful that no matter what he had done he was still allowed these moments of affection that still felt unearned.  

"Yeah, yeah, bloody kids telling me what to do!" Garp groaned, acting his part. He forced his tears to retreat, he would not ruin this moment by being sappy. "Be good Luffy, and if you get your ass kicked after all the effort we went to I'll pound you twice as hard." Garp raised his fist of justice to sky, the effect slightly ruined by the gentle shake as his emotions overwhelmed him. Reaching for his pocket he pulled a white Den Den Mushi from its depths "Here take this, and let me know if you need anything." Garps eyes were serious, a promise, no matter what he would come if the boy asked. "I guess I should tell you, I also gave one to the Grandson stealing Shanks. If you need anything at all call us." 

Luffy blinked away tears, the sincerity rarely heard from his grandfather coupled with the personal sacrifice it must have taken to actually give Shanks a tether to tie him to Luffy as he travelled. "Thank you Gramps, I'll be seeing you soon!" Luffy promised. 

Once he was back at Dawn Island Luffy rushed to reclaim his hat from a tearful Makino, Luffy stayed long enough to prove he was okay and that Shanks hadn't led him to his death like she had feared, embellishing how great life had been at sea, laying the groundwork to convince his mother figure to finally make the plunge to join her beloved on the sea's, after all he informed her once he set sail there was nothing left to hold her to the village. 

With his hat secure on his head Luffy began his work, building a small rowboat, one that would lead him to his destiny. He made sure to grab a barrel from Makino's bar, after all that was the most important part of his first 'pirate ship.'

It wasn't much but he wouldn't want his journey to begin any other way.

He spent time with Dadan, subtly trying to convince the old bat that a life at sea would suite the mountain bandits more than a life on land, using himself and Ace as bargaining tools, after all it would be sometime before they would be able to return to the East Blue but if Dadan was also at sea then she may run into her kids. Dadan had of course spluttered 'why would I want to seek out you stupid kids when I'm finally getting rid of you.' But Luffy knew better, the woman would be lost without them, he could only hope that it would be enough to bring the bandit out of her comfort zone and away from Dawn Island. The rubber boy had no intention of allowing the future to repeat itself, but he would feel better if the Nakama he left behind weren't easy stationary targets for the world government.  

As he waved goodbye to the island, happy tears in his eyes, finally back to the start of his adventure he screamed out. "Zoro, Nami, Ussop, Sanji, Chopper, Robin, Frank, Brook and Jimbe, I'm coming for you and this time we will make all our dreams come true."

It took one look to the Sea King who was awaiting him before the creature was turning tail and rushing out to sea in the opposite direction. He had thought about punching the creature, payback for Shanks and the arm he lost to the beast, but in the end that had been the catalyst for Shanks realisation he would give up everything for his son. 

Luffy smiled as his boat began to give way, climbing without reservation into the barrel that would lead him to his first challenger as an official captain.

Sitting in the darkness of the barrel as it bobbed along the sea Luffy mentally prepared himself, he had to be ready, this was his last chance, he would find his Nakama and save them. Luffy reminded himself in order to let them become the people he loved he would have to let events mostly play out as they originally happened. A thick weight was placed within his chest, it was a painful fact that these were not the same people he lost, that they never would be but Luffy would give anything to save a version of them, he reminded himself of all the trials and tribulations they had endured, the moments they had fought through to come back stronger. The rubber boy knew he couldn't recklessly charge in changing everything, that his crew had found themselves in their despair, that they were a crew built to survive and grow through pain. It would be an impossible task to allow their pain, but it was one that he must undertake, he couldn't and wouldn't take their growth from them, he could restrain himself, for them. 

He didn't know how long he had spent curled up in the barrel the first time around, as he had mostly managed to sleep through it, this time he sat lost in his thoughts. Going over and over his memories from this time, ensuring he knew the path he needed to take. As he thought he allowed his haki to expand, feeling out to the ocean and its inhabitants around him, relishing in the life he could feel. He hoped to never again feel the stillness of a decimated battlefield.

He paused, honing in on a familiar presence that tingled into his field. It was dimmer then he had felt before, cloaked in a aura of desperation and deception, something that soured his mind softly, it felt wrong. He had basked in this aura for years, but it should be free and full of determination, okay sometimes the deception would still seek through but not this thick, heavy deception, this version of it felt wrong. 

Luffy ran through his memories once more, why was she here? It was too early, Luffy wasn't ready he hadn't prepared. 

As panic gripped his heart in its cold vice Luffy felt the barrel being hefted on to a ship. Luffy knew Nami was here, he could pinpoint her exact location on this ship picking her out of a crowd of hundreds, the Nakama who had suffered the most earliest in the journey within reach before her time.

Luffy gripped his arms tightly, causing crescent shape wounds to appear from his nails, he was unsure if he wanted to curl up into a ball and fall apart at the memories of the end of the last flare Nami sent his way, not one of fear but one of appreciation and love, even as she died too young in her last moment she had thought to send a last message to her captain, to ensure his last memory of her wouldn't be tainted with fear, brave to the very end. His body vibrated against his will, his internal war of fighting through his small frame, a part of him wanted to throw caution to the wind, escape to the confines of the barrell and rush to his navigators side, that part almost won when a jolt of fear spread through Nami's aura, it was only the following feeling of determination from her that kept Luffy on his path. He knew Nami had suffered in these seas but this was also where she learned her might, how much she could survive, the power to ask for help and trust others. He reminded himself, this Nami would write him off even if he hand delivered Arlong's head on a plate, no he had to let her endure and learn. 

His barrel rolled around the ship as Luffy continued his internal battle, his entire concentration on Nami, tracking her as she moved around Alvida's ship, of course his sneaky thief would be on a heist during a hold up. He was satisfied that she was safe, feeling her preen in victory as she stumbled on what Luffy assumed was some form of treasure.

Luffy was jolted back to his own reality by the sound Koby's voice talking to some of Alvida's crew, listening to the conversation Luffy couldn't help smiling to himself, he forgot what a spineless worm the Marine captain had once been. Pulling his haki inwards, ensuring he remained in this moment, he curled his legs up under him, timing it perfectly as he pounced from the barrel with a scream, his fist exploding into a pirates face.

"Wow, I thought that journey would never end!" Luffy exclaimed looking around the room. He reminded himself to act nonchalant, carefree, and oblivious. "hmm.. who are you?" Luffy addressed the stunned pirates, head cocked to the side, he calculated the situation, eyes narrowed as he was faced with Coby's shaking figure. These people had hurt his friend, plan thrown out the window Luffy's temper snapped, his eyes tight. "You should join your friend and get some sleep, if you know what's good for you."

"Who the hell are you to talk to us like that?" one of the pirates exclaimed putting his sword forward.

Luffy ignored him in favour of addressing the still shaking Koby, in the barrel he had found it amusing that Coby had been so fearful, but faced with the reality of his future friend, growing up a slave to these so called pirates, a child abused by adults, forced to do manual labour till he dropped, his friend who had died a hero standing up against the corrupt marines, begging them to see reason to help save the innocents, cut down in his prime for having the guts to say no, to see him so afraid shaking and crying, it snapped something inside Luffy's brain. A strong blast of Haki escaped Luffy, knocking the pirates out cold a stream of blood running from there nose's. The sight of blood brought Luffy back to reality, fuck, first challenge and he had failed. He could fix this. Determined Luffy forced his face into a grin, allowed his eyes to soften, looking the part of a innocent bystander who didn't know what was going on. 

"Hey you!" He looked at Koby who was cowering in front of him. Luffy thanked his lucky stars that his Haki had remained contained, Koby would have no way to sense it in his current state. "You got any food?"

As Koby risked looking up seeing the straw hated boy who had sat in front of him, casually picking at his nose. "Are...are they dead?" he whimpered in fear.

"Nope, they are just sleeping." Luffy shrugged a innocent grin on his face. "They must be tired falling asleep like that, anywho... food, you got any?"

"W...who are you?" Koby asked voice shaking.

"Oh I'm Monkey D. Luffy and I'm going to be king of the pirates!" Luffy exclaimed proudly.

"K..k..king of the pirates." Koby questioned whimpering even more, part of Luffy wanted to roll his eyes at the boy in front of him, he may have been angry at the pirates who had done this to his friend and knew the strong person Coby would become, but this kids fear sure was annoying.

"Yup, you know your quite a scaredy cat aren't you?" Luffy bit out laughing at the boys expense.  

"You should be scared to there is a hundred pirates on deck and Alvida will kill you for knocking out her crew!" Koby shouted terrified.

"Cool, I could do with a warm up. Being stuck in that barrel has me feeling tight." Luffy cheered rolling his shoulders.

As Luffy started to leave, hoping that a change of scenery would snap Koby from his consuming fear. As he left Koby tried to hold him back to no success, it made Luffy's smile more genuine, of course even here at Koby's lowest he would put up a fight to save an innocent, even if that innocent was claiming to be the next king of the pirates.

As they left the room entering the next Luffy looked around, looking for something to use as a fake distraction, he wanted to allow Koby the opportunity to organise his thoughts, seeing some apples Luffy happily began munching down, acting consumed by the act of eating he watched Koby from the corner of his eye. The boy was staring at him, watching him eat his face flitting between fear and curiousity.

As Luffy ate Koby pondered his choices; this boy had some skill being able to knock out at least one of Alvida's men, and Koby somehow did not buy that the other two had just 'fallen asleep'. He seemed friendly enough but had also declared he would be king of the pirates, and seemed eager to fight.

"So, what's your name?" Luffy asked around mouthfuls of apple, he had hoped that Koby would approach a conversation himself, but quickly realised he may need some prompting.

"K..k...koby." Coby stuttered out, Luffy nodded happy at receiving a response. 

"So Koby, is this a pirate ship?" Luffy prompted again, anything to get Koby to open up, unfortunately hard as he tried Luffy could not remember everything about this encounter, to be honest the only things he could remember was that he met Koby and that there had been a fight with a pirate. 

"N..n..no a passenger ship, Alvida and her crew attacked it."

"Thats lame, who wants to attack innocent people who don't even want to fight back." Luffy enquired munching on his apple, internally he tried to remember this 'Alvida' he didn't want to affect the future by going to far against pirates who they had met again, he knew that old adversaries had a funny way of popping up again as friends. He would have to be careful to not hurt the wrong person unfortunately the only people Luffy could remember from this early was Buggy, Arlong and Smoker. 

"Pirates?" Koby asked, puzzled at the boys odd attitude for a person claiming to be a pirate. 

"Nah real pirates aren't bothered with those that are just looking to be free, real pirates are out for adventure, not hurting people who don't ask for it." Luffy exclaimed pausing in his eating to look at Koby seriously, imploring that he understood this message. 

"Have you ever met a pirate, all they do is hurt people." Koby exclaimed, he anger at pirates breaking through his fear, his voice coming out determined for the first time, making Luffy smirk to himself, there he is he thought.

"I've met lots of pirates both real ones and fakes. Sounds like this Alvida is a fake. How do you know this fake pirate?" Luffy questioned giving Koby his full attention as he explained the story of how he ended up under Alvida's command.

"I hate people who take away others freedom." Luffy clenched his fists raw power emanating from him, making Koby startle. "So I'll help you, but I'm a pirate not a hero so I won't save people who sit there and cry while life happens to them, you want my help you need to fight for it. Can you do that?"

Luffy looked into Koby's eyes seeing the moment a small ember flickered to life behind them. The will to fight one that would only blossom over time. Coby nodded standing tall and clenching his shaking fists.

Luffy grinned his eyes sparkling with pure joy, he had done it, broken through to Koby, he hadn't ruined everything with his loss of control earlier. He stood shoulder to shoulder with his friend subtly sending waves of determination, building his friends confidence.

"So you want to be king of the pirates?" Koby asked as they made their way to the top deck.

"Yup." Luffy nodded, smirking to his friend.

"Isn't that impossible? If your a pirate where is your crew?" Koby asked, suddenly feeling chatty with this strange confidence flowing through him. 

"Not impossible you just have to be willing to try, no matter the cost, and I'm on my way to get my crew, one of them is close but they aren't ready yet." Luffy exclaimed, a jolt of pain stabbing his heart at the truth of his last sentence.

"Huh..." Koby muttered confused, he had felt a sudden pain flowing from the boy beside him, eager to chase it away he tried to change the subject. "So your willing to die for your dream?"

Koby regretted the question as Luffy nodded solemnly, his aura had become somber and serious, chasing away the confidence the pink haired boy had felt not to long ago. "Sometimes the costs of dreams is high, but the cost of not trying is even higher."

Koby quietly considered Luffy's words, left with his own real emotions he really thought over what they meant to him, he had always wished to be a strong marine to protect people like him, to stop the cycle of pain that this world ran on. He wanted to be a hero to people like him, but he didn't know what a hero looked like, he had grown up on stories of Garp the Fist, the person who had brought an end to the dark ages, he had hoped that one day Garp would turn up, take him away from this pain, but it had been years, he had suffered under Alvida's command loosing more of himself every day. He had awaited being saved afraid to try and fight for himself, scared it would hurt if he ever tried, but he had hurt anyway, hadn't he? Maybe this kid had a point, maybe it was time for him to try, to fight for himself, to be his own hero so he could become someone else's.

 In the silence Luffy reflected on the past and future, he had already accepted he was more than willing to give his own life, but this time was different, this time he had a line he would not cross. He would not sacrifice the lives of his Nakama for any dream, he would not give anyone that option again, it wasn't worth it. 

"If i'm prepared to die for it do you think I could join the marines?" Koby muttered his voice small but confident.

Luffy snapped out of his thoughts, focusing on the moment he looked to the other boy, he could see a change manifesting, a train of thought that would lead him to his destiny. "The marines?" He asked softly, encouraging the boy. 

"Ever since I was a child it's been my dream to catch bad guys." Koby explained impassioned. "Do you think if I can stop Alvida I could do it?"

"It doesn't matter if you can, only if you try." Luffy said wisely, internally he was happy Koby was on the right path, but it was important that this time Koby considered the truths of the world early. Luffy had already planted the seeds of right and wrong, but it couldn't hurt to ensure they took root.  "But you shouldn't go into things blindly, things aren't always black and white, like their are good pirates and bad marines are the same. Koby if you became a marine do you think you could be a good one?"

Koby looked at Luffy considering his words and his change in demeanour, he was a perceptive child and could see that Luffy's question held an significant meaning to the straw hatted boy, and Kobys answer would solidify the future.  "I want to try." Koby's eyes filled with tears the heavy emotions sitting heavy between the two boys.

"Good!" Luffy exclaimed grinning, he knew he had set Koby on the correct path, that he had given him the tools to be a great defender of justice. "In that case I should introduce you to my Gramps." Upon finishing his statement he winked at Koby before throwing the trap door to the top deck open and using his rubber arms to launch the now screaming boy out into Alvida's eyesight. "Now time for you to capture Alvida."

Koby squealed as he was thrown out to the sharks or at least one big shark. His new found confidence in himself fled as he cowered in front of her listening as she screamed about Luffy's loud statement trying to hunt down the owner to the voice dismissing Koby as an unworthy threat.

Luffy sighed as he heard Koby falter, of course he couldn't change years of being downtrodden in one interaction, but he had high hopes that Koby would at least get out one confident line before shrinking back to fear. Rolling his eyes he launched himself out on to the deck after his friend, he didn't have high hopes of a challenge but maybe he would be surprised.  

"Well your not Zoro the Pirate hunter." Alvida sneered as she sized the young straw hat up.

"Zoro?" Luffy whispered, a frog painfully lodged itself in his throat, he had forgotten that this is where he heard of his first mate. He shook himself from his melancholy, he couldn't afford to keep letting this affect him like this, he needed to do better.  

"Koby, who's the most beautiful pirate on the sea?" Alvida asked looking down on the cowering boy.

"Well.. I.. um can't say you cause your not a real pirate." Koby voice quivered but Luffy was proud that he managed to bring himself shakely to his feet, standing his ground in front of his captor.

"What!?" Alvida screamed enraged at the sheer audacity of her chore boy. 

"Well," Kobys hand came up to rub at his head. "Real pirates don't attack defenceless people so you.. aren't a real pirate."

"How dare you, you filthy runt" Alvida screamed as she tried to bring down her mace on the boy, however she was stopped by a rubber hand reaching out and plucking her weapon from her grip and launching it out to sea.

"Oops sorry about that." Luffy smirked, his tone nonchalant and bored.  

"What the... get him!" Alvida screamed, she could not believe the nerve of this kid, she would make Koby fish her beloved weapon from the sea before his punishment.

Luffy's grin grew as he weaved through the oncoming onslaught easily avoiding attack not a scratch to be found on him. "Gum-gum whip." Luffy called before knocking down all the oncoming opponents with ease, that was was too easy he thought, didn't even raise his heart rate. 

Alvida looked on flabbergasted as all he men flew unconscious to the ground from the stretchy limbs of the young boy.

"Luffy, what are you?" Koby asked in awe. 

"I'm a rubber man!" Luffy grinned stretching his cheek out.

"So, the devil fruits are real!" Alvida sneered standing tall, sure she had been taken by surprise, but now she knew there was still no way this child would win against the most beautiful pirate on the seas. "You seem skilled for a runt, are you a bounty hunter."

"Nope, I'm a pirate!" Luffy exclaimed, pride shining through at the statement, it was who he was at his core, the captain of the straw hat pirates, and that would never change. 

"On your own?" Alvida dismissed, what a fool this kid was, a pirate, who would take him seriously?

"I have the best crew, I just haven't picked them up yet." Luffy smirked, his words were true, his Nakama really was the best. "I'll be with them soon, you'll see, well you won't because I'll defeat you, or maybe you will, honestly I can't remember you but you do seem somewhat familiar..." Luffy trailed off frustrated that he couldn't remember if Alvida held any importance. 

"Defeat me?" Alvida sauntered forward, smirking, she could not believe the cheek of this so called pirate, it was time to teach him a lesson, she was startled out of her approach by her very own chore boy.

"Yes, he's going to defeat you, cause he's a real pirate and I'm going to help him and be a real marine!" Koby shouted confident in a way Alvida had never seen before, her eyes bugged as he spoke. "I'm going to catch bad pirates like you, in fact your first on my list!" Koby exclaimed determined.

"You tell her Koby!" Luffy cheered. "Just for that I'm going to let her escape so you can catch her one day." Luffy extended a hand knocking the other pirate captain out with ease, Alvida didn't even see it coming.

"Now you get us a boat!" Luffy turned to the closest still standing pirate, eager to be away from this ship and on to the next adventure where he would finally reunite with his swordsman.

As the pirate rushed off to listen to the boys order, Luffy noted the feeling of approaching ships on, Marines he thought, a part of him preened at the opportunity they may present, Alvida had certainly been disappointing, however fighting Marines for the sake of it may not give Koby the best impression, no it was best they move on, beside he could feel Nami below them on the waters, if he timed this right he may be able to see her before he sets sail to Zoro. "Time to go, before the Marines catch up to us!" Grinning at his new friend who spluttered at being dragged off. 

They both loaded onto the provided boat quickly launching out to sea, Luffy couldn't help but grin at Nami as they passed her on the way, taking a snapshot in his mind Luffy comforted himself in seeing her, alive. It would have to carry him forward until he could once more be reunited with her.

"Now time to get Zoro!" Luffy exclaimed with joy, much to Koby's very vocal shock.

Chapter Text

In the beginning when Zoro had sworn himself to a life of piracy, he had but one stipulation;he would never put anything above his dream, he had been bull headed and determined, driven by only one cause, he would become the world's greatest swordsman, nothing and no one else mattered.

It occurred to the swordsman that life would have been simpler if he had remained this way. Zoro had realised long ago that his dream had changed, or maybe this had always been his true goal. As he stood on the precipice, the stench of death heading his way he finally understood;he had been so driven, so sure he could keep Kuina's spirit alive, if only he could shoulder her dream through to fruition, be the very best so he could ensure her name flowed through history. He hadn't wanted to be the best for himself but because if he was the best he would never again have to experience loss.

It was a realisation that had been building within him for years, ever since that fateful day on Thriller Bark where Zoro had stepped forward, begging for his own death to spare his captain. Kuma had warned him that he would not survive but he had willingly stepped forward to accept his fate, it had only been the thought of Luffy's face when he discovered what had Zoro had done that kept his heart beating in his chest.

Sanji had been the only one who knew, who understood the intensity of Zoro's passion for his captain, and their crew.

He was their protector.

Their swordsman.

It was his job to lay his life down, an insignificant sacrifice to keep them all alive.

The truth was his dream was no longer to be the best, it was to protect the best;

The world's best navigator who was currently black and blue unconscious in Sanji's arms as he kicked out at enemy after enemy.

The best sniper who was currently providing what cover he could from the treetops.

The best musician who was trying desperately to dodge attacks aimed at his bones.

The best archaeologist the only person alive capable of carrying his chosen captain to his dream.

The best helmsman who had only recently joined the crew, but had proven his loyalty at every turn, always watching Luffy's back when Zoro was unable to, currently leading their captain to his goal as he once had at Marineford.

Their talented doctor currently torn between helping with the relentless fighting or treating his fallencrew mate.

The best shipwright whose inventions had kept them alive this long.

Zoro turned to look to the greatest chef one of the best people he had ever known. Zoro was sure in the knowledge that Sanji would understand.

As the war had amped up on Laugh Tale, day turning to night as the fighting continued, more and more adversaries arriving turning the landscape red, the true colour of war.

Zoro had long since calculated their chances of survival; the government surrounding them, the island trembling in fear,the shockwaves of one of Blackbeard's powerful devil fruits coming ever closer.

Sounds of clashing swords as allies and foes alike came out from the woodwork, all throwing their lives away for an unsure future.

Zoro's shoulder ached where he had been wounded by a surprise attack from a presumed friend. The swordsmen knew he would already be gone if not for his mentor. He was thankful that his mentor had cared to protect him, but it was a bitter feeling, stained by the fact he had not seen the lone pirate since his initial arrival.

He was weakened, and ashamed.

His only consolation that the captain had long since travelled inland alongside Robin, Frankie and Jimbe, they had been desperately trying to reach the end goal before the situation reached the point of no return.

The remainder of the crew had stayed behind offering to buy time, against the insurmountable odds.

Their captain had only left after commanding them to return to him safely, they had each nodded, so certain in their own power. Zoro knew now he would have to disobey Luffy for the first time.

Catching the chef's eye, he hoped the blond would understand, that he would see Zoro's sacrifice for what it was. Him fulfilling his dream, seeing them safe. He knew no matter Sanji's thoughts on Zoro's sacrifice he would continue to protect the crew, ensure they made it back to their captain. To see him at the end, achieving his dream and saving the world.

Part of his brain knew this was a fairy tale wish, that reality was rarely that kind, but in the end they were a crew of dreamers, so he would continue to dream.

"Chef, get them out of here." Zoro grunted through the sword a this mouth.

Sanji looked to Zoro seeing the fire and acceptance in his eyes, a look only he had seen before. One of ultimate sacrifice, the last time he had tried to fight against it, but he knew better. He and Zoro had grown together the wings of their captain, the monster trio, they had moulded together each becoming an extension of the other. His heart broke as he saw the resolve, he knew it was inevitable, but he had to try."Marimo..."

"If you don't go now, we all die, let me do this." Zoro met his partners eyes, tears glistening, he didn't want to beg, but he would.

Sanji paused, he wanted nothing more than to stand beside his swordsman, face death side by side as they had many times before, but looking down he realized that staying would be selfish, it would mean sure death not just for him but the rest of their crew.

He was the only one that could use geppo, he knew he was the only chance for at least get some of them out of the line of fire. "Chopper." Sanji ordered sharply as his heart shattered into a million pieces. "Climb on."

Chopper looked over at the chef confused at the sudden order. "But Zoro, the others..."

"Now Chopper!" Sanji ordered sharply; he would not be able to go through with leaving if he didn't go now.

Chopper settled on top of Nami gently as Sanji took to the skies for an escape, tears running silently down his face. "Goodbye, Marimo" Sanji muttered as he flew.

Zoro watched relieved that at least some of the crew got away from the immediate threat, that they had a chance at survival.

With Sanji out of the line of fire Zoro felt he could breathe, surely the others would be easy to convince to flee.

"Ussop, retreat!" Zoro called turning his attention back to the foes ahead, he didn't need to check, he trusted the sniper king to follow his orders. Zoro threw himself once more into the fray.

A slice of his sword cut a singular path through the army of marines, one chance for the remaining member to flee through. "Brooke go now!" Zoro grunted.

"If it's all the same to you, I'll stay." Brooke answered his voice noble and strong above the sounds of war.

"Go stupid skeleton!" Zoro grunted intercepting attack after attack.

"I will not." Brooke replied sternly. "I have already lost one crew; I will not stand by and leave another behind."

Zoro grunted begrudgingly accepting Brookes words, at least the others had got away safe, Sanji would protect them.

"Fine, together?"

"Till the end."

Zoro could hear Brooke at his back, humming softly as the barrage of marines closed them in. They held out for longer than they should, buying as much time as they could bare for the others, their field of vision had long since turned red with the blood of their enemies. Iron thick in the air, Zoro unsure if it was his own blood he could taste or that of his foes. He could feel Brooke start to falter behind him, his movement becoming slower, the fatigue taking over. 

Then came the darkness, Blackbeard had arrived. Zoro could sense the panicking marines around him using observational Haki, but he could not make out where the Logia devil fruit user was, he could only hear the cold snickering laugh as he closed in on the swordsman.

"Straw hats right hand man." The voice snickered mockingly. "All alone apart from this useless bag of bones, well I'd say you put up a good fight, but you never really had a chance, did you?" The taunting came to a stop as Zoro felt a slash land true across his back.

Shame was the last emotion Zoro had as he faded to oblivion.

"Nine days down, only twenty left to go." Zoro mused as he hung under the blistering sun.

He could do this he reminded himself, his resolve was strong, this was a mere blip in his training to become the world's greatest swordsman. His silent musings were interrupted by two voices obnoxiously shouting from the perimeter.

"Hey, you two..." Zoro called out his head downturned, the shade from his bandana covering his eyes. "You're an eyesore, get lost." He looked up glaring at the two young boys who were loudly arguing unimpressed at their childish bickering.

He was surprised when he saw the young girl he'd sacrificed his freedom for jump the perimeter, seemingly ignoring the two children that had initially drawn his attention. 'Fuck' he thought concern for this helpless child flooding his mind. 'If the Marines catch her, she's dead.' Covering his concern, he snapped at her denying her kind offering of food even as his stomach protested the action. He tried to get her to leave through sheer will before she was caught, unfortunately he was too late.

That cursed blond-haired daddy's boy just to catch her. The pathetic brat that he was he wasted no time punching down on those who could not fight back. Stealing her offering for Zoro eating it as he seethed, pulling at his restraints. His anger grew as the blond insulted the child, snarls rising out of his throat as the marine ordered her to be thrown from the field. Zoro would have given anything to have his swords in that moment, to be able to repay the girls pain in kind. He made a promise there and then, when the month was out, he would make the boy suffer.

Helmeppo laughed pleased with himself at his pathetic attempt to be a tough guy, Zoro was unimpressed at the useless bully, who needed to pick fights with children to feel tough. The blond attempted to taunt the green haired swordsman as he walked away. Zoro could not think of a lesser excuse for a human, and he hunted pirates for a living, even they had more respect than the man child throwing his daddy's name around to garner respect.

"You were trying to protect that girl." Zoro was startled from his thoughts, looking up to see the black-haired boy in the straw hat approaching.

"I didn't protect anyone" Zoro grunted, facing away shame colouring his tone, all he had succeeded in was getting rope burns for his effort.

The boy grinned cheekily, but Zoro noted that it didn't quite reach his eyes.

"I heard you are aiming to be, the world's greatest swordsman." Luffy's tone was purposely nonchalant, shoving his finger up his nose, he had quickly learned this was the best way to avoid people paying too much attention to him, no one wanted to watch a person dig for that kind of gold.

"Are you making fun of me." Zoro snarled, who did this kid think he was, making light of his dream, standing there picking his nose. If only Zoro was free, he would make this kid see he was the real deal.

"No... I just wanted to test if you had the resolve." Luffy responded, he pulled his finger free, approaching the swordsman slowly. Circling around, observing Zoro under the guise of testing him, while he really checked him over for any signs of injury, if these marines had hurt his first mate Luffy would make them pay. "I only accept the best for my crew after all"

"What!" Zoro spluttered confused, trying to track the kid as he paced around.

Luffy came to a stop in front of Zoro, within touching distance, able to see the annoyance on his face. Even now Luffy could see it was a front, could see through to the vulnerable boy inside that just wanted something to fight for. "I need the best swordsman for my crew, as the future king of the pirates only the best will do."

"I'm not looking to be a good for nothing criminal" Zoro snarled once more pulling uselessly against his bindings, this kid was getting on his nerves. "I won't be joining any crew. I'm doing fine on my own, I would never stoop that low."

Luffy's face dropped momentarily, he had to admit even though he knew Zoro didn't mean it, it hurt. His best friend, someone he loved deeply turning him down, looking at him and only seeing a stranger. It reminded him his Zoro was dead, that the last impression he had felt from his swordsman would forever be the lingering feeling of shame. Luffy flashed back to that moment, suddenly finding himself in Jimbe's hold, screaming out for his Zoro, knowing that nothing could undo what had happened. At least with Ace he hadn't felt him leave, hadn't known his constant presence only to have it cruelly snatched away. Luffy was surprised he had even found the strength to push forward.

Luffy forced himself back into the present, forcing the trauma back behind the walls in his brain, never again he reminded himself.

He noticed that Zoro was looking at him perplexed, how long had he been gone?

"Okay, guess I was wrong then." The boy forced himself to grin, whistling a jaunty tune as he left the field, forcing his feet to move at a casual pace as his mind begged for him to flee, he needed a moment to breath.

"Hey!" Zoro called out his tone purposely gentle, it had been strange once he had stated he wouldn't be joining the pirate the boy's face had fallen, a despairing look had taken over his features, it looked wrong, part of Zoro had been tempted to promise anything to chase that look off his face, but as quickly as it had come it disappeared, but Zoro wasn't convinced. He needed more information, and he may as well use the boy to his advantage. "Would you mind getting me some of that." He nodded his head towards the ruined rice balls on the floor.

"The floor food, why?" Straw hat tilted his head looking curious, inwardly Luffy smiled a small genuine smile, his Zoro always cared.

"That girl made it, for me." Zoro's voice was low, serious. "The least I could do is eat it."

"Your weird, but I like it." Luffy grinned picking up the rice now covered in dirt and gravel.

He held it out to Zoro's mouth where the swordsman happily chewed even as he coughed around the grime.

"It's good, thank you for the food." Zoro muttered, thanking both the girl who had put so much effort into providing for him, and the boy who had kindly given him the opportunity to eat it.

Luffy grinned at the swordsman. "I'll let her know you enjoyed it." He said before taking off, fleeing before his emotions could get the better of him.

Zoro found himself once more alone strung up in the sun, his stomach fuller than it had been but an oddly empty feeling in his heart.

Luffy couldn't bring himself to head straight to the restaurant, instead sending Koby off ahead and finding a quiet spot on the island. Using his Haki to ensure he was alone he reached out to the only person who would understand his plight, as his call rang through he let go of his tentative grasp on his emotions. 

Shanks jumped on the Den Den Mushi the moment it started ringing, unless Garp had lost his marbles this could only be one person.

"Anchor?" Shanks answered, breathless from running to pick up the receiver, he was greeted by the muted sounds of gasping breaths and low sobs coming through the other end.

"Shit." Shanks muttered, it had been a while since the kid had an attack. "Luffy, I'm here, come on Lu you got this."

Shanks continued to keep up his mantra of support, waiting with surprising patience for his kid to come back to himself, to regain control.

"Pa..." Luffy's voice finally came through after what felt like hours of endless sobbing.

"I'm here Anchor." Shanks voice was comforting, a balm to Luffy's distress.

"Dad... I... I don't know if I can do this." Luffy cried, Shanks hadn't heard his boy so distressed since the first year of training. He had truly thought they had helped calm Luffy's bad thoughts, to help protect the boy from what he had once seen, but it obviously hadn't been enough.

"You're okay Lu, you have this." Shanks calmed, his hand twitching, he wanted nothing more than to reach through the Den Den, to be able to hold his son in his arm and ground him.

"It hurts." Luffy stated, his breathing easing slightly. "I found my Zoro, but he's not mine. I asked him to join me, and he said no. I miss them so much, I thought that if I just found them it would go away, but it still hurts, why does it hurt." Luffy scratched at his chest, the darkest parts of his mind wanting to pull his heart out, to remove the source of his pain.

"It's okay Luffy, it's going to be okay. Tell me, the first time, did Zoro say yes the first time you asked?" Shanks asked, he knew the answer having had three years of listening to Luffy's obsessive retelling of his crew's origin story.

"N-n-no." Luffy stuttered, the tears still flowing freely, his hand rubbing his chest red raw.

"So, it's going to be okay, right Anchor? He's not a completely different person, you just need to give it time, let it come naturally." Shanks soothed. "You've got this Lu, you've come so far and done so well, tell me how'd your first adventure go, did you find your marine?" Shanks asked, they had been here before and Shanks knew the best way to deal with Luffy's attacks was to ground him in this timeline, remind him that there was still hope.

Luffy slowly recounted the story of his meeting with Koby, smiling by the end retelling how Koby had managed to stand up for himself and declare that he would be the one to capture Alvida.

"See, you are doing so well Anchor, already making positive changes to the world." Shanks comforted.

"Thanks Shanks, you always know how to help." Luffy smiled a few tears still trickling down from his eyes, Shanks had really become his lifeline in the three years he had been back.

"Anytime Luffy, if you need me, I'm there." Shanks promised.

Luffy bit his lip nervous, worried that he would not be able to handle what was to come. "I'm not sure when I'll get another opportunity to get away to call you, once Zoro joins the crew there's not a lot of opportunities for me to get away until at least after we deal with Buggy."

Shanks paused at the mention of his estranged brother, he had been shocked to learn what the pirate had been up to during the time they had spent apart, his relentless destruction of a village, something Rodger would have been very against, but Luffy had explained that the clown pirate would learn to grow, would once again find his path towards being a better pirate.

It wasn't like Shanks could judge; he had certainly made his share of mistakes he would have to make up for.

"You'll be okay Luffy, I believe in you, I can't wait to hear how your next adventure goes, and for you to have your navigator back" Shanks soothed.

"I'll call you as soon as I can." Luffy stated his tears fully abated. 

"Hey Lu, could you tell Bug I miss him?" Shanks asked, vulnerable in a way that only a few people could draw out in him.

"I will Shanks, as soon as he is ready to hear it, I'll let him know." Luffy smiled, he hoped this time the brotherly bond would have a better ending then the last.

Sometime later found a calmer, more mentally prepared Luffy sat in the restaurant listening as Rika explained how Zoro had ended up in the marine's clutches. All to save a girl and her mother he hadn't known, Luffy felt bittersweet, it eased his mind that Zoro never changed, but it stung that his swordsman was always so ready to sacrifice his comfort to protect others. It was one of Zoro's best and worst qualities, in the end if given the choice between his crew or himself, it would never be a question.

Luffy felt the ghost of the memory of how angry and distraught he had been as he felt Zoro slip away. Do not let his death be in vain, Jimbe had demanded, but in the end it had been. The only thing Zoro's life had brought was time.

As Luffy pondered over the bitter memories he heard Helmeppo enter the restaurant, the obnoxious fool bragging about the capture of his swordsman, so much for the calm Luffy had found after his talk with Shanks.

His temper snapped as the blond rat threatened to execute Zoro, his fist flew out. Too angry to stop his hand from hardening black he felt as the bones in Helmeppos face crunch inwards. It would be a while before the idiot would be able to move. Luffy paused to take a breath his Haki flaring wildly as he fought against the darkness within, a terrifying urge to fall into the blackness and let it consume him. A hunger strongly urging to draw blood. 

When he was sure the darkness has retreated he leaned down over the blond, snarling lowly in his ear, hoping his words reached him through his pain.

"If not for who you will become to Koby I would end you right now... but for him I'll let you live. Be better." Luffy growled as he rose. "Now to retrieve my swordsman."

The other marines were unable to react in their shock as Luffy marched from the room. Only able to move once the two young strangers had left.

Koby followed behind Luffy freaking out about how the straw hats actions would make an enemy of the marines, but his words didn't matter to Luffy not anymore. His rage roared inside him like a dragon, lashing out demanding the boy protect what is his, had Luffy paused to listen he may have heard the thrumming undercurrent of drums, but he didn't have time or patience to listen, he had to get his right hand back, to begin to feel whole again.

Luffy came to a sudden halt in front of Zoro, waiting for his swordsman to snap out of the daydream he had been having.

"You again?" Zoro queried bringing himself back to the present. "Don't you have better things to do, pirate king?" he asked his tone sarcastic.

"I want you to join my crew, and I won't take no for an answer." Luffy demanded, his tone firm, leaving no room for argument.

"I already told you I'm not becoming a criminal." Zoro raised a brow, who was this kid that thought he could order him about.

"I'm not the one tied up." Luffy countered glaring. "I'll untie you, but you need to join me." He urged his tone desperate. 

"I don't need your help; I'm doing just fine where I am. I will make it through this challenge. After that I'll accomplish what I want." Zoro growled meeting Luffy's glare with one of his own, they remained locked in each other's sight neither giving an inch.

"Well I've already made my mind up, you are going to be the best swordsman, and that is the only swordsman I will accept at my side." Luffy stated without breaking eye contact.

Zoro faltered; the boy believed his words, this kid believed in his dream, he blinked owlishly, losing the glare off his face. "You can't decide that" He tried, but deep down he knew, he had lost, this stranger believed in him, the first person to trust in his dream. "Beside that idiot Helmeppo already took my swords." he tried, searching desperately for an excuse to turn this kid down.

"Well, I'd best get them back to you and prove I'm a worthy captain." Luffy showed his teeth in a hungry expression that almost had Zoro shivering in fear, watching as he took off quickly towards his goal, not wanting to waste time.

Zoro considered his options as the young boy charged off, he had been alone for so long, fighting endlessly towards his goal, no one had ever believed in him, sure he was talented, but no one thought he could beat Mihawk, only this strange kid who emotions seemed to change on a whim. This boy who claimed he would be the kind of the pirates, a goal as lofty as his own, but one he seemed confident he could achieve. In the end had it ever really been a choice, Zoro had never been one for company, but something drew him into Luffy's orbit, and he was afraid he would be lost in the current.

Luffy grinned to himself when he found his entry point; the first-time around this had been an accident, Luffy having no reason to draw the ire of the marine captain, but this time he took great pleasure in destroying the horrific statue of Axe Hand Morgan.

Honestly the ego on this man, Luffy could not wait to cut him down with Zoro at his side.

Using the utter destruction of Morgans prized statue as a distraction, Luffy quickly made his way towards Zoro's swords, he could feel Wado calling out softly its aura humming with yet untapped power. Luffy didn't waste time messing around instantly grabbing Zoro's swords and turning to leave. In shock he noted Nami's presence nearby, honestly how many near misses had they had before Luffy finally caught up with her?

The feeling of two of his Nakama back in his range made Luffy's heart sing, he couldn't wait for the symphony that would play once they were all back together. A sudden flash of concern coming from Zoro had Luffy bounding through the window, launching himself directly into the firing line.

His rubber body easily repelled the bullets, Luffy grinning maniacally as he launched them back towards the marines.

"What, who are you?" Zoro spluttered from behind shock making him forget about the immediate desperation of the situation.

Looking back to grin at his best friend Luffy proudly proclaimed. "I'm Monkey D Luffy, and I'm going to be King of the pirates." Zoro met his grin with one of his own.

"Of course, king of the pirates!" Zoro smirked, challenging the figure in front of him. "You must be completely out of your mind. Do you have any idea what that means?"

Luffy met his challenge proudly, answering with full sincerity. "King of the pirates means the ultimate freedom." He smiled at Zoro, looking right through him down to his soul. "It means being the best and having the best crew at my side."

Zoro and Luffy looked at each other, each sizing the other up, as they looked a bond flourished. Luffy sighed more attuned to his connections then Zoro thanks to his awakened haki, there he was, his swordsman, right where he belonged, the connection tentative but true.

"Yeah, that's how he is, he says he wants to be a good pirate." Coby nodded excitedly, unknowingly breaking the moment. "To obtain the one piece and be the best, he's really serious!"

Zoro glanced to the pink haired boy briefly, glad to break the overwhelming connection he could feel with the straw-hat captain, but the second he looked back he found it was still there.

"Here's what I promised you, three swords!" Luffy held them out carefully, giving each one the respect they deserved.

Zoro looked to Luffy shocked, he had thought the boy to be a careless fool, but here he was showing his instruments care only he had ever shown them.

This was it, the moment everything changed, the moment Zoro turned his back on society, chose something more than himself.

"Fight by my side, just know, if you do this, you'll be a government defying criminal, but hey it's better than being executed." Luffy smirked knowingly, he knew he had won that he had earned his swordsman's respect.

"What are you the son of the devil?" Zoro laughed, the overwhelming feeling of growing stronger intertwining him to his chosen captain. "In the end, it doesn't matter what you are." Zoro smirked. "If I don't choose your side, I just end up dead on these sticks. So let's do it."

Luffy grinned at the swordsman, celebrating his win, feeling lighter than he had been since the start of the war, Zoro was home. "Your finally going to join my crew, this is the best day ever!"

"Stop celebrating already and get these ropes off me!" Zoro snapped good naturedly.

"Oops sorry!" Luffy hooked a finger under the ropes pulling them easily loose.

As the ropes came off Luffy felt the marines approaching, but he did nothing, instead allowing Zoro to grab his swords, trusting his friend to protect his back.

His green haired swordsman easily blocked the oncoming slaughter, grinning menacingly as he threatened the men making them shake in fear.

Even though the point had already been decided Zoro felt the need to declare his intentions out loud, he needed to know, to ensure by following this path he would still be able to achieve his a Kuina's dream. "Today I officially become a criminal fighting the marines, so I'll become a pirate. I want you to know one thing, while I'm with you the only thing I dedicate myself to is fulfilling my ambition."

"Which is?" Luffy questioned, coming to stand face to face with his friend. His eyes openly curious, he needed to do this, to ensure that Zoro had his dream heard, to pledge himself to the cause of ensuring his dream came true.

"To be nothing less than the world's greatest swordsman. If somewhere along the way I have to give that up I want you to accept responsibility, after which you get to apologise to me."

Luffy paused looking at the young man in front of him, he allowed himself a private moment to feel the full weight of his previous failure, allowing it to fall heavy on his shoulders, before he let it go, this time would be different.

"I Monkey D Luffy do here by promise to help you fulfil your life's ambition." Zoro looked at Luffy's face finding only sincerity at his words. "The pirates king needs the best on his crew, and you will be the best." Zoro gawked at the boy, he sure did take these things seriously.

"You talk big, I like it, now let's make them remember the names Roronoa Zoro and Monkey D Luffy."

The rest of the battle flew by quickly Morgan offering little competition to the two pirates, the marines watched on in shock as Luffy easily dispatched of the marine Captain. Luffy's harsh attack on Helmeppo had ensured that no one could interfere in the battle, no threats to Koby's life, the Straw hat hoped that had little effect on their friendship, he would ensure his Grandfather took them both under his wing, try to get them on the right track.

While the marines shocked everyone, celebrating the pirate's victory over their captain, Luffy helped his exhausted first mate to the restaurant for some well-earned food, nine days strung up in the sun followed by a fight with the marines was no joke for even the toughest of people.

As they ate Koby considered the events that had taken place. He bit his lip in consideration before approaching Luffy with his question. "Luffy, you said there were good pirates and bad pirates, but that there were also good and bad marines" Koby picked at the plate in front of him as he considers his path in life. "I want to be a good marine. That is my dream, I want a marine that protects the weak."

Luffy paused between mouthfuls of food giving Koby the attention he deserved, this was an important change. Koby now a more promising recruit who had seen the best of pirates and the worst of marines, hopefully he would grow into a marine who wouldn't rush in head first to capture any and all pirates for the crime of existing. With Garp at his side, supporting his ideals, cultivating the new generation, he couldn't fail. Luffy had already snuck away to contact his grandfather, he knew that the two would be what each other needed. Koby would be the Grandson Garp had always wanted, eager to learn, happy to be a hero, while Garp would teach Koby to be brave.

"You'll be the best marine Koby." Luffy grinned at his friend. "I put in a good word for you, don't worry."

"Wait, what?" Koby asked confused, but Luffy merely smiled before turning his attention back to his food.

"So, captain, where's the rest of the crew." Zoro enquired curious, after he had finished his fill of food.

"Not got them yet." Luffy said shovelling more food in his mouth, grinned internally as he watched Zoro go pale in horror.

"WHAT!" Zoro spluttered, how had he signed up to be the only crew member to a crazy captain.

Luffy chortled in joy. "It's fine Zoro, we will have a crew in no time, then it's off to the Grand line"

"The Grandline, you can't you'll die!" Koby squealed, he had heard many a horror story about the place in his time at sea.

Luffy's brain halted at Koby's words, shaking his head clenching his fist tightly allowing the pain of his nails digging into his flesh to ground him. "We won't die." Luffy insisted, his tone leaving no room for argument. "My crew are going to be the best; we will make it to the end of the line."

Zoro nodded in agreement, his captain may be crazy, but no one reached the top by settling for safety.

Coby looked on shocked by Luffy's determination.

They atmosphere was interrupted by marines who came to warn them to leave town, a favour to the pirates who had saved the country, as they had received word that The Hounder was enroute to their location.

As Luffy and Zoro prepared to leave Luffy turned to the marines his expression stern.

"Look after the cry-baby." He muttered lowly. "Garp the fist has his eye on him."

Walking away from the shocked marines Luffy paused at the door, turning back he regarded his pink haired friend. "Be a good marine Coby."

"I will!" Coby saluted before muttering "Be a good pirate"

"I promise!"

Chapter Text

Luffy had been naïve in his planning, thinking that things would be easier if only he could get his Nakama back, that it would heal the gaping hole in the rubber boys heart.  

He would be the first to admit that it had helped temporarily, but it had only been a temporary band aid unable to hold up to reality.  

Zoro’s aura soothed his soul. When Luffy closed his eyes, he could almost imagine that he was with his swordsman. The one that had scars that matched Luffy’s own. He could place himself in better times, days where him and Zoro had journeyed away from the rest of the crew, the captain and his first mate on their own side adventure.  

He could pretend that the rest of the crew were aboard the Sunny, enjoying their lives, basking in their freedom. He could hear Chopper and Usopp laughing on the wind, smell Sanji’s cooking. He could lose himself in the good times, until he opened his eyes. He would catch a young Zoro staring at him. One that hadn’t learned how to trust others, that was regretting his impulsive decision to follow a captain who didn’t even know how to navigate a ship.  

As they sailed onwards, only Luffy’s blind faith to guide them on a small rowboat tension grew high.  

As hours turned to days and food became scarce Zoro’s gripes got louder and Luffy became tenser, had he failed already? He couldn’t remember the journey to Orange Town, only that him and Zoro had arrived there after they left Shells Town, but he was sure he would not have forgotten Zoro being this annoyed.  

He would give anything for some space, just a moment to sneak away and speak to Shanks or even Gramps, he was desperate to talk to anyone that could sooth his fears.  

This Zoro was so different to the one he had lost, sullen and disconnected from his emotions, his only driving force was to be the best. Any questions Luffy asked were met with one-word answers, it felt wrong.  

It didn’t help matters that Luffy was tired, it had been almost a week since he had last been able to use up enough energy to force himself to pass out, his eyes felt heavy with every blink but Luffy could not risk falling asleep, he would not expose Zoro to the horrors of his nightmares, to the bone chilling screams that would tear from his throat and the helpless way his hands would seek salvation, often leaving marks across his body as he desperately tried to make the pain stop.  

Shanks had been the only one who had managed to calm him through the night, and even though he found the presence of Zoro’s mental signature comforting he could not risk scaring the swordsman away, so he forced himself to remain awake. Growing more erratic as time passed.  

Zoro quickly noticed that Luffy was not sleeping, it was impossible not to in the small space. At first the swordsman assumed his captain was ensuring his recovery, keeping watch as he slept, exhausted after nine days strung up on ropes, but over time he began to suspect that there was a more sinister reason. Zoro had never been one for company, his only friend long dead and any acquaintances only sticking around momentarily, as such he was unsure of social etiquette. Perhaps his captain was not sleeping due to the pirate hunter making him uncomfortable, was his captain scared of him. That couldn’t be it could it? The boy had practically begged him to join his crew. When they had fought side by side they had moved in sync, complimenting each other perfectly, a unit, but out of combat it seemed harder for them to bond.  

It was days of give and take before something snapped between them.  

Zoro hungry and bored of being stuck in the small, confined ship had offered to take watch so the captain could sleep. When the rubber boy refused his offer for the umpteenth time Zoro had had enough.  

“What is your problem!” Zoro snapped; his sudden outburst caused the rubber boy to blink at him owlishly. “Look, you asked me to join your stupid crew and now you don’t trust me not to kill you in your sleep or something?”  

Luffy’s eyes grew wide, he knew for a fact this had not happened last time, he’d ruined it, just like he thought he would.  

“No... no I trust you Zoro promise.” Luffy begged his dark eyes wide, a hint of desperation in his voice. “I’m just not tired.”  

Zoro snorted humourlessly. “You want to tell that to the bags under your eyes.” Zoro reached out grabbing the boy's hat, watching as the boy reached out delayed, his brain moving slowly in his exhaustion. “You can barely function, if you don’t sleep you will get us both killed.”  

Luffy blinked at his hat, shocked that Zoro had managed to nab it, the swordsman was right if he didn’t sleep, he’d be no good to anyone, but he was scared. His bond with Zoro was already weak, what if this was the thing that broke it. Luffy considered his options before deciding, better Zoro leave him here then Luffy lead him to danger when he was too tired to stop it.  

“Okay, I’ll try sleep.” Luffy whispered, gripping his fist tight. He raised his eyes meeting Zoro’s own; he implored his swordsman to listen. “Zoro, I don’t like sleeping, the bad thoughts win when I’m asleep, if it looks like I’m struggling you need to wake me before it's too late.” Luffy was vulnerable in a way Zoro had yet to see.  

Zoro nodded suddenly afraid of what might happen as Luffy slept, he had seen flickers of something dark beneath the boy's façade, something he knew his captain was running from.  

“I’ll protect you captain, even from yourself” Zoro promised.  

Luffy nodded, snagging his hat back from the swordsman laying down trying to calm his heart rate, he imagined Shanks beside him, telling him a story. Eventually he managed to slip into the unknown, he could only hope he wouldn’t find himself back there.  

Zoro watched as Luffy slept the boy still as death in sleep, perhaps his warning had been for nothing. Sleeping the boy looked peaceful, his face lax. Zoro didn’t understand his captain, he was a complex person that's for sure. One moment he could look innocent and carefree, like the world had no effect on him, he was the epitome of freedom, running through the world on a dream alone, casual in his approach to piracy, I mean who else would set out to sea with no crew or ship? Then there was the other side of the boy, a darkness that would take over in an instance. Zoro was not the sort of person to experience fear but when Luffy got that look in his eye it took everything in him to not shiver. He wondered what could have happened to cause a pain that deep, all he knew was that for as long as he was a part of Luffy’s crew he would hurt anyone that hurt his captain.  

As Zoro watched he saw a switch in Luffy’s posture, it begun with a tightness around his eyes. Had he not been watching so closely he might have missed it. Then came a low whining sound, a desperate keening noise one that cut through Zoro like a knife. The swordsman was instantly on his captain a soft hand reaching to him to shake him awake, but as his hand made contact something strange happened. “Zo-ro” Luffy muttered in his sleep, his face falling lax once more peaceful. Zoro raised a brow, maybe he had reacted to soon, he moved his hand away alarmed to see the tightness quickly returning to his captain's face. ‘Fuck’ he thought through what he knew of the rubber boy, he was obviously tactile, throwing around hugs like they were candy. There was nothing for it, his captain needed sleep, so Zoro did the only logical thing settling down beside the smaller frame he wrapped him in his arms. Happy to hear his captain sigh happily leaning into the swordsman's touch, maybe Zoro was better at this people thing then he thought.  

They lay there for a while Zoro slowly joining his captain in slumber as they floated along the sea gently bringing them closer to their next adventure.  

When Luffy awoke it was to find the green haired swordsman rowing their little boat, he was surprised he had managed to enjoy a full night of slumber, he couldn’t remember the last time he had slept this well, probably back before he lost everything. He didn’t understand but he certainly felt better for it.  

“Morning captain.” Zoro nodded at the boy. “Sleep well?”  

Luffy grinned stretching his limbs. “I can’t remember the last time I slept this long.”  

Zoro grinned, teasing his captain gently. “I think you were being a drama queen.”  

“Hey” Luffy grumbled but smiled to let Zoro know he knew the swordsman was teasing. It was amazing what some sleep could do, Luffy had a new lease on life, joking with his best friend as they sailed forward. It was a new dawn and Luffy felt hopeful for the future.  

“Seems I’m a better sailor when I don’t have you to distract me, judging by the birds I’ve seen overhead looks like we may be approaching land.” Zoro smirked gently knocking his captain's hat.  

Chapter Text

Luffy kept his eyes on the sky above as they sailed onwards, he was worried about what he would find when they arrived at Orange Town. He knew that this Nami was not the girl who had come to love and trust them as family. No. This Nami was distrusting and angry, abused by the person who murdered her family and yet loyal to fulfilling the empty bargain Arlong had offered her years before. Luffy was terrified the smallest error would send Nami running for the hills, he had to be perfect.

He was thankful for the sleep he had managed to get, that it had given him more control over his volatile emotions.

He could do this; he would do this. Nami's happiness was non-negotiable, he would have his navigator back.

Luffy allowed a small grin to burst across his face, there it was, the seagull who would carry him to destiny.

With a grin to his swordsman, Luffy catapulted himself to his goal.

Zoro spluttered as he watched Luffy fly through the sky, rowing the little boat as fast as he could to try and catch up to his captain.

Luffy observed his surroundings as they flew over Orange Town, he could feel Nami's aura lighting up his Haki. Her fear was palatable as she was confronted by Buggy's crew, but even now he could sense her strength, her determination to make it. His Nami was always a survivor.

Luffy was distracted by the sudden blast from a cannon, a ball being thrown his way. Covering his hand in Haki he quickly redirected the shot, sending it back to Buggy. With a thanks to the bird Luffy launched himself off ready to protect his Navigator from the mad clown's crew.

As he landed, he couldn't help but grin over at Nami who was quivering in front of him. Finally, she was there, within arm's reach.

Luffy could feel a warmth spreading as he looked to Nami, it started in his chest bursting through his body, uncontainable, Luffy began to laugh in exuberance. He could almost hear the drumbeats of his chest.

Nami looked to him in fear, who was this strange being that had fallen from the sky? Was he another member of Buggy's crew- no, he's too young she thought, and the grin was not a sinister sneer, in fact it almost made Nami feel warm, comforted, something she hadn't felt in a long time.

Luffy took account of what was happening around him, the two pirates starting to recover from his sudden appearance, Nami who had gone from fear to calculation, of course it would only take her a moment to plan a scheme to escape.

"Are you okay?" he asked addressing the redhead, his eyes checking for any signs of injury.

"Oh gee boss, thanks for coming to save me!" Nami grinned looking relieved that he had turned up, but under the relief was a sense of shame, he knew Nami never wished harm on others, she must have been desperate to escape.

"Yup, here I am, to save you." Luffy grinned back much to Nami's shock.

Why would this random kid follow her scheme? Making her escape Nami glanced back at the boy, silently thanking him for being there to save her.

She only hoped he would be able to escape without getting to hurt.

"There all yours now boss, have fun!"

"There's my navigator." Luffy thought to himself, throwing himself into battle so she could escape. He would protect her with everything he had.

Luffy looked to the pirates for the first time, they were obviously low-ranking members of Buggy's crew. They had no real strength, not offering much of a challenge to Luffy even back the first time he encountered them, however what they lacked in skill they made up for in irritation.

One of the pirates manage to sneak past Luffy's defences laying a hand on his precious hat. Now that would not do, Luffy quickly caught the hand as it tried to pull away, throwing him quickly to the floor and pinning his face between his foot and the ground. The pirate was out cold as soon as his head slammed against the floor.

The remaining pirate recovered from his shock quickly raising his sword in revenge, Luffy quickly downed him with a single Gum Gum Pistol.

"Wow, you're really strong." Nami called from a balcony of a nearby building. "Even though both of them had sabres you beat them barehanded."

"Hey, it's you!" Luffy called back, grinning widely. "I thought you'd have run while you had the chance."

Nami looked guilty, biting her lip softly. "Yeah, about that... thanks for taking care of those stupid pirates."

"Anytime." Luffy promised, he meant it, all Nami had to do was ask and Luffy would take care of anyone and anything in her way. He could still remember her last moments, how she had spent them sending a message to her captain, thanking him even as she faded from reality. He had to remind himself to remain in the moment, remember this Nami didn't know him, he didn't know her. He'd have to be careful if he ever wanted the chance.

Forcing his face into his trademark grin Luffy looked to the red head. "So, now those people chasing you are out of the way, who are you?"

"I'm a talented thief who steals strictly from pirates. The names Nami!" She smiled leaning over the balcony, her face carefree and easy while her eyes narrowed calculating her next move. "Hey, want to team up with me?"

Part of Luffy wanted to jump for the hills, agreeing to Nami's every request, but that wasn't what she needed. "What's in it for me? Got any meat?" Luffy grinned.

"Meat?" Nami asked incredulously, her eyebrows rising in shock.

"I'm so hungry." Luffy whined wrapping his arms around his stomach, playing into the act. He needed time to get Nami to begin to see him for him, before she found out he was a pirate and could only see the title.

"So, I help you find food and you'll team up with me?" Nami asked, easily leaping from the balcony landing in front of the rubber boy. "Come on then, one feast coming right up!"

Luffy happily munched down the meal Nami provided, a bonus to his sated condition, Nami's cooking, it wasn't as good as Sanji's food, but it still tasted of home. It had always been her that had cooked when Sanji was unable to. Over the years they had travelled the world Luffy had come to appreciate the red heads cooking, especially any recipes that used tangerines.

They kept conversation light as Nami cooked, Luffy savouring every laugh Nami gave, even if they didn't have the same freedom as his Nami's each one shone a light in the shadows of Luffy's soul.

"So, you live here by yourself?" Luffy asked between bites, turning the conversation from trivial matters to the more personal.

"This isn't my house; I'm just staying here for the time being. Everyone has left this town because of Captain Buggy." Nami explained acting casual, he knew it must hurt seeing a town so like her own.

"So, you're a thief?" Luffy asked wanting to move the conversation away from anything that could cause Nami pain.

"How rude, I only steal from people who deserve it, pirates, so don't compare me to some scumbag petty thief." Nami whined. Luffy was relieved to see that Nami was less tense, but to hear her so vehement against all pirates, well that wouldn't do.

"Hmm, and only pirates deserve it? How about criminals, murderers, marines who abuse their power?" Luffy queried, his tone calculated carefully focusing on the food in front of him allowing Nami the opportunity to process his words.

Nami's face went red, how dare this kid question her.

"Of course, only pirates deserve it, they are rotten criminals who ruin people lives." She snapped.

"I'm sorry you think that I've met lots of criminals who aren't pirates, and lots of pirates who are good." Luffy advised, continuing to move his food around his plate.

"There is no such thing as a good pirate."

"Sure, there is, I'm one of them!" Luffy revealed looking up to meet Nami's shocked eyes.

Nami's eyes tightened, her demeanour changing from open to hostile. "You're a pirate." She spat.

Luffy nodded, his gaze meeting Nami's own, determined to make her see that there were good pirates in the world. Even if it hurt to see her looking at him with such open hostility, he would never lie about what he was. "Yes, I made a promise to the person who gave me this hat that I would form a crew and be the world's greatest pirate." Luffy brought his hand up to stroke lovingly at his hat.

"There's nothing in this world I despise more than pirates, I only like money and tangerines." Nami glared, how had she been so kind to this boy, she cooked for him, laughed with him but he was a filthy pirate the whole time.

"That's sad." Luffy blinked breaking the eye contact with his navigator, allowing his gaze to land on his plate he considered everything he knew of Nami, how she had been hurt, how she had opened her heart and changed. What if she hadn't met him, had remained under Arlong's control bitter and afraid. If she had never come to accept the past and move forward. It made Luffy shudder to consider the life she may have had, the life she may have if Luffy didn't get this right.

"You think you don't like me because I'm a pirate. There are so many great pirates but you won't give any of them a chance, that's stupid" Luffy exclaimed thinking of all the pirates Nami would come to call friends.

Nami blinked in anger, how dare this kid question her, he was wrong, pirates brought pain and destruction everywhere they go. Walking away Nami went to the window, she needed some space, this kid was driving her insane.

Luffy felt terrible for upsetting his navigator, but he needed to push her, needed her to learn and grow. He watched as she stared out the window her eyes a storm reflecting the anger inside, as he observed he saw Nami's eyes focus on something outside. Her breathing slowed and the storm faded a look of calculation taking over.

She suddenly turned around a large grin on her face. "Maybe I am judging you to harshly, maybe I could give you a chance to be my friend."

"Really?" Luffy grinned. "I'd do anything." Even though Nami may have not really meant her words Luffy would still go to the ends of the earth for his Navigator.

Nami smirked softly, her eyes alight with joy that her plan was coming together.

"Well then I need you to come with me to pay a little visit to Buggy the clown, but first." She raised her hand to reveal the rope.

"Okay, I trust you." Luffy stated making Nami flinch softly, he ignored her shame continuing to smile back at her, offering his hands.

Wordlessly Nami tied a rope around the pirate, she made it as tight as she could not wanting the pirate to be able to escape her scheme, no matter how kind this kid he was still a pirate and deserved what would become of him.

"Right, now we are ready to go." She ordered pushing Luffy gently prompting him to leave the building.

"Awesome, I can't wait to show you what a good pirate is." Luffy flashed his signature smile to Nami watching her face fall and regret seep into her eyes.

Nami led Luffy from the safety of the building towards Buggy's base. The young pirate in front of her was surprisingly compliant, smiling away as they marched onwards, constantly babbling telling tales of his adventures on the seas, to Nami's surprise they had so often narrowly missed each other. She tried in vain to tune the boy out, to remain focused on her goal, but no matter how hard she tried she couldn't help but be drawn to the boy his reckless joy in taking to a life at sea. In her mind Nami began to picture herself in another life, one where she could enjoy freedom, feel the wind in her hair as she sailed on the open seas. She shook the image from her mind, she knew better, she knew what real piracy meant pain and bloodshed.

As they came upon Buggy's base Nami grew rougher in her treatment to the Straw-hatted boy, his tales of piracy burning an already open wound. Once they were finally in front of the blue haired clown pirate Nami stuck her tongue out taunting the boy before throwing him at Buggy's feet. If the kid wanted to play pirate he would have to live with his choices, just as she had to live with hers.

"I've captured the thief Captain Buggy the clown, and here is your chart back." Nami's tone was purposely light, jovial and confident.

Buggy's face was dark as he responded instantly suspicious of this girl and her motives, but as Nami quickly weaved her story, her natural talent for manipulating a situation on show she convinced the clown to put his faith in her. She had done it, set the kid up to take the fall for her crime, now she just had to slip away. She watched with a small hint of guilt as Luffy was caged but joined the clown pirates celebrating their new member. Nami downed any drinks she could get her hand on, laughing and joking with her new 'crew', it was too easy, slipping into the detached part of her brain so she could play her part.

Until it became too real.

Buggy was an unstable insane, megalomaniac Nami thought in horror, she should have known better. A celebration with pirates always leads to people getting hurt.

As they loaded their cannon with the 'Buggy ball' Nami felt as if they had dropped the ball into the pit of her stomach. She forced her face to remain neutral, battling the tears the rose in horror as Buggy sent the cannon flying into the village. Once again standing by, helpless as a pirate destroyed the lives of the villagers as hers had once been.

She caught the eye of the kid she had sold out, he looked serious, angry a storm brewing in his eyes. It made Nami shudder, there was something in this kid, something terrifying, but she found herself drawn in, even as the storm grew, she felt a small thread tie them together. They were both here with these pirates, watching helpless as they levelled parts of the village, people's lively hood, and it had been done in Nami's name, a celebration of her.

It went from bad to worse as Buggy turned to his newest member his head turned in challenge he made his first order of his newest recruit; light the fuse, end the life of the idiot kid who wanted to play pirate.

Nami stood over the cannon, and the world around her paused. She could feel the hungry excitement of bloodthirsty pirates behind her. She had fucked up, now it was kill or be killed, her victim a kid who had wanted to be her friend, she stared at the kid fear of the future gripping her in its vice, this was it the last thing she had to lose of the Nami who Bellemere had raised.

"What's the matter, your hands are shaking." Luffy's voice was like a knife to Nami's soul, strong and sure in the face of sure death.

Nami whimpered, could she do this, could she become a killer, or would she die here? If she fell all would be lost for her home, for her sister, the people she loved.

"That's what happens when you take on pirates with half assed resolve." Luffy cautioned, his voice wise beyond his years.

"Resolve!" Nami cried. "To do what? To kill someone like its nothing? Is that a pirates resolve? Is that what a good pirate is?" She questioned desperately pleading, she needed an answer, a solution to the war raging internally.

"To be a good pirate you have to be willing to risk your own life" Luffy threw her a soft smile, the storm in his eyes calming. His words held a weight, the heavy understanding that this boy understood death in a personal way, he knew that it was inevitable and when it came for him, he would ultimatly accept it.

Nami's face darkened, her brown eyes trained on Luffy's own, she could see that the storm had given way to a roaring fire, bright and strong, ready to stand against the world, his flames sparked something in Nami that she had not felt for years.

She had spent so long taking orders, losing more and more of herself as she sacrificed her very soul to save her village, but today would be different. She would not cross this final line. This was not Arlong who owned her, this was a stupid clown with a stupid red nose. He may be cruel, but Nami had endured worse.

Nami nodded to Luffy decision made, but as she went to move, she felt the matches being snatched from her hand. Instinctively she drew her ever handy bo staff, she had made her choice, and this dumb pirate was not taking that away from her. Effortlessly knocking the pirate out with a bash to the head Nami's sudden flash of bravery fled her. She looked out to the countless crew that were sneering over at her, what had she been thinking, she couldn't take on the Buggy Pirates, what magic this kid have that had made her think she stood a chance? Backtracking Nami apologised for her actions, her bo staff still held defensively in her hand.

"So you've decided to save me?" Luffy called out, reminding her of her resolve, fuck guess she was doing this, but not for a pirate, no.

"Don't be so stupid, I'm not doing this for you, you idiot. I just don't want to lower myself to the level of these inhuman pirates." There that would tell him, she didn't care what happened to him, but she would not become a killer.

"Okay, thanks anyway." Luffy grinned, his navigator was so brave, willing to die for her resolve, not that Luffy would let her, no, never again.

"Pirates took the life of a person very dear to me, I'll never be one of them." Nami passionately revealed interrupting Luffy's dark thoughts.

"I see." Luffy muttered softly, how had he missed this last time, had Nami always said this here, he couldn't remember. He had remembered Nami being closed off about her past when they first set sail, it hadn't been until it had come to a head that all had been revealed. Had Luffy missed the opportunity to allow his friend to reveal her tale before the choice was taken from her?

Luffy broke from his reminiscence he could see that the fuse was getting shorter. He could easily handle the cannon should it fire but it had to be up to Nami to save the day, with that in mind he called out to his friend letting her know of the ticking time bomb.

Nami burst into action, managing to hold off clown after clown as she made a dash to save Luffy's life. As she arrived at the cannon, she looked around desperately realising with dread there was nothing to stop it. The fuse grew ever shorter as Nami gripped tightly to her resolve; she would save this kid. Running on pure instinct Nami reached out holding the flame tightly as it burned her flesh, her scream of pain sending shards into Luffy's heart.

Luffy almost couldn't stomach it, red clouding his vision as he fwelt Nami's pain like his own, except it was worse because he had allowed it. He knew that it needed to happen that Nami needed to learn her strength, but he would rather walk through flames then have Nami get hurt for him. "Watch out!" Luffy cried as the pirates approached the girl who had tears streaming down her face.

Zoro arrived instantly stopping the incoming attack and protecting Nami.

"Are you hurt?" He asked focusing his attention on the girl behind him as she whimpered. "I said are you hurt?" Zoro repeated his voice firm, a steady presence for the girl to concentrate on.

"Zoro" Luffy called out in glee, he had known his first mate would make it in time, he always did but he hated waiting here while Nami was attacked. He refused to remain acting so helpless, he couldn't handle his crew getting anymore injuries today. He shook of the ropes that bound him, remaining within the confines of the cage for now as he watched the situation unfold.

"No, I'm fine I think." Nami stated hiding her reddened blistered hands behind her back grinned softly at her saviour.

"Zoro, you made it!" Luffy grinned, same old Zoro, he could be lost in the middle of nowhere but if his crew was in danger he would always find his way.

"How do you get yourself into these situations, first a bird flies off with you, now I find you in a cage." Zoro griped; his captain sure was interesting.

"Talent" Luffy cheekily grinned. "Besides who said I was trapped?" The boy raised his brow.

The Buggy pirates and Nami spluttered as they realised the famous bounty hunter was stood among them casually addressing the prisoner held up in his cage.

Buggy was irritated, this was his show, not there's how dare they flashily barge in and try to steal the spotlight, no they were just like him! He would not stand for it, time for him to take centre stage. He stepped up to the plate a dark sinister grin on his face as his aura turned dark, there was no need for Haki in these seas, but that didn't mean he couldn't use it for theatrics. These kids would soon learn not to cross the Buggy pirates.

Buggy stepped forward baiting the swordsman who had the nerve to dismiss him, him! The adopted son of the king of the pirates, who was this jumped-up cabbage who had more swords than brain cells, oh well this should be easy. He approached allowing the swordsman to step past his defences, slicing his body to three clean chunks. The clown settled a moment allowing the feeling of victory to sink in, his crews laughter grew as the swordsman turned his back on him, but suddenly the air changed a stifling heavy Haki sat in the air. Buggy continued his path, he was imagining things, he must be, he had only met two people with this power one who was dead and the other had long since abandoned him.

He sliced his sword through the air surprised when it met residence in the form of that damned prisoner. How had he got here, and where was the pirate hunter?

He watched as the boy met his gaze, his brown eyes sparkling with power as he grinned at the clown from beneath his damned straw hat.

Buggy tried to work out what had happened, how had this boy gotten from his cage to the end of his sword? It was impossible, who was this kid, he smiled in the face of the death in a way that reminded Buggy of times better left dead.

"Luffy!" Zoro screamed, watching blood drip from his Captain; Buggy could see him on the floor his hand held out towards his captain.

"Buggy's still alive!" The red-haired girl muttered, man she was slow Buggy thought.

Buggy needed to regain control, he was the ringmaster, these kids still needed to learn that message, he would not be made a fool of in front of his crew.

"The chop-chop fruit." He manically laughed as his hand returned itself to its rightful place on his body. He shot a dirty look to the green haired swordsman who was rising from the floor. "I had wanted to kill you pirate hunter, but if this kid wants to get in my way, I'll happily take his life first."

"No!" Zoro snapped anger colouring his tone, clutching his swords firm he slipped into a fighting stance.

Buggy laughed who did these children think they were, there was no way they would escape. "Try as you might but I cannot be defeated by a sword!"

"He got stabbed on purpose, to save the pirate hunter" Nami muttered to herself, Buggy could see her curled up on the floor in shock, her brain trying to process all she had seen. "But pirates are selfish."

"Pirates?" Buggy taunted, his laugh becoming dark and sinister. "You kids are going to die here for daring to cross me!"

Luffy rolled his eyes, this Buggy was annoying, cheap tricks and empty threats. Sat in his ivory tower punching down on those that couldn't fight back. He hadn't even been able to detect Luffy breaking from his cage appearing in front of Zoro in a burst of Haki that made it seem he had teleported. Buggy needed a reminder of who he was and Luffy was going to make it hurt!

"You are a disgrace of a pirate." Luffy spat bitterly his anger seeping through every word. He allowed his wound to bleed sluggishly the tar like blood running down his chest from the wound in his shoulder. "Challenging an opponent to a sword fight only to try to stab them in the back using a cheap trick? It is against the rules."

Buggy regarded the boy, glaring at him as he stood there. He was almost impressed at how the child stood his ground not allowing any sign to show his shoulder bothered him. "We're pirates, we don't follow the rules."

"We might not follow the rules," Luffy stood strong raising a hand to that blasted hat. "But good pirates follow a code. You are not a good pirate!"

Luffy allowed the words to register across Buggy's mind, he had been raised by the best of pirates, surely he understood this was wrong? Well if he didn't Luffy would be sure to show him. "I'm going to kick your ass."

"Kick my ass?" Buggy laughed angry, this kid had no shame, he was the best pirate, loyal to his crew in the way no one had been for him. He would pay for his words "I'm afraid all three of you are going to die today."

"We're doomed" Nami cried her feet stomping the ground as she sobbed.

Luffy laughed joyfully, they would never die to this clown. "I don't think so big nose! Zoro!"

Zoro shot an angry glance to his captain who smiled back at him shamelessly, he would have to address why his captain felt the need to interrupt his fight later. Zoro nodded understanding his captain's plan.

"You two had better have a really good plan to get us out of this." Nami begged finally pulling herself to her feet.

"I got this." Zoro nodded to his captain, stepping forward with ease to intercept Buggy's oncoming onslaught, it was barely a challenge to keep the clown focused on him, perfectly lining the clown up in front of his crew. He held his position waiting for Luffy to aim the cannon, once he could see the shot was aimed and the fuse lit, he quickly retreated from battle scooping up the Navigator as he passed, he joined his captain as they ran from the scene, Buggy's crews scream of terror following in their wake.

Luffy watched Zoro as they ran side by side back to the village. His anger was palatable, he could feel the pressure of it thick in the air. He'd messed up, he knew but he hadn't been able to stand by and allow Buggy to get a cheap shot in to leave Zoro with a scar on his back he would carry with shame.

"You okay Zoro?" Luffy gently enquired, he would face this conversation head on, ensure Zoro knew from the start how much he was worth to his captain, that Luffy would always have his back as he knew the swordsman would have his.

Zoro gave his captain the side-eye, he respected that Luffy had the gall to ask, to not run from the conversation they both knew had to happen. He slowed to a stop placing the redhead on the ground he faced his captain. "You stepped into my fight, took a knife that was meant for me."

Luffy nodded, meeting Zoro's enraged eyes. "I did" He confirmed voice confident and honest daring the swordsman to challenge him. "I won't apologise for protecting my crew."

Zoro regarded his captain his anger simmering. "You asked me to be your swordsman, yet you don't trust me to win in a battle?"

Luffy bit his lip, he knew how important honour was to Zoro, he understood he had messed up, but he couldn't face allowing Zoro to be injured so soon after Nami had burned her hands protecting him.

"If you don't trust me then I'll walk away right now." Zoro spat, he had trusted Luffy to believe in him but maybe he was wrong.

"I know Zoro is strong" Luffy cried out desperate. "Zoro would have won but he was aiming for Zoro's back which is mine to protect, like you protect mine!"

Zoro thought back to how they met, how Luffy had stood there still as the marines had charged him, how Zoro had intercepted without thought protecting his captain. How Luffy had been vulnerable trusting Zoro to watch over him as he slept. How small his captain had felt within his arms.

"We protect each other." Luffy pleaded, his tone hinging on desperation. "That's what a crew is, a family."

Nami watched on in bewilderment, just who was this kid? He was unlike any pirate she had ever met.

Zoro looked into Luffy's eyes, in them he found unwavering trust and devotion, it made Zoro unsteady to see the depths the captain would go to for him. "Okay Captain" He accepted. "You'll have my back, and I will have yours."

Zoro nodded to the redhead who had stopped to watch them as they settled matters. "Who's the girl?"

"Oh yeah, she's my new friend." Luffy grinned, glad he had come to an agreement with Zoro, he would have to take care to allow Zoro to grow in his own way, even if the thoughts of what injuries were to come made him shudder.

"I'm not sure about that yet." Nami states nervously. She conceded the two didn't seem to be out to hurt her, but they still professed to be pirates. "Who are you two anyway?"

"I already told you I'm Luffy, and this here is Zoro." Luffy exclaimed showing off his swordsman.

"The pirate hunter?"

"Formally" Zoro grunted not offering any further information. He turned to his captain. "Luffy we should get you cleaned up."

Luffy looked down to see that his blood had started to dry, congealed clumps sticking to his skin, he nodded his acceptance leading the crew onwards.

The town was abandoned and silent as they approached, the only sign of life a dog who was perched on guard outside of the pet store.

"Doggy!" Luffy grinned as he laid his eyes on ChouChou he respected this dog who was so focused on protecting his treasure, he only hoped he would be able to remain that determined when guarding his own.

He rushed over to stroke the dogs head, surprised the dog allowed the touch even leaning in momentarily before returning to his guarding position. Luffy smiled at the dog taking a seat beside the animal grinning at his friends.

"Luffy, shouldn't you rest?" Nami asked concerned, how was he still standing after losing so much blood.

"I'm good. I want to stay and help doggy" Luffy grinned at the girl brightly.

Zoro approached the boy and ChouChou. "What's this dog doing anyway, the place is abandoned and yet it's sat here like a ghost."

Having seen the dog allow Luffy's touch Zoro tried to prod the dog into moving but got bitten for his efforts. Luffy laughed jovially as Zoro jumped around trying to displace the determined pup from his arm, glad it wasn't him this time.

"Hey, leave poor ChouChou alone!" An old man called out as he approached.

Zoro and ChouChou paused mid fight, Zoro looking round to the old guy.

"Who are you, old man." Zoro spluttered, that was the second fight today that had been interrupted.

"I'm the mayor of this town. Who are you and why are you hurting ChouChou" He replied, pausing when he looked to the straw hatted captain. He could see the blood still slowly leaking from his exposed wound. "Why that quite an injury you have there, I take it you had a run in with captain Buggy, we need to get you to a doctor."

"I'm okay, but thanks old man" Luffy grinned. "I will just wait here with this dog."

The man tried to insist the boy seek medical help, but the boy was determined to keep guard with the dog.

The young female who accompanied them enquired what ChouChou was doing, and why he had been so defensive. The mayor settled down, explaining what had happened to cause ChouChou to take up guard of his beloved shop.

"He's protecting his treasure." Luffy declared gently nudging his uninjured shoulder into the dog's fur. ChouChou barked in understanding giving Luffy a quick lick in thanks for joining him in his stand.

They were interrupted from their musings by a rumbling coming from the ground, panicked the mayor implored the kids to run but his pleas fell on deaf ears.

Looking to ChouChou Luffy smiled gently. "You're not going to run, are you?" He questioned. "You won't leave your treasure unprotected, but I want to help,I promise to protect your treasure, but I don't want you to get hurt. Will you allow me to protect your treasure while you wait inside?"

ChouChou turned his head gazing at the young boy, deciphering his secrets, when he made his decision, he barked once picking up his bowl and wandering inside the shop. Should the boy fail ChouChou would go down with his treasure.

"Guy's let me handle this one, I'm going to make sure nothing happens to this shop!" Luffy turned to his companions, gripping his fists tightly as he implored them.

"You sure Captain, you're still injured?" Zoro asked while Nami happily ran for cover.

"Yup, I got this Zoro, and if it goes bad, I trust you to have my back" Luffy grinned causing Zoro cheeks to redden slightly.

Zoro nodded stepping into the shadows and out of sight.

As Mohji and Richi approached Luffy did his best to slump down, placing his hand over the wound on his shoulder.

"So, your friends abandoned you?" Mohji sneered looming over the boy from his perch on Richi. "And after you sacrificed yourself to save the pirate hunters life."

Luffy looked up allowing his hand to fall revealing the bloodied trail. "W-who are you?" he asked forcing his voice to tremble.

"I'm known as the beast tamer, Mohji of the Buggy pirates."

"That's a weird animal suit you've got on." Luffy blinked up internally grinning at insulting the older pirate.

"How dare you this is manly hair." Success Luffy grinned as the pirate got riled up.

"Weird." Luffy exclaimed stumbling to his feet, allowing his stance to be unsteady and his arms loose.

"You're not worth my time weakling!" Mohji raised his brow, unimpressed by the child that stood before him. "I have no interest in killing you but tell me where Roronoa Zoro is before I change my mind."

Luffy paused as if he was considering the offer before allowing his grin to overcome his face. "I'll pass!"

"Richie attack" Mohji ordered, if the kid wanted death he'd get it.

As Richie raised his paw to bat the boy he felt the wind change. His attack that had been aimed directly for the boy missed instead clamouring through the air. The lion tamer and his lion heard an eerie laugh on the wind.

Two things happened consecutively, the first was an outcry of 'Gum Gum hammer' as Richi felt a force around his neck swinging him to the ground. The second was a foot meeting its perch in the centre of Mohji's chest displacing him from his seat.

As Mohji rolled to the floor he could see his beloved pet sprawled out in front of the pet store. He heard the swish of katanas being removed from there sheath looking up to see Zoro stood in front of him.

"Heard you were looking for me?" Zoro grinned coldly, his tone challenging.

Mohji panicked looking up in fear. "Sorry." he begged. "I don't want any trouble."

"You should have thought about that before you tried to attack my captain." Zoro made quick work of the man leaving him out cold on floor with a whack of the blunt end of his sword.

Luffy approached the pet store calling out to the dog within. "ChouChou, you can come out. Your treasure is safe."

Nami watched as the dog sprinted out of the building into Luffy's arms. The dog yipped as the rubber boy pet him lovingly. She had never seen a pirate so dedicated to helping protect the weak, maybe there was something to these 'good pirates'.

Approaching gingerly Nami called out. "Sorry about earlier, I judged you before I even knew you, and I tried to sell you out for treasure."

Luffy looked over meeting Nami's gaze, his eyes knowing. "It's okay, you are under a lot of pressure." He smiled softly. "If pirates killed someone, I cared for I'd probably have a tough time believing they could be good as well."

Nami looked away ashamed.

"It's okay, I know what it's like." Luffy dropped his voice ensuring Zoro could not overhear.

"Wait you-" Nami begun vulnerably.

"These young ones have done so much to protect this town." The mayor interrupted ranting to himself, frustrated. "Yet me, the mayor has done nothing."

Luffy rolled his eyes frustrated the old man had interrupted an important conversation.

"Calm down, it's not that bad." Nami tried to sooth the old man.

"Not too long ago this land was nothing but barren fields. We worked hard to cultivate the land, and for what, to let some big nosed pirate take it from us." The mayors fist clenched. "Well, I say enough is enough!"

As the mayor ranted Luffy saw the special Buggy ball thundering towards town lighting up the sky as it flew. Reacting quickly Luffy stretched his body to intercept, hardening the point of impact he ricocheted the ball back to where it came from. The three onlookers looked on shocked at the action.

"How are you alive?" Nami questioned confused.

"Haven't I said, I'm a rubber man!" Luffy stated pulling at his face, grinning widely, he never got over the shock on people's faces when he did that for the first time. The opportunities to do it had slowed the more infamous they had become.

"Enough is enough, I'm the mayor of this town, I need to stop these pirates in their tracks." Nami tried to physically hold him back telling him he couldn't fight Buggy. "Maybe so, but there are some fights you can't run from, isn't that right?" The man looked to Luffy for support.

"That's right old man!" Luffy grinned, he had a point even if the rubber boy would never actually let him fight.

"Shut up, don't egg him on Luffy it's dangerous for him to fight Buggy." Nami struggled as the man finally slipped her grip.

"I know it's dangerous, but I'm coming for you Buggy the clown." He called as he ran off.

"Well we had best get going if we're going to save that old man." Luffy giggled, the anticipation of a fight overflowing from his bones, Buggy may even offer some challenge.

"Looks like this party is just getting started." Zoro returned Luffy's grin as he placed his headscarf on.

"But your injured." Nami spluttered.

"Oh this." Luffy gestured his shoulder. "It's just a flesh wound, you should see the ones my Dad and Grandpa gave me" Luffy grinned as Nami looked on shocked. "We better steal your chart back if we are going to get to the grand line." Looking to Nami Luffy gave a half smile. "So, how about it ready to join our crew?" He held out his hand.

Nami smirked slapping the hand away.

"I already told you, I'll never sink so low as to become a pirate, but I suppose we could team up in order to achieve our common goal." She smiled as Luffy laughed.

The team arrived just in time to intercept Buggy's hand from killing the mayor, innocently smiling as Buggy spluttered in annoyance.

"I'm here to kick your ass just like I said I would, Buggy." Luffy threatened grinning at the clown.

Buggy was filled with disappointment as they lowered the anchor on Laugh Tale, he'd finally made it, the island he had only seen in his dreams within reach. He scoffed bitterly as he looked out to the shore.  

"Well, Dad, I'm finally here." The clown looked to the heavens, tears silently streaming from his eyes. "I never thought I'd make it, but here I am the end of the line. When you died all I wanted was to prove that we were worth it, that me and Shanks would continue your legacy." Buggy wiped away his tears allowing the wind to blow them out to sea he took a deep breath. "It was never mine to take was it?"  

The wind softly billowed, gently caressing his loose hair in its breeze.  

"When Rayleigh turned up, I thought finally, finally I had done enough to impress you, but it was never me, that boy the one Shanks marked, he's your successor?" Buggy felt like screaming, raging against the world, but it wouldn't help. Not anymore.  

"Buggy." A soft voice called announcing his presence.  

Buggy didn't turn to look at his company, his tearful face grimaced in pain as they approached from his left, coming to a stop close enough their elbows touched his own softly on the banister.  

Buggy continued to look over the bow to the island that loomed in front of them, it was peaceful and silent, still untouched by the war raging in the rest of the world. Buggy knew the peace wouldn't last. He reflected on everything that had brought him to this moment, the young man who they had come to rally behind, the one that had spurned him into action all those years ago.  

"You know, I never told anyone of my dream to be king of the pirates. To follow in his shoes" He began slowly voice quivering with emotion. "I never thought it mattered enough when Shanks was there, always one step ahead, showing me as the weak one in every way." Buggy's lip shook as he held back his tears. "I finally got brave enough to voice what I wanted, but it didn't matter."  

"You were never weak Buggy" Rayleigh leaned against the rails, staring blankly ahead into the darkness. "I think the last few days have shown you got all of the brains, I'm sorry you felt secondary, but we loved you both the same. In the end maybe we let you both down."  

"Yet you ask me yet again to abandon my dream in order to serve it on a platter to another!" Buggy looked to his last remaining father figure letting him see the tears finally falling from his eyes. "Do you have any idea what I have endured? The way they treated me?" He gestured to the captains' quarters where he knew Mihawk and Crocodile were sleeping.  

"You are strong my boy, strong enough to step aside when called for." Rayleigh advised placing a hand on Buggy's shoulder, gazing into his eyes allowing the clown pirate to see his honesty. "I wouldn't ask this of you if it wasn't important."  

"That stupid Straw Hat was the start of everything" Buggy grumbled wiping at his eyes. "I was happy in the East Blue, I had everything I could want and yet he barraged through ruining everything."  

"You were stewing in your resentment." Rayleigh countered. "Then he came along and changed your world, you got stronger, became the man me and Roger knew you could be. I'm sorry, but you can’t deny the boy brings the winds of change, a force we shouldn't resist." Rayleigh raised his other hand to rest on the clown's face. "I brought you here because it's time to take a stand, to fight for freedom. You are free to choose how you want to fight Buggy." Rayleigh nodded to the shore. "The Straw hats are on the other side of the island, should you want to take the treasure yourself your welcome to try. I'll tell you exactly how to find it, but ask yourself, do you want to be king?"  

Buggy considered his options, deep down he knew he didn't have what it to fix this broken world, heck without Rayleigh they never would have made it this far. He considered his crew, the family that had chosen him, one that would never leave. He knew that a war was being raged across the world, everyone had been affected, innocents lost. Celestial dragons burning down the world in the hunt to eradicate all who would oppose them. Buggy knew he didn't have the same will as Monkey D Luffy, he would not be the one to bring the winds of revolution, to stop the corruption and free the lost. He couldn't be king, but maybe he could help the boy who would, have a small part in the story. In the end would that be enough?  

"Do you really think he'll come?" Buggy asked changing the subject.  

Rayleigh dropped his hands, his sharp eyes observing the seas as if he could feel his lost son getting closer. "Undoubtedly."  

"We can't stop him." Buggy stated bluntly, he knew the power his brother held.  

Rayleigh drew a deep breath; he'd been shocked at the news when he heard it, had hoped it was lies, but deep down he knew the son he had raised had died a long time ago. "I know, but hopefully I can give him pause, make him see sense."  

"Can you really fight him?" Rayleigh could hear the layers in the question, Buggy had always revered his brother, although he had acted annoyed, he had always put his brother above his own life believing he was unworthy compared to Shanks. He would never be able to stop him, it would fall to Rayleigh should the worst happen.  

"I'm not sure he was ever really my son; it seems we never even knew him." Rayleigh's eyes were dark stuck in the past. "It's late, the war could find us at any time, you should get some rest."  

"You first, old man" Buggy grumbled at his father figure, who in response turned to leave.  

"Buggy" Rayleigh paused. "Promise me one thing, stay away from Shanks, if he is who they say he is there may be no reasoning with him."  

Buggy raised his hands defensively. "Trust me, I don't have a wish to die."  

Rayleigh nodded taking his leave.  

Buggy continued to watch the island, worried for the family reunion that was sure to come. Shanks was one of the strongest pirates on the sea's, his haki the most powerful on record, he was worried what the future held.  

'I hate that damn straw hat'  

"Damn you straw hat!" Buggy stated returning his hand to his wrist. "How dare you, you can't just waltz up to me and treat me like this. I'm Captain Buggy the flashiest pirate on the sea and I won't stand for it."

"Captain Buggy?" Luffy queried his voice mocking. "I think I've heard that name before, hmmm, nope can't be, he'd never know a weakling like you."

"What are you guys doing this is my fight?" The mayor interrupted looking to the three kids in shock.

Luffy looked back at him, this guy was interrupting another moment, it was a good thing he was a nice Mayor who cared about his village. Luffy extended his hand pretending to hit the elderly man, while he subtly sent a wave of conquerors haki forward to make him sleep. There that should stop any interruptions.

"What are you doing, why did you knock out the mayor!" Nami questioned frustrated at the straw hat.

"I thought you wanted him safe?" Luffy asked confused, he'd done good got the mayor out of the way.

"If he'd have fought, he'd have died." Zoro advised smirking as he stepped forward swords extended.

"Now come on big nose!" Luffy taunted the other Captain. Time to teach Buggy not to underestimate him.

Buggy saw red, this kid was making fun of him, he aimed a buggy ball Buggy ball at the trio spluttering in shock as Luffy inflated deflecting it back easily. The clown captain had only a moment to grab his nearest crew to use as a shield.

"How dare you try and flashily do me in" Buggy snapped throwing his men to one side once the smoke cleared.

"Typical pirate, using his men as a shield." The red haired girl grumbled her arms crossed in front of her. The straw hat pirate threw a disappointed look her way, sad that she was still putting all pirates in the same box.

"So you have a devil fruit too?" Buggy stated, it explained why the cockroach was proving unusually difficult to stomp under foot. Now he knew he could easily counter the boy, after all he had already made him bleed.

"A devil fruit!" Nami muttered relieved she had an answer to what the hell was going on with this kid.

"Yup the Gum Gum fruit!" Luffy announced proudly pulling his cheeks out in his trademark grin.

"How do you plan to respond to this insult, Captain." Cabaji asked revealing himself from the shadows his knives at the ready.

"Oh Cabaji, I don't know I'm too angry to think." Buggy moaned, everything this kid did rubbed him the wrong way and that grin was too familiar, it reminded him of another hat wearing fool.

"Then allow me to avenge you." Cabaji requested always at the ready to support his captain.

"Fine but make it a good show for everyone." Buggy requested, after all they had to remind everyone, they were in charge here.

"Captain." Luffy heard from his right. "Allow me to repay your sacrifice earlier and stop this fool."

Luffy smiled to Zoro nodding before stepping back into line with Nami, he would show Zoro how much trust he had in him to defend his captain.

The two swordsmen clashed, the difference in skill obvious, without his injury Zoro had no issue fighting the acrobat toying with him as he tried to find a weakness in Zoro's defence.

Nami watched on impressed by both the resolve Zoro showed and the support coming from Luffy who had been cheering him on from the side-line. Nami found herself getting carried away even allowing a singular cheer to escape her lips, which snapped her back to reality, these pirates were too dangerous, they made her feel things she hadn't felt in years. It was time to leave before she got to attached. Making her excuses to Luffy she left heading towards her goal, treasure.

Luffy watched the battle excited to see his swordsman at work, getting frustrated at the blue haired pirate when he had to intercept another trick from him, how was this fool related to Shanks again? It was hard to remember the pirate Buggy had become when faced with this spineless fool who disregarded the pirates code.

Challenging Buggy with a grin, Luffy turned from his first mates battle confident Zoro would come out on top, he smiled as he heard Zoro's signature 'Oni-giri' followed by Cabaji's defeat.

"Luffy, you got this guy" his swordsman asked regarding the clown pirate with boredom.

"Yup" Luffy grinned raising his thumbs at his first mate, he was excited to teach Shanks brother a lesson.

"Good, I need a nap." Zoro settled down in the shade of the pub, his head leaned down as he pretended to sleep, watching his captain intently.

"I'm looking forward to this!" Luffy grinned turning to his prey.

"What is your problem!" Buggy asked looking at the rubber boy as he advanced.

"You're giving pirates a bad name." Luffy shrugged standing casually awaiting Buggy's attack. "That and I owe my Dad to help you be better."

Buggy chuckled, this kid was insane. "Pirates a bad name? We are pirates that is what we do!"

"Is this what Roger would do?" Luffy questioned his eyes sharpening as he met Buggy's own.

"What!" Buggy spluttered, this kid couldn't possibly know, his own crew didn't know how some random kid would.

"I don't think it is." Luffy advised his hand coming up to his hat, tapping his fingers against it trying to ignite Buggy's memory, it was frustrating that the blue haired pirate didn't seem to recognise the hat he had spent his whole childhood around.

"How would a stupid kid like you know anything about that?" Questioned Buggy sharply, this child was starting to fuck him off, it had been years since he had heard his father's name. He had worked hard to bury the painful memories, running from the trauma of his past, how dare this kid bring up the past so casually, Buggy would have revenge.

"Because I'm going to be the next king of the pirates!" Luffy stated confidence exuding with every word.

"What? If you're the next king of the pirates does that make me God?" Buggy laughed, relieved the kid was just spouting fanboy nonsense of course he didn't know how his father would feel.

"You think you can beat me? Then bring it, I'll prove to everyone that I'm the King of the Pirates." Luffy challenged with a smile, clenching his fist in front of him.

Buggy paused his anger boiling over as his brain connected the dots, he knew what it was that annoyed him so much about this kid, an image unwillingly coming to the forefront of his mind of another pirate who had worn a similar hat with a strikingly similar attitude.

"Looking at you makes me think of another pirate, that stupid red head."

"Shanks?" Luffy queried, his lips upturning tauntingly as Buggy flinched, time to make this pirate confront his past.. "I remember now he mentioned an old friend in the East Blue, a once promising pirate who had given up. He even said he missed him, called him brother..."

"What did you say you moron!" Buggy snapped raising his various blades and rushing into battle.

As he approached the kid he found only air as the boy stretched to the other side of the field. "Not bad." He acknowledged. "But not good enough." He aimed back at the kid this time making contact, one of his knifes finding purchase on that damned hat.

"You bastard!" Luffy shouted. Granted he may have allowed the hit to connect knowing how important it was somethings remained unchanged, but it didn't mean he wasn't annoyed at the blue haired pirate. "No one damages my lucky hat and walks away alive. This hat is my treasure and anyone who lays a finger on my treasures will not get away."

"Woah." Nami muttered watching from a safe distance. "Here I thought nothing could phase him but here he is getting worked up over a hat?"

"Your hat is that special?" Buggy taunted bitterly, maybe he was finally getting under the boys skin.

"You should know Big Nose, you recognise it don't you?" Luffy growled his voice low, demanding that Buggy make the connection, he had all the pieces it was only sheer ignorance that he didn't realise the truth of the hat.

"The only thing I see is a reminder of something unpleasant, but if your hat is that special, then you should protect it." Buggy sneered aiming his attacks for the top of the boys head.

Luffy had to hold back the instinct to stop the daggers as they tore through the straw of his hat ripping it from reach, it had to happen for his Nakama he chanted internally as he gasped. Shanks would understand, but just because he had to allow it didn't mean he wouldn't avenge it.

As Buggy ranted about treasure Luffy grimaced, if the clown hadn't made the connection he would throw it in his face. "That's my hat, when Shanks gave it to me, I made a promise..."

"What?" Buggy queried throwing the hat to the ground in disgust. "So, this used to be Shanks' hat, no wonder it looked so familiar, he always wore it when I knew him."

Luffy raised a brow, part of his brain realising that the blue haired pirate must have been more traumatised than even Shanks had realised, even as he recognised the hat as Shank's his mind blanked on where the red head had received it. Things had gotten more difficult, but the rubber boy had to make Buggy face his past, to get him to start to move forward.

"How could you treat the hat that way? the hat of your old captain. Do you have no respect?" Luffy asked angrily shoving Buggy to the ground, he would get through to him if he had to force it.

"What? Shanks wasn't my captain." Buggy protested his brain fighting to keep the truth out of reach.

Luffy lowered his voice as he lent over the pirate so as not to be overheard by his crew. "No, but Shanks didn't always own the hat!"

Buggy spluttered shame suddenly settling in his stomach as he finally thought about his past, flashed of the man who had originally wore the hat he had so cruelly disregarded. Buggy gasped in pain as the truth he had spent years avoiding settled around him. He had surrounded himself in envy and hatred so he didn't have to feel the despair of losing his family.

"How dare you tear up my treasured hat." Luffy shouted as he pulled and scratched at the other captain.

Shaking himself out of his memories Buggy glared at the small captain, shrouding himself back in his hatred. "That hat is everything I despise, it reminds me of that dratted Shanks and how I'll never forgive him."

"What did Shanks do to make you like this?" Luffy spat, he knew the truth but didn't think Buggy would ever willingly tell him.

Buggy told the tale of what had lead up to him eating the Chop Chop fruit.

"So, he saved your life?" Luffy queried raising his eyebrow, knowing that was not the truth of what had occurred between the brothers.

"That's not the point!" Buggy screamed. "He took my dream from me."

"It seems to me that you got too greedy and threw your dream away." Luffy countered. "Beside surely if you were that dedicated you would find a way?"

"What, no!" Buggy spluttered. "Since that day I vowed I would never let anyone take my treasure again. So, I'll be having that back!" Buggy stated before launching himself at Nami away from the difficult questions Luffy was asking.

Luffy responded in the only way he could, hitting Buggy in his jewels. He smirked as buggy fell to the ground.

"Hey, you better drop that treasure and get out of here Nami, you don't want him coming after you again!" Luffy said grinning at the red head, he knew she would never willingly walk away from hard earned gold.

"No!" Nami said desperately. "I'm not dropping my treasure. Why should I leave it behind?"

"Did you just call it your treasure?" Buggy sneered recovering from his pain.

"That's right, you heard me I'm a thief who steals from pirates, and I just stole all this treasure from a really annoying one so that makes this mine, understand?"

Luffy shook his head amused, no matter when they were on the timeline Nami would always love her treasure.

Buggy started ranting at Nami annoyed before threatening her and launching his separated body at the thief. Luffy impeded the attack by tickling the pirate's foot, as Nami aimed her bag of treasure at the blue haired pirate Luffy knew it was time to finish this charade.

He threw aside the foot launching himself at the blue haired pirate he subtly covered his hand in haki as he placed his fist into the clown's nose. The last thing they saw of the clown was his eyes widened in surprised recognition as he flew away from Orange Town.

"Thanks a lot, I owe you one." Nami muttered, blushing as she glanced at the pirate who had saved her countless times.

"Don't be silly Nami, you owe me nothing, we're friends remember? Friends don't let friends get hurt." Luffy determined looking deeply into Nami's eyes.

Nami looked away ashamed.

"You should get your treasure." Luffy prompted seeing Nami's downturned face. Nami smiled slightly before catching sight of Luffy's hat trampled into the ground.

She frowned to herself picking it up and offering it to the boy.

"Sorry your hat got all torn up." Nami sympathised, her voice gentle, he had seemed protective of the thing.

"Don't worry, I can still put it on, no matter how scratched and bruised my treasure gets what's important is that it lives to fight another day." Luffy had a small smile on his face as he turned towards Zoro who was watching his captain closely.

"When I have time I'll fix it for you, if you'd like?" Nami murmured, shocking herself with the offer.

"That would be nice, thanks."Luffy smiled softly understanding how vulnerable the offer would make Nami feel.

"Oh, erm, no problem." Nami muttered ashamed. "Look I separated the treasure into two bags, you can carry one of them."

"That sure is a lot!" Luffy exclaimed.

"Yup for a stupid clown he sure had some good treasure. Here you can have this." Nami held out the map of the grand line.

"No thanks!"Luffy shook his head, that map would never be his.

"I thought you wanted to get to the Grand line." Nami questioned curious, why wouldn't he take it? he had seemed so interested in it earlier.

"I can't get there without the best navigator, and they aren't ready yet, so you should keep hold of it for now." Luffy advised reaching out to gently push Nami's hand down, he wouldn't force her to pretend to be a Straw hat, this time when Nami officially joined it would be because she was ready, until then she would be his friend.

"If you're sure." Nami was confused as she pocketed the map, she had thought for sure the pirate would be leaping at the opportunity to snatch the map.

"Look, don't get any ideas but if you're staying in the east blue for the time being then you can tag along with me for a while. It might be nice to get to know some good pirates" Nami smiled softly at her new friend, he would be company for her until she had to return to Arlong, it would be nice to see some good in the world.

"That would be great, thanks Nami, Zoro wake up we're leaving." Luffy smiled as they headed on to the next place, ready to find his sniper.

Chapter Text

The world passed him by, as he laid abandoned, forgotten amongst the trees. He watched the sun rise and fall as he waited. His crew would come, they wouldn’t abandon him, would they? Of course they wouldn’t, they were the straw-hat pirates, brave warriors of the sea, the first crew in a century to reach the end of the line.  

Usopp just needed to be patient, they would come for him, they would turn up just in time like always.  

Zoro had probably gotten them lost.   

Yes, that was right, they wouldn’t leave him behind.   

Usopp forced himself to turn to the side his body heavy and weak. The sight that met him made his flinch in shock, how could he let this happen? It would bring his captain shame.  

Where his arm had once stood was a blackened husk. He needed to move, to cover the truth. How could he be the king’s sniper with one arm?  

It was okay, he assured himself, he would still be useful. If he couldn’t use his slingshot he would use his word, that’s it, he’d always been great at telling stories.  

Tears filled his eyes as he realised, he didn’t need to be a great warrior, he just needed to be a straw hat, surely, they would still have him?  

His brain slowly registered the sound of footsteps drawing closer, steadily moving their way through the forest to his hiding place.   

He could hear a gasp of pain, as it carried through the air, cutting through the ever-present sounds of war.   

“Ussop” A broken voice sobbed, it was unfamiliar but still felt like home, he was okay, someone had come.   

Ussop tried to turn, to use the last of his strength to greet his saviour, but his weak body refused to comply.   

He heard the footsteps hasten to his side could feel himself being jostled, the pain sending white flashes of pain through Usopps tired mind. Hardened calloused hands held him strong. The sniper tried to focus, to see who had come for him, but his eyes refused to comply with his brain.    

“It’s okay son, I’ve got you” Was the last thing he heard as he fell into the blackness.   

When he returned to awareness he could feel no more pain, he felt arms tighten around him as he blearily blinked. A bright light filled his vision and within he saw a face he had thought he would never get to see again.   

“Kaya?” Ussop exclaimed his voice hoarse and quiet from disuse.   

“You're awake.”  Kaya’s voice sounds wrong, too deep, but it mattered none to the sniper glad to see his heart again. “It’s okay son I have you, you're a fighter. You will survive this.”  

“Kaya, I’m so happy to see you, I have so much I want to tell you” Ussop rambled, his words falling from his mouth in a non-comprehensible garbled mess. “It’ll sound crazy but it's all true, promise.”   

Ussop watched as tears fell from Kaya’s eyes, it was wrong, everything was wrong. He could feel the chest beneath him heaving with sobs. He wanted to make the pain go away like when they were children.   

“Luffy, you remember Luffy don’t you?” Ussop asked looking to his angel who nodded brokenly. “He’s going to be king now, we made it see, just like I promised you.”   

The sobs got harder; it was all wrong. Kaya again her voice low with emotion “Yes, you made it son. Hold on a bit longer and you’ll soon see your king, can you do that Usopp? For me?”   

“I could fly for you Kaya!” Ussop muttered, using the last of his energy to reach up with his remaining hand and touch Kaya’s face. It felt too large in his palm, but she had grown, gotten stronger, as had he. Hadn’t he.   

“You’re strong Usopp, the strongest, you can stay awake, stay with me.” Kaya begged hand coming up to hold his hand tightly.   

“I will Kaya, I just need to take a little nap, gotta make sure I’m in top condition when Luffy gets back...” Ussop slipped away, his arm going limp falling from his father's face.   

Yassop sobbed at the top of his voice, he had failed his son in so many ways and now it was too late.   

He had abandoned his family for a life of piracy only to discover his life was a lie.   

He begged for someone to find him, pirate or marine he didn’t care, if they could reunite him with his family.   

Luffy smiled, buzzing with excitement as he saw Syrup Village coming into view, it had been a long four days at sea, but they had finally made it too their destination.  

Nami sighed as her feet touched the sand, stretching, glad to be out of the cramped quarters of Buggy’s boat. The days at sea had been long filled with suspicious glares being thrown her way from the green haired swordsman and expectant smiles from the Captain. 

She hadn’t had a moment alone since agreeing to accompany them. If they were to continue sailing together they would need a bigger boat and Syrup Village seemed the ideal place to get one.  

Looking to her right she could see Luffy surveying the land a huge grin on his face. Zoro was stretching and yawning, how tired could this lazy ass be? Nami groaned internally, he had spent every moment he wasn’t glaring at her sleeping! 

“Hmmm.” Luffy muttered his eyes carefully surveying the bushes around them, they narrowed calculated even as his smile grew.  

Zoro stood to attention following Luffy’s eyeline hand on his sword, ready for his Captains order. Nami had watched the two interact as they sailed, seemingly moving as one, understanding the others motives in an instant, if she hadn't known they had only known each other a week, she would have bet they had grown up together.   

“We’re being watched!” Zoro muttered to advise the red head who instantly reached for her bo staff.  

Suddenly projectiles came at them from behind the bush, hitting the ground at their feet. Nami took cover behind Luffy with a squeal as he effortlessly avoided the hits. Zoro stood his ground; sword raised, the few shots he took not affecting him.  

“Hey!” Luffy called out voice petulant and his lower lip stuck out. “No fair, I’m wearing sandals.”  

Suddenly pirate flags revealed themselves from the bushes, surrounding the trio.  

“Whoa, that's so cool!” Luffy shook his arms in excitement, his sniper always had the best plots.

Nami however didn’t seem to agree asking if they were supposed to be impressed. Luffy pouted at the redhead; it was a smart plan he thought, it may not work on everyone, but it would make some East Blue pirates think twice about attacking.  

Finally, Usopp revealed himself standing strong in front of his flag laughing confidently.  

“I am Usopp, leader of the invincible nation of pirates who reign over this island! You stand before a living legend the most revered pirate who ever lived, I am the great Captain Usopp.”  

Luffy’s heart pounded happily in his chest as he watched Usopp, his brave warrior, standing his ground against three pirates who had docked on his island. He could tell the boy was afraid, from the slight vibrations in his knees, but he still stood strong.  

This was true bravery, being afraid but standing strong regardless. 

“Just know that planning a plot against this island would mean certain death, my army of 80 million super mean pirate soldiers would crush you like bugs!” Usopp held out his arms the flags around him moving up and down.  

Luffy couldn’t help it, he was so impressed by his sniper. “Awesome!”  

Nami and Zoro gave him a side-eye questioning how the captain could have fallen for the boy's ruse, but Luffy didn’t care as he carried on beaming at his sniper.  

“You expect us to believe that?” Nami asked brightly stepping out from behind Luffy.  

Luffy watched as Usopps confidence failed him, panic seeping in. Nami laughed as Usopp panicked above them.  

“Hey, leave him alone!” Luffy pouted at Nami, crossing his arms and sulking. “It was a cool plan.”    

“Curse you, you damn’d tactician, 80 million may have been an exaggeration, but I have a great many men under my control.” Usopp tried desperately to recover the situation.  

Zoro and Nami smirked at each other as Luffy continued to pout, he had been enjoying Usopp’s show, but silly Nami had to ruin it.  

“My guess is three.” Nami declared looking at Zoro who nodded in agreement.  

“Ah, she does know!” Three kids screamed before fleeing the scene in panic.  

Usopp called after his voice shaking, but held his ground as Nami stepped forward retrieving one of the projectiles from the floor.  

“A pirate using a slingshot huh?” She smiled inspecting the metal ball. “Now I’ve seen it all” 

Luffy laughed joyfully. “That’s pretty cool!”  

The rubber boy was taken aback as Usopp responded in anger threatening to shut his mouth. He hadn’t been making fun of Usopp, genuinely impressed the ingenuity of his plan. Had Usopp really been this self-conscious even then? 

“This is your last warning, or you’ll get to see why they call me proud Usopp and not pushover Usopp.”  

Luffy grinned to his swordsman, trusting him to understand. One look at Luffy’s eyes and Zoro could see the straw hat had claimed the boy, he raised his eyebrow checking Luffy was sure. The rubber boy nodded firmly declaring his intentions to his first mate.  

“Is that clear?” Usopp shouted. “You’ve already seen how good I am with this this, I could rival anyone with a pistol.”  

Zoro rolled his eyes as Luffy raised a hand to his hat, his captain could be so dramatic, but he’d let his captain have his fun.  

“Now that you’ve drawn your pistol are you willing to use it?” He grinned up from under the rim of his hat. “Guns aren’t for threats they’re for actions, are you willing to risk your life.”  

Zoro chuckled as he showed the rim of his sword, testing the snipers resolve.  

“I can assure you we are real pirates, consider your next move carefully.” Zoro called up his smirk dark.  

Luffy and Zoro stared down the sniper who remained locked in their vision weapon drawn. He held his position for as long as he could as his knees began to shake, the vibrations traversing up his body until he could no longer hold his shot. He fell to his knees sweat rolling down his face.  

“Real pirates definitely have a lot more punch behind their words because they can actually back them up, that's so cool!” Usopp cried to himself.  

Luffy stepped forward a laugh slowly bubbling in his core, Zoro joined his captain this kid was too easy.  

“I stole that!” Luffy admitted laughing. “I stole those words from Red Haired Shanks a pirate I know!”  

“Wait you know Red Haired Shanks, you really are a pirate! Do you really know him?” Usopp called out impressed. 

“Yup, I know your Dad too Yassop right?” Luffy grinned as Usopp fell from the cliff in his excitement. 

“You’re right, my old man's name is Yassop, but how in the world do you know him?” Usopp asked, his voice small.  

“It’s kind of a long story, why don’t we get some meat, and I’ll tell you all about it!” Luffy grinned as Nami and Zoro rolled their eyes why did it always come back to food with this guy. 

The crew enjoyed their meal as Luffy told the tale of how he had met the Red-Haired pirates as a child, ensuring to tell Usopp how proud his father was off his son. As they talked the sniper clung to every word, excited to hear about the parent he had never got to know.  

All the village ever said of his father was how he was a lowlife criminal who had abandoned his family, but Luffy spoke of his father with reverence obviously holding Yassop in high esteem.  

Luffy grinned as he flung the group of straw hats and Usopp pirates over the garden walls of Kaya’s mansion. He ensured to soften the landing not wanting to ruin kind-hearted girls' lawn.  

Kaya was just how Luffy remembered her, gentle and kind in the face of strange pirates crashing into her lawn. Unfortunately, the evil pirate butler was also just a Luffy remembered him, arrogant and self-entitled, how dare this sorry excuse of a human insult Yassop, if Usopp hadn’t taken action and punched the smirk from his face then Luffy may have killed him then and there.  

Luckily for the timeline Zoro had held Luffy back long enough for Usopp to get there first.  Luffy watched on impressed by Usopp’s resolve as he defended his father.  

Kaya begged for everyone to stop from her balcony, her kind heart not fit to face violence. Luffy couldn’t help but flinch as he remembered how Syrup Village had been wiped off the map shortly after Dawn, Kaya had deserved better.   

Luffy followed Usopp as he fled the scene, turning his back on the pirate he so desperately wanted to stomp into the ground, reminding himself this was Usopp’s fight and Luffy would not take that from him. He could hear the Usopp pirates defending their captain as he left a small smile finding its way to his face that Usopp had instilled such loyalty in them.  

Luffy followed Usopp to the cliff front, the sniper staring out to sea longingly.  

Luffy sighed as he settled down beside his sniper offering silent support as Usopp stewed in his anger. 

“What are you doing here?” Usopp demanded. “Did you follow me?”  

“I wanted to check you were alright, that stupid butler was pretty mean!” Luffy explained watching Usopp.  

“Yeah, how dare he insult my old man.” Usopp gripped his hands into fists angry.  

“I don’t care what anyone says your old man is a great pirate!” Luffy grinned remembering the good times he had spent training with the older man.  

“Really?” Usopp asked a small smile appearing on his face, curious to hear about the man from someone who actually knew him. “I’ve always looked up to my old man for living every day with his life on the line, out on the open ocean, he made a brave choice, and I admire him for that, then that stupid snotty butler stomped all over my pride, I’ll get him back for that.”  

“Good.” Luffy stated bluntly, he would make sure his friend got his revenge. “Your Dad would be proud of you for standing up for him.”  

“Yeah, well how dare that butler say I’m ashamed of my old man!” Usopp sneered.  

“Yeah, that damn stupid butler, even seeing his face makes me angry!” Luffy added pointing his hand to the seafront where the butler was walking with Jango. 

Usopp insisted they get closer to the suspicious duo so they could find out what was going on, they listened on in horror as Kuro’s plan was revealed.  

Luffy watched Usopp as he shook in fear, the truth dawning on him, his heart heavy as he realised how much danger his village and Kaya were in. Luffy wished he could put an end to this now and save the heart ache and pain for Usopp but it wasn’t fair to take away their experiences. Instead Luffy played the idiot, revealing himself from his cover to shout at the two scheming pirates. Allowing himself to fall for Jango’s cheap trick of hypnosis, falling asleep and over tumbling from the cliff edge.  

As he fell under, he forced himself to remember that everything would be fine, Usopp was strong and would make it through the trial to come.  

Luffy slept on blissfully, his brain finally switching off under the influence of Jangos hypnosis. 

Zoro and Nami followed the youngest Usopp pirates to the clifftop concerned to find Luffy’s passed out on the beach front below. Nami cried out in shock and concern, worried her friend had died in a terrible accident. Zoro looked closely, relieved when he could see his captain's chest rising and falling, the boy was alive, they just had to get down and make sure he was uninjured. 

As they approached, they could hear soft snores coming from the boy, Zoro paused unwilling to wake Luffy when he was actually getting some peaceful rest, but Nami had other plans kicking the captain shouting at him to; “Wake up you lazy bum!”  

“Good morning, guys” Luffy blinked awake looking at his crew as he stretched, his eyes wide.  

Zoro groaned looking at Luffy’s innocent face. “You know when you said you’d get some sleep on this island, I didn’t think you meant at the bottom of a cliff.”  

Luffy grinned shutting his eyes as he raised his hand bashfully to his head. “You didn’t give me any rules!”  

Zoro rolled his eyes fondly at his captain.  

“What were you doing sleeping down here anyway?” Nami asked her tone incredulous and her hands on her hips.  

“Oh, yeah... that butler is a liar and a bad pirate. He’s going to attack the village and kill that nice girl” Luffy exclaimed. “We need to find Usopp and help him!”  

“What!” The three Usopp pirates exclaimed. “Pirates are going to attack the village and they’re going to kill Kaya?”   

“Yup, that's what they said, no question about it!” Luffy exclaimed putting his hat back on his head firmly.   

“So...” Zoro demanded approaching his captain concerned, Luffy didn’t want to sleep at the best of times, never mind when there was an attack on the horizon. “What made you think it would be a good time for a nap?” 

“That’s the thing. I don’t remember going asleep or getting down here at all.” Luffy exclaimed happily.  

“See this is why you need regular sleep, you’re no use to anyone if you're passing out due to exhaustion!” Zoro lectured, he could hear Nami and the Usopp pirates discussing the safety of the village behind him.  

Sheepishly Luffy raised a hand to his hat, he knew that he hadn’t passed out due to exhaustion, but Zoro did have a point. He had been too reckless lately, forcing himself to avoid sleep while cramped on the boat. He promised himself that once they had Merry he would try and do better.  

“Sorry Zoro” Luffy muttered guilty. “I’ll do better”  

Zoro’s glare softened he had seen how afraid his captain was of sleep he just wanted Luffy at top form, he vowed to do anything he could to help keep the monsters at bay.  

They were interrupted by the three Usopp pirates rushing off towards the village.  

Luffy looked to the direction they were running his Haki registering Usopp, he could feel the young man's pain, they needed to go, their sniper needed them.  

When they found the boy Luffy could feel his despair, barely hidden as he spoke to the younger boys, lied to them to protect them. His laugh rang hollow to his ears, but the three boys easily brought the lie, adding salt to the wounds on Usopps heart. His village may have turned their back on him, but the straw hats would not.  

Luffy winced as Usopp cried out in pain as Nami cleaned his wounds, the village had hunted him down like a criminal and for what? Because the boy liked to tell a few harmless lies. Luffy was angry, how could these adults hunt down a child, shoot at him? It was despicable, and yet Usopp still cared.  

He still vowed to protect the village, he lied to keep them ignorant and safe.  

Luffy watched as Nami and Zoro’s respect for the sniper grew, they were impressed at his resolve, his bravery to stand up against an army of pirates alone, willing to put his life on the line.  

Zoro looked to his captain nodding his head in approval as he gripped his sword, this boy would make a suitable addition to the crew. “You’re a hell of a good guy sending your cronies away and going into battle alone.”  

“Just so you know I have dibs on all the pirate treasure.” Nami affirmed pledging her allegiance to Usopps cause.  

“So, you want a little help or what?” Luffy asked smiling at his sniper.  

“You guys, you’re gonna help me fight all these pirates I don’t get it.” The sniper looked to the group of pirates eyes wide in shock. 

“I don’t like pirates that give us a bad name.” Luffy affirmed stretching his limbs.  

“And you look scared out of your mind.” Zoro added supportively.  

“For your information I have nerves of steel, I’m perfectly okay with tons of bad guys after all you’re looking at the legendary Captain Usopp, brave warrior of the high seas.” The group of pirates raised their eyebrows watching the snipers' legs shake below him. “Okay fine I’m scared, why shouldn’t I be there captain Kuro’s men, these guys mean business, I don’t need pity, if you guys are sticking around cause you pity me just leave, I don’t need you guys laughing at me.”  

“Where not laughing at you” Zoro interrupted sternly. “We’re helping because you are honourable.”  

“You really think we’d risk our lives out of pity?” Luffy asked meeting Usopps watery eyes.  

“Y-you guys!” Usopp sobbed.  

The straw hats helped Usopp set his trap on the slope that connected the village to the shore. It was a smart plan, make it difficult for the droves of pirates to make ground on the hill while they could pick them off from their vantage point. Usopp always had the best plans thought Luffy as he happily assisted.  

It was a shame they were setting up on the wrong side of the island.  

As morning came Luffy tracked the pirates on the northern side of the island ensuring they wouldn’t make it close to the village. 

Nami was the first to realise the sounds of battle reaching her ears.  

Usopp panicked as his mistake became revealed, his plan ruined by the pirates arriving on a different coast.  

“It’s fine Usopp, we just have to get to the right place and stop them.” Luffy consoled.  

“The shore is just to the north, all we have to do is run there, the terrain is exactly the same so all we need to do is stop them at the slope.” Usopp advised scratching at his head.  

“Oh no, if those stupid pirates are already at the north shore, then they’ve seen our boats they’ll steal our precious treasure.” Nami panicked, clutching her bo staff tightly.  

Luffy grinned at Nami glad to see her priorities were still intact, he promised the girl he would get there in time to stop them before taking off.  

He ran into the treetops before slowing, falling back, out of view so his sniper could take the lead as they headed to the northern shore.  

Luffy watched from the shadows proudly as Usopp stood up to the Black Cat Pirates, bravely standing alone against them as they approached. He watched as Usopp pushed through his fear to try and scare the pirates into retreating, laughing silently as he heard Nami’s approach after Usopp tried to bribe the pirates with her hard-earned gold.  

Luffy stayed on the side-lines watching as Nami and Usopp made there stand, he laughed joyously as they bickered the two amongst themselves, the two always did have a special bond.  

Luffy’s joy was short lived when one of the pirates managed to make his way to the two, hammering his weapon into Usopps skull. Luffy’s blackened hand took chunks out of the tree beside him as he watched his snipers desperate stand to stop the pirates. His heart begging him to step forward and stop the pain his sniper was receiving as the cat themed crew continued to kick his fallen comrade. He held still listening as Usopp promised he would not let them hurt his village.  

His pain was overtaken by pride as Usopp stood through the pain, declaring that he would ensure the village remained ignorant of the attempted attack. It grew further as Nami defended Usopp, even as she was thwarted and thrown to the ground both remained determined. Luffy had seen enough, it was time for him to protect his crew. 

Luffy stood tall at the top of the hill, face dark under the shadow of his hat he watched as the pirates approached, watched as they trampled and shoved his crew, they would pay, every single one of them.  

Luffy felt Zoro arrive at his side the two moving forward as one, he felt the air pressure change as Zoro’s sword landed true, sending half the pirates flying back towards the shore. He raised his own fist, sending a barrage of punches in front of him ensuring the remaining pirates would follow them.  

Together they moved as one coming to a stop beside their fallen comrades.  

“Is that all they’ve got?” Zoro asked brow raised.  

“I was hoping for a challenge!” Luffy smirked holding his hand out for Usopp to take, gently helping the sniper to his feet as he shook in pain.  

“Well its about time!” Nami smirked holding her ribs as she pulled herself up to her knees. “What took you so long?”  

“You’re the one who pushed me down that oil slick so that you could get out” Zoro spluttered, angry at the navigator.  

Luffy tuned out the two arguing pirates turning to Usopp.  

“You okay?” Luffy asked voice low.  

“I’m glad to see you two, I thought we were goners.” Usopp declared, Luffy noted he had not answered his question.  

“You did well.” Luffy grinned stepping forward passed the sniper. “Now leave it to us!” 

“You two should get out of here!” Zoro cautioned as he stepped in line with his captain sword drawn.  

The two watched as the now hypnotised pirates made their way up the hill towards them, Luffy smirking to his right-hand man.   

“How about a little competition?” Luffy asked challenging. “Whoever downs the most wins!”  

Zoro smirked at the boy holding his sword to his mouth. “Get ready to lose captain.”  

Zoro was shocked as Luffy ran straight down the hill springing over pirates as he made his way to the Black Cats ship, as Zoro sliced and diced his way through the onslaught he watched impressed as Luffy lifted the mast from the Black Cats ship and charged forward holding it high.  

Luffy smirked waiving his new battering ram, he easily maneuverer it to thin the herd of pirates. Luffy continued his attack as the pirates fell before him until only Jango and Zoro remained standing on the hill.  

“You cheat!” Zoro grunted removing the sword from his mouth rolling his eyes.  

“I didn’t cheat.” Luffy grinned throwing the mast to the ground and coming up to stand at Zoro’s side.  

“Looks like those guys are out for the count.” Nami grinned at the captain as her and Usopp stumbled forward.  

“They were weaklings.” Zoro smirked as they watched Jango whine about failing his captain. 

The group paused as they heard voices come from the damaged ship, Jango calling his trump card the Meowban brothers to arms.  

Luffy looked to his swordsman, he had been out for the count the first time so surely, he would have no problem with this fight. “You got this Zoro?”  

Zoro nodded holding his stance firm. 

Luffy took a step back joining Nami and Usopp, support Usopps weight as they retreated a safe distance from battle. He was shocked as he tracked Shams movements the agile cat like pirate easily snatching two of Zoro’s swords, saw as Zoro desperately trying to regain them as Sham danced around him.  

Luffy watched with a critical eye as Zoro struggled through the battle noting how disadvantaged Zoro was without his swords, how easily the feline pirates kept him on the defensive. He would have to ensure Zoro worked hard to get stronger to overcome this weakness.  

Luffy felt Usopp shift beside him, confidently lining up a shot to try and help Zoro gain an advantage, as the shot flew true Luffy sent forward an arm plucking the projectile from the air.  

“He was trying to help idiot!” Nami screamed at Luffy as the rubber boy returned his arm to normal holding out the projectile for a shocked Usopp to take back.  

“Zoro is strong, he will win.” Luffy determined staring ahead, his eyes following the battle. 

“They are all over him, if only we could get one of his swords....” Nami whispered looking over to where they lay unguarded.  

They were interrupted by the sound's of gasps coming from the Black Cat Pirates.  

Luffy’s eyes narrowed as he followed their eyeline to the clifftop catching sight of Captain Kuro standing tall his face a mask of disgust as he took in the scene.  

Luffy had to take a deep breath as he watched the way Kuro treated his crew, the shameless way he disregarded them, threatened them as he used an archaic form of haki to speed around the field.  

Luffy could easily track the captains' movements as he hopped around slicing the Meowban Brothers clothes to shreds using his cat claws. Luffy was unimpressed at the show of power his anger starting to bubble to the surface as the butler gave his ultimatum to the crew.  

Luffy could feel Nami sneaking around the field, the cat burglar swiftly making her way to the swordsman's discarded swords. He smirked to himself, once Zoro had his swords the Meowban brothers would be kitten kibble.  

While his Zoro dealt with them the captain could deal with the stupid butler, he approached closer holding Kuro in his sights.  

“You know a good pirate respects their crew, and has the crews respect in return.” Luffy addressed, his tone forced into a casual tone.  

“Who are you to say what a good pirate is?” Kuro looked at the boy coldly a brow raised.  

“I’m the future king of the pirates.” Luffy smirked before releasing his fist aiming straight for Kuro’s face.  

As his fist rocketed through the air he saw Kuro step forward to the balls of his feet, affectively he dodged the fist as he turned his body slashing his claws through the air.  

Luffy watched in horror as Usopp pushed Kaya out of the way taking deep wounds to his back. He had been too cocky and Usopp had gotten hurt. The sight of red blood flowing from the wounds had Luffy’s brain freezing the sounds of drums starting to echo in his mind.  

He fell to his knees in shock.  

He brain detached from the situation, focusing on the steadily growing crescendo of drums echoing around his mind. Distantly he could see Kaya making her stand against Kuro, a gun held in shaking hands. He watched as the other captain disarmed her, verbally destroying the kind heated girl.  

Luffy begged his body to move, for the rage bellowing in his ears to quiet down so he could think. His haki clung to Usopp’s anger tangible as it echoed against his own, something inside his roared, begging to be released, a hunger that wanted to rip the butler pirate to pieces, one that wasn't entirely his own.  

It was Usopp who moved first grabbing the fallen gun and raising it to the pirates' head, but before he could pull the trigger Kuro moved, faster than the human eye could track the butler held Usopps head between his claws.  

An inhuman growl ripped from Luffy’s throat as he watched Kuro threaten the life of his sniper. This man would not do any more damage. Luffy’s wrist unwound blackening with power as he struck true into Kuro’s face. 

Luffy’s breath heaved as he tried to force his brain back under control, to force the sound of drumming to retreat.  

Before anyone could move the young Usopp pirates arrived on scene driving pots and pans into Kuro’s face. Kaya and Usopp watched on in horror as the three children stood their ground in front of the murderous pirate, begging them to from the battlefield.

The sniper thanked whatever gods were listening when the butler pirate ignored the kids in favour of kicking him once more into the ground. He would take the pain to protect his family.  

The drums hit a crescendo as Luffy watched drowning out the sound of Kuro giving the order to have everyone killed. He could not turn his head away from his sniper broken and bleeding on the ground, still fighting through the pain. He gave the order for his trio of pirates to protect Kaya, to help her escape, as injured as he was, he was still trying to protect the ones he loved. Luffy could see the truth, could see the man Usopp was beneath it all, a warrior, one who would lay down his own life if it meant protecting others.  

His impassioned plea broke through his crews resolve ensuring they took Kaya to seek shelter. As they fled Usopp raised his trembling broken hands, his shot remaining steady as he hit his target providing a moments cover for them to flee.  

Enough, Luffy was done, and Kuro was going to pay.  

Rising to his feet he silently approached the butler his aura blackening as his anger took hold, it was palatable and thick in the air. Close by Black Cats fainted at his feet as he passed, unable to bare the thick weight falling from the straw hat.  

He could tell the moment Kuro became aware of his approach, could feel a burst of fear as the boy drew closer, he was going to kill him. Lucky for the butler a noise from the woods drew Luffy’s attention, he would never ignore a member of his crew's pain. Usopp quivered as he pushed himself weakly to his feet, pushing himself to face Captain Kuro.  

Luffy felt Zoro appear on his right, his Haki automatically drawing the swordsman in ensuring he did not feel the effect.  

“This guys hopelessly evil.” Zoro muttered to his captain, sensing a bloodthirsty anger from Luffy he had not felt before. 

Luffy nodded angrily, surrounding himself in Zoro’s aura to try to drown out the drums.  

“I’m going to put him out of his misery.” He warned Zoro in a whisper, knowing that the swordsman would understand the darkness that was taking hold. He held firm to the remaining slither of sanity, not long now he consoled the beast, he just had to protect his crew.  

He called across to the broken sniper, his voice sickly sweet with fake smiles. “Hey, go protect the others, Nami you too, don’t worry we’ll take care of this guy.”  

Zoro nodded; they didn’t need to see what was to come. “Go on!” Zoro encouraged, his grip tightening on his sword.  

Nami nodded making her way to Usopp who was weakly making his way forward.  

Kuro laughed as Usopp lost his footing falling to the ground as he desperately grabbed for purchase. 

Kuro’s laughs echoed around Luffy’s brain thrumming along with the drum beats.  

“It hurts.” Usopp admitted defeated. “It hurts so bad I can’t move.”  

The words cut Luffy like glass.  

“Usopp.” Nami muttered sadly as they were forced to listen to Kuro continue to taunt him.  

The red haired girl made it to the sniper gripping him tightly she tried to carry him from the slope but it was no good, her legs buckled under the weight causing Usopp to collapse back to the floor.  

“Even if you did catch up to Jango, he’d end your life in a blink of an eye, staying there is whats best for you!” Kuro taunted, Luffy growled, this butler was testing his already thin patience.  

“I don’t care, I don’t care that I’m weak I’ll protect them, I’m captain of the Usopp pirates, a brave warrior of the sea, I will protect everyone in the village if it kills me, on my word you will never set foot in that village.”  

The gathered Black Cat Pirates started laughing, Luffy adding them all to his mental list of the dead.  

Zoro caught Luffy’s eyes seeing the fire inside, a burning inferno ready to alight anything in its way. He recognised the look of someone about to lose control and knew his captain would want the others protected from what was to come. He needed to get them out of here.  

Quicker than Zoro could see Luffy moved to grab a nearby boulder effortlessly lifting it up and throwing it at the gathered pirates.  

“What’s so funny!” The boy screamed trembling under the strain to remain in control. 

Zoro quickly made his way to Usopp lifting him effortlessly to his shoulder. Nodding at Nami to follow he addressed his captain.  

“Luffy, I’m taking these guys to go after the hypno freak, is that a problem?” Zoro quickly let his captain know they would be leaving, it would be okay, he could let go.  

“No, hurry” Luffy spat confident that Zoro could get them away from the scene in time.  

As Zoro made to leave, he found his path blocked by the butler pirate himself, but before he could say a word Luffy reached out a vibrating hand, slamming Kuro’s head to the ground and urging his swordsman to get going.  

Luffy walked slowly towards the butler, like a tiger approaching its prey. 

A distant echo of drums and laughter seemed to thrum around the field, the boy’s eyes had a glint of red around the iris as he moved up the slope.  

Kuro realising this kid was more powerful than he seemed tried to retreat from the vicinity watching as his mens blood vessels burst under the thick blackness the boy was emitting. 

He watched as man after man was felled by the boy's strange ability.  

If the boy wanted to play dirty, then he also had some tricks left up his sleeve.  

Kuro stood at the top of the cliff staring down at the strange straw hatted boy and what remained of the Black Cat Pirates. It was time for his ultimate move, one that would fall any in his path. Loosing himself to the power that he felt under his skin he closed his eyes, falling forward he allowed his claws to unfurl ready to slash out and finally be done with this boy.  

As he slashed forward, he could taste the blood in the air, he smiled as he prepared himself for victory, then everything stopped.  

He opened his eyes to meet the brown eyes of the straw-hat captain, he was shocked to realise the boy had his claws held in his hands, the sharp metal not phasing the boy at all. In fact, the boy was smiling teeth as white as his hair, the brightness burning Kuro’s blackened soul.  

Belatedly Kuro realised he had made a grave miscalculation. The full weight of Luffy’s power bore down on him causing his organs to explode under the pressure. The last sight Kuro saw was the flash of fresh red blood appearing over the boy's bright face.  

Luffy blinked as he came back to consciousness.  

He found himself drained, knelt in the shallow of the sea, the water around him flowing red.  

How had he got here?  

Where was his crew?  

The last Luffy remembered was watching Kaya as she confronted Kuro at the top of the slope, but now he was alone.  

Looking around Luffy was puzzled as he saw the Black cats ship floating gently on the water.  

Blinking Luffy felt a familiar presence approach him.  

“You okay Captain?” Zoro asked tone careful.  

“What happened?” Luffy asked, he tried to wrack his brain searching for answers, but a blackness shrouded his mind.  

“You don’t remember?” Zoro asked kneeling down in the water beside his captain, meeting his eyes with a careful guarded look.  

“I... I don’t, we were facing Kuro and then it’s all blank.” Luffy looked at his hands seeing they were stained red.  

Zoro nodded to himself deciding.  

“You defeated Kuro, saved the village.” Zoro smirked his eyes tight.  

“I did?” Luffy questioned, it felt wrong.  

“You did, sent them packing.” Zoro confirmed, nodding to the ship floating away on the horizon. “I don’t think they’ll be returning anytime soon.”  

“T-that’s good” Luffy's exhaustion caught up to him, causing him to topple forward unconscious.  

Zoro caught his Captain in his arms.  

He was forever grateful he had sent Usopp and Nami onward to town for the sniper to seek medical attention while he checked on his captain, the sight he had found when he had arrived would make the toughest men stomachs churn. His captain had been knelt unresponsive in a river of red, blood and guts flowing freely down the hill to the shore.   

Zoro had carefully cleaned up the scene ensuring that all traces of the massacre were carefully hidden from the world. Once satisfied the swordsman sent the ship out to sea, doomed to float to the bottom of the ocean, his captains' secrets with it.  

Zoro had killed his share of people, far from an innocent, but the darkness that lurked beneath his captains jovial exterior was concerning. Zoro couldn’t say he felt bad that Kuro had met his end, but he did worry for his captain, concerned that he would lose the boy to the shadows that lurked in his head. Perhaps it was for the best he couldn’t remember what had happened.  

He watched the boy as he slept, peaceful. The boy had such a drive for life, drawing everyone into his light effortlessly. He could admit to himself that Luffy had saved him revived him from the monotony of endlessly tracking down his next prey, given him something to believe in. He could see how Nami so withdrawn and suspicious would shine around the boy, laugh in a free way that shook off what ever shackles she was carrying around. How Usopp had preened as Luffy complemented him, bringing out the best in him even in the short time they had met the boy. Sat here in the sea washing the blood from his captains' hands Zoro made a promise, he would not let the darkness win.  

Lifting his captain from the sea Zoro carried Luffy to the shore protecting him silently as he recovered from his ordeal.  

Nami and Usopp soon joined the two pirates, Nami loudly voicing her disapproval that they had allowed the Black Cats to escape without stealing any precious treasure. Sue Zoro, he hadn’t considered the treasure when trying to clean up his captains' mess. They sat together on the slope where they had made their stand as life in Syrup Village continued peacefully around them.  

Luffy kept looking around as they ate, he could feel Zoro's sharp gaze tracking him as he moved.  

Luffy pulled his hat into his hands looking at it longingly, he would give nothing more than to speak to his dad, but under his swordsman’s watchful eyes he could not find a moment to slip away.  

“Oh, here you are guys!” Kaya stated approaching the group.  

“Are you alright being out of bed?” Nami questioned concerned.  

“Yes, I think now I can really start to recover, you see my sickness this last year was due to the sudden loss of my parents, and Usopps friendship has really helped me. I can’t stay in bed forever you know!” Kaya smiled. “You’ve all done so much for me I cannot thank you enough, I have prepared a present for you all from the bottom of my heart to show how grateful I am for all that you’ve done here. I’d be honoured if you’d accept it!”  

Luffy allowed a wide grin to come to his face as they made their way to the harbour.  

Merry awaiting them floating on the sea ready to carry them forward to their adventures.  

Luffy sent out an extended arm pulling himself into Merry’s figurehead gently stroking the ram, his heart pouring his love into the wood.  

He could feel Merry respond underneath him, warming under his touch. 

The moment was disturbed by Usopp barrelling down the hill, quickly Luffy and Zoro brought him to a stop, ensuring no damage came to their ship.  

Luffy and Zoro exchanged looks as Usopp declared his intention to hit the high seas and his wishes that he would run into them again one day.  

Smiling widely Luffy extended his hand to Usopp asking him to join them on their adventure, eagerly pulling him on board when he accepted.  

As night fell around them Zoro withdrew some Sake and the crew shared a cup under the watchful eye of the moon, watching as his captain smiled happily as they drank. 

Chapter Text

Sanji had been running and fighting for what felt like days, pirates and marines alike falling from the fire of his legs. Nami had remained held securely in his arms too weak to carry her own weight. Sanji had been searching, determined to make it back to his captain. Once they were together again everything would be fine.  

As he ran, he could hear the distant sounds of war and death, he barely blinked at the screaming, but Nami flinched with each one piercing through her battered brain.   

A sudden heat informed the chef just in time to turn from his path, throwing himself into a roll to the right Sanji narrowly avoided the lava that surged towards him.   

“Slippery little brat, aren’t you?” A sneering voice came from the figure emerging from the orange projectile. “Shame the rest of your crew haven’t been so lucky.”   

Sanji froze, his heart stuttering to a stop. Him and Nami hadn’t seen or heard from a member of the crew in days, he had prayed to anyone who would listen that they had all been okay, that by some miracle they would find their way back together. It was a childish hope.   

The sound of Akainu’s cold laugh brought Sanji back to reality.   

“That long nosed one was too easy to hit, wasn’t even worth finishing off that one, not that he could do anything without his arm.”   

Sanji didn’t think he just moved, gently placing Nami on the ground out of the way he gently stroked her face as she whimpered reaching for him, “Sanji, don’t...”  

But the chef wasn’t listening, his legs lighting up with blue flames as he threw himself forward. “Don’t you talk about Usopp like that!”    

As Sanji’s leg blackened with the power of his haki he struck true, smacking into the back of the Marines head knocking him from his feet. As the marine was launched to the floor, he raised a magma fist prepared to skewer the chef in two, but before he could make impact a cold feeling enveloped his arm, a sickeningly familiar cold.   

“Not so fast.” A figure approached from the trees, coming to a stop before the fallen Fleet admiral who shook the ice from his wrist.  

A dog like laugh escaped the admirals' lips, as he rose determined to his feet. “We’ve been through this before, you want to lose again Aokiji?”   

“You should run Straw-hat" Aokiji stepped forward ice spreading as he stepped, spreading out to encase the field as Sanji backed away back to Nami braced to protect her from either man.    

“Shouldn’t you be busy following after you’re captain, you dirty pirate” Sakazuki smirked at his former colleague lava dripping from his arms.  

“I’m free to go wherever I want.” The ice devil user threw up a wall encircling the two former colleagues, blocking the two straw hat's view.  

“Straw-hat!” A gruff voice broke free from the trees. “With us, now, this won’t hold the mad dog long.”  

Sanji blinked looking around for the person who had spoken, shocked to find a familiar figure stood in the trees, arms crossed and two cigars in mouth.  

Sanji dropped into a fighting stance trying to block Nami from view.  

“Don’t do anything stupid Straw-hat, I’m not here to kill you, yet.” Smoker growled.  

“Sanji, we should run, try and get to Luffy.” Nami weakly touched the back of Sanji’s leg grounding him.    

“Please don’t run.” A different figure emerged from the trees, one with pink hair and a familiar smile. “We’re here to bring you somewhere safe, I give you my word as an honourable marine.”  

“You’re Luffy's friend.” Nami murmured, trying to push herself to her feet.  

“Koby.” The figure informed with a small smile. “Please come with us, we have doctors.”  

Sanji glanced at Nami, noting the dried blood on her head and the way her eyes couldn’t focus even days later, he nodded shortly before picking the red head up gently. As they made their way from the field, they could smell burning flesh and hear a choked scream from behind the wall of ice.  

Sanji was surprised and thankful as the two marines led them deeper into the wilderness through winding paths that he would not have found on his own, suddenly they came to a large clearing, even more shocking was the sheer amount of tents gathered around all with differing flags, some Marines, some pirates the majority held the symbol of the Revolutionaries.   

He was led deeper through the base towards a large tent set up in the centre, the chef could hear an argument coming from inside.  

“We will go with my plan” Sanji stepped inside the tent to see the leader of the revolutionaries Monkey D Dragon and the marine hero Garp standing nose to nose spitting in each other's face.  

“You’re a fool if you think that we can win this while divided, the Sakazuki alone is a powerhouse if the dragons themselves appear we are finished, not to mention they have that damned pirate Shanks acting under them and then you have Blackbeard, if he gets to the treasure then it’ll be no better than what we have now.” Garp shouted back his fist alight with power.  

Smoker entered the tent walking straight up to the two Monkey D’s. “We’ve lost Aokiji, but we recovered two of the straw hats.”  

Garp and Dragon continued to glare at each other, both had steam flooding from their ears ignoring the other marine.  

“Sanji! Nami” A happy voice approached from the outskirts of the tent.  

“Sabo?” Sanji asked blinking at the figure who smiled back behind a disfigured face, the remains of his top hat in scraps on his head.  

“I’m glad you are both okay, I know my brother will be happy to see you.” Sabo smiled warmly his mouth stretching grotesquely.  

“You’ve seen Luffy!” Sanji burst out a feeling of happiness and relief appearing for the first time in days, he could see Nami brighten up in his arms.  

“Well no, but we have an idea where he is, we ran into you’re shipwright a day ago, Frankie, he’s currently leading a team back to the Lu so we should make contact any time now.” Sabo explained.  

“Frankies alive, good.” Sanji nodded. “Did you hear that Nami, Frankies taking a team to Luffy now, I’m sure our ridiculous captain is so close to the treasure. We just got to wait a bit longer okay?”  

“Sure Sanji, we got this.” Nami raised a shaking thumbs up.  

“What is all this anyway, never expected a group of marines to come help us?” Sanji queried.  

“Apparently the old man had been keeping secrets, there’s a faction of marines called SWORD who are out to protect the innocents of the world, don’t get me wrong they aren’t too happy to be teaming up with pirates and Rev’s, but it’s that or the Marines who have been burning countries to the ground.” Sabo explained turning to look toward the father and son duo who had returned to arguing while Smoker watched on unimpressed and Koby fussed around trying to get the men to stop.  

“How about the ice guy, last we heard he was with Blackbeard.” Sanji pressed curious.  

“Ah, they’ve had people undercover for years, even Law is connected to them, he’s around here somewhere.”  

“LAW!” Sanji spluttered shocked.  

“His father was one of the founding members” Sabo shrugged. “We should probably get you both to him, he’s been helping patch us up after Kuma... well he’s acting head doctor. Let's leave these hard heads to hash things out, I'll bring you to his tent."   

Luffy took a deep breath drawing oxygen to his lungs, chasing away the taste of iron thick on his tongue, from where he bit down waking himself up.  

Closing his eyes he allowed the feeling of merry around him to calm his beating heart, he wasn’t there, not anymore, never again.  

He closed his eyes concentrating his haki on the crew sleeping around him, focusing on the sounds of their breathing, in and out.  

Soon he reminded himself he would have half his crew back where they belong, home. 

Talking to Shanks had helped calm Luffy’s frazzled nerves, his father's jovial nature a balm to Luffy’s fears. He had carefully listened to Luffy’s tales of his adventures so far, they had both been concerned with Luffy’s lack of memory of the end of his fight on Syrup Village.  

He may not have the best memory for things like names and places, but he had never before forgotten a fight. The more Luffy tried to remember what had happened that day the more a sharp blinding pain would shoot across the boy's brain.  

Coupled with Zoro’s concerned glances when he thought Luffy wasn’t looking it had Luffy concerned.  

Shaking the thoughts from his head Luffy rose from his perch on Merry’s mast.  

No matter what had happened his crew was safe, that was the only thing that mattered. 

Zoro groaned from where he was trying to nap, blinking one eye open he watched as Luffy and Usopp charged around the deck launching cannon balls out to sea. The sniper certainly brought out a side of the captain that made it difficult to get rest, but the swordsman couldn’t hold it against long nosed boy as he chased the shadows from the captains' eyes.  

Laughter had become a regular sound aboard Merry, chasing away the stress of their first few weeks at sea. Luffy flourished on the Merry often found bouncing around the ship causing chaos, the first time Zoro had seen the rubber boy act truly free.  The boy may have pretended to be carefree those first few weeks but there had been a falsehood to every action a double guessing and tightness around the eyes that would not fade. Something about the Merry and Usopp brought out a new side to the captain that had Zoro privately smiling to himself.  

The further away they got from Usopps hometown the more Zoro could convince himself that the sights he had seen had been a figment of his imagination, the bouncing bundle of joy that was his captain could not be capable of such darkness.  

“Hey, Usopp, is it just me or is there people on that rock?” Luffy queried his head turned as he looked out to sea where they had just launched a cannon.  

“Hmm” Usopp muttered bringing his telescope to his eye, Zoro could see as his eyes focused on the nearby rock tightening as he strained to look before going wide in shock.  

“Oh no, we killed them, I’m a murderer!” The long-nosed boy panicked causing Zoro to roll his eyes. 

“Wait, what?” Nami’s shocked exclaim cut through the air, coming over to take a look her body tense. As she looked out the tension eased turning to frustration. “Dead people don’t move you idiot!”  

Nami hit the sniper over the head before turning completive.  

“You know we really should see if they need any help, after all you did hit them with a cannon. Plus they may be so thankful and give us lots of gold!” Nami started to drool at the thought of treasure.  

“Shishishishi, well in that case...” Luffy stood at the edge of the ship stretching his arms out to the stranded people on the rock before depositing them on the ship.  

“Luffy, you can’t go around grabbing people out of nowhere.” Zoro shouted standing up ready if the strangers wanted to start something.   

“Sorry.” Luffy grinned stretching his cheeks wide.  

“You need to take this seriously you never know who you could be dragging on board...”  

“Big bro Zoro!” One of the figures exclaimed.  

“Wait, Johnny and Yosaku?” 

“Big bro you gotta help us, Yosaku isn’t doing so good.”  

“Wait you know these two?”  

Once Nami had helped Yosaku back to health and they decided to head to the Baratie to pick up a chef Luffy took a moment to himself in the captains quarters below the deck.  

In another life Luffy had no wish to have his own room away from his crew but in this one he need privacy, a place he could seek solitude with his mind. A place he could speak to his father and grandfather without having to worry about who was listening.   

Taking a seat on the floor Luffy focused his Haki inwards, organising his thoughts on what was to come. This was it the beginning of the most difficult trials he would need to overcome in the east blue. A lot of good things had come from their visit to the pirate's restaurant, (finding his Sanji) but so had a lot of pain. It had been here that Nami had felt the need to return to Arlong, fear driving her away from her family. This was also the place Zoro had received his scars. What hurt the most was the knowledge he could not change either of these events.  

Nami needed to learn how to trust, and Zoro would never forgive Luffy if he stood in front of him and his dream. Luffy had to accept he could not protect his crew from every scar, he had to endure their pain.  

He had been feeling more settled than he had since his journey began, the demons of the future retreating to the far precipice of his mind but worried the next few trials would set him back. He sighed as he felt the ship pulling into the Baratie, everything would be okay, he just needed to remember that they would come out of these waters stronger for all they had gone through.  

It pained Luffy to send Fullbody’s cannonball flying through the roof of the restaurant, but he needed the excuse of being a chore boy to get close to Sanji, so with a grimace he redirected the projectile, this time around ensuring it didn’t hit anyone, only causing minor structural damage to the ship, something that made the captain internally wince.  

Once the dust had settled on his agreement with Zeff to be a chore boy for the restaurant to earn back the repairs cost Luffy happily threw the door open to the main restaurant to the scene of Sanji's attack. “For my first job did you want me to help the staff beat this man up?”  

“What!”  

Luffy laughed joyful as he watched Sanji try to rip Fulbody’s head from its body, the other chefs trying in vain to hold him back.  

This truly was a pirate restaurant, rowdier than any he had seen in the new world.  

Zeff however seemed less impressed with the scene in front of them, kicking his charge to put a halt to his rampage before firmly putting Fullbody to the ground.  

Before the marine could recover Gin appeared. Luffy no longer a stranger to the pangs of real starvation felt Sanji’s pain as they watched the other chefs decline the man a meal. Luffy could see the respect in Zeff’s eyes as he watched Sanji silently make his way to the kitchen to prepare food for the emaciated pirate.  

The sound of Sanji preparing food in the kitchen overwhelmed Luffy with a warm feeling of home, his cook was the best on the seas and had a large heart for helping the helpless even though he tried to hide it.  

Luffy silently followed Sanji as brought he brought the desperate man his kindly prepared feast. A sad smile appearing on the rubber boys face as he heard Sanji speak of pride, he knew that the Chef had his own war against his pride that he would spend years overcoming. 

Taking a deep breath Luffy made his presence known throwing a goofy grin to his face he lent over the railings to demand Sanji take his rightful place on the straw-hat crew.  

Shocked Sanji spluttered as he declined the offer to become a pirate, a fact Luffy refused to accept, unlike Nami the chefs decline came from a place of self-sacrifice, something Luffy would have to help the cook overcome.  

Sanji was worthy of his dreams and Luffy would ensure he knew it. 

As the conversation grew into bickering between the two Gin watched the tennis match as he ate.  

“I’m sorry to interrupt.” Gin brought the two from their argument. “You say that you're a pirate yourself what is it you seek. “ 

Luffy looked to Gin accessing the man before grinning wildly, “We’re going to travel the grand line and achieve our dreams!”  

Luffy frowned as Sanji’s lips downturned at Luffy’s words, he wished he could help his cook ease his pains.  

“The Grandline isn’t a place for rookies' kid, you can’t have a large crew if you’ve not even a cook yet.” Gin advised gently. 

“I’ll have my crew in no time, just you wait Sanji may only be the fourth member but the fifth will be ready soon and then we just need to get to the Grandline to get the rest.” Luffy advised knowingly nodding. 

“I told you I’m not going so don’t count me!” Sanji screamed at the rubber boy who politely ignored his silly cook.  

“You seem like an alright kid so let me give you some friendly advice, the grandline is a place you want to avoid” Gin looked past Luffy, looking into the horrors he had experienced but couldn’t remember. “You’re still young so there’s no need to rush into anything, remember the grandline is only one part of the ocean there are plenty of other places to explore. “  

Luffy’s face darkened a knowing determined look overtaking his young features aging him. “The grandline may be full of danger, but I’m willing to overcome any danger so my crew can achieve their dreams.”  

Sanji looked at the kid in awe, he had sacrificed so much of his dream, given everything to the man who gave him his leg, but this kid struck a chord within him, as he looked at the Straw hatted captain Sanji could see it, the All Blue.  

He shook his head, no, he had to stay here to help keep the old man's dream alive, he didn’t deserve to see his dream, he was worthless.  

Sanji spluttered in shock when the straw hatted boy met his eyes, his gaze cutting the chef to his soul.  

“What’s your dream?” The boy asked eyes alight.  

“It doesn’t matter.” Sanji said breaking eye contact and looking out to sea, smoking his cigarette sadly.  

Luffy followed his gaze coming up to stand beside his chef, his tone serious. “Of course, it matters, when we give up on our dreams we may as well give up on living.” 

Sanji sighed glancing at the boy before throwing his cigarette over the edge and lighting another, turning away from the two pirates he headed back inside without a word, not seeing his father figure sadly watching from the shadows.  

Luffy watched as Sanji worked around the restaurant his anger and resentment at the world coming out in his interactions with the customers and the other chefs. It made Luffy sad that he hadn't seen the effect Sanji's upbringing had on his chef until it was too late, he vowed that this time he would help Sanji overcome his past sooner so he could drop his pretence and become the man Luffy had come to know. 

As Sanji and Zeff came to blows over Zeff insisting Sanji leave to join his crew Luffy frowned. He appreciated Zeff trying to get the blond to chase his dreams but the knew how the elderly chefs words about Sanji's worth would cut the boy to his core. He saw as Sanji redirected his negative feelings' into the safety of flirting unashamedly with Nami, fawning over her in a way that kept her at a safe distance, unattainable. 

It amazed Luffy what foresight could allow him to see, of course Sanji treated women like goddesses, it was a safe way of keeping them at arms lengths if he treated them as above him they would never see him as an equal and get to know the real him, the him only his mother and sister had ever been able to see. 

It was safe. 

As Sanji headed outside Luffy followed. 

"You know Nami hasn't joined my crew yet." Luffy muttered looking out to sea. "She's not ready yet, so for now she's my friend." 

Sanji clicked his fingers smirking. "Well there goes any reason to join you." 

"I have a reason to give you, you say your dream doesn't matter, but it would, to me." Luffy declared his eyes ablaze. 

Sanji sighed looking out to the horizon, silence falling over the two, as Sanji starred he saw a ship appearing on the horizon. 

"Shit, that looks like trouble." Sanji muttered glad for the reprieve from the conversation.

"Maybe Gin is just coming back to thank you." Luffy suggested. 

"Doubt it." Sanji responded before heading back inside to warn the other chefs. 

Luffy was mad at Don Krieg as the man pushed his chef to the floor after he had fed the starving captain. His anger grew as the man crushed Gin's arm in his own, it was one thing to attack a stranger but his own first mate? What was it with bad pirates who had no care for their crew in the East Blue? 

At least the Captain wouldn't let his crew starve ordering the Baratie to prepare a feast for his crew before he would take the ship for himself. 

Luffy watched as Sanji brought himself to his feet prepared to make a feast for the starving crew only to be stopped by the other chefs, he could see the passion in Sanji's eyes to ensure that no one went starving, a passion shared with his father figure who provided the Maniacal Captain with enough food to feed the starving crew even as it doomed his own dream. 

He would take great joy in helping stop this over confident pirate, no wonder he hadn't been able to make it in the Grand Line, but first they would have to contend with a different challenge, one that would be harder for Luffy to face.

Chapter Text

A rope tightened on Luffy’s heart as he felt Nami’s resolve, it had begun.

He had been feeling his navigators turmoil all day, forcing himself to keep his composure as he tried to remain calm in the face of Krieg’s threats to overtake the Baratie, he would not ruin this by acting rashly. Krieg and his crew were weak, Luffy could easily crush his armada in seconds, and watching him abuse his chef he really wanted to, a familiar anger clouding him as he tried to stay in the moment, this fool was an important cog in the events that were taking place and so he reluctantly let the man leave food in hand to recover his army.  

He watched on disassociating as Gin retold his story of horror at being attacked in the Grand Line, his focus firmly on his navigator and her pain, was he making a mistake? Allowing her to go back alone, afraid.

He had approached her as friend, never once asking her to join them in the hope she would be able to let him in, but just like before she had felt the need to pretend and run at the first reminder of her shackles.  

 He forced himself back to his present as he heard Zoro announce his goal to defeat Mihawk and take his title for his own.  

Blinking he looked at his right hand man, he had always admired how driven Zoro was, the two sharing a blind certainty they would achieve their ambition. Something Luffy felt he had lost, the thing that had carried him through to the last island, but couldn't get them all to the end.  

“Finally, my life’s goal will be achieved on the Grandline, my rival he’s out there somewhere, and I’m going to find him.” Zoro determined, confident that no other outcome was possible, Luffy ached as he remembered how naive his Swordsman was in this time.  

“Are you that stupid, it’s idiots like you guys who end up dead” Luffy flinched as the chefs' blunt words hit him. He was right, their captain had led them all to their deaths, and here he was once again selfishly setting sail with blind hope for a different outcome.  

Luffy felt Zoro’s eyes on him, narrowing subtly as he took in his captain's downtrodden face. “That may be true but lay off the name calling. I’ve devoted my whole life to becoming the world's greatest swordsman, I’ve made my choice so I’m the only one who gets to call me stupid.”  

Luffy met Zoro’s eyes, could see the determination in them, he was right it was his choice, he understood the risks but they would face them together.

He glanced at Usopp seeing his sniper standing there, even though he was afraid of the stories Zeff had told of the Grandline he had a determined glint in his eye as he smiled at Zoro’s words, Luffy remembered how the boy had stood strong against the Black Cat Pirates, how his sniper had stood tall as they declared war on the world government. He deserved to become the version of himself he dreamed of. 

He thought of Nami, even now sailing back to her captor, running to the life she had struggled under for so long; single handily fighting to protect her village, working for her mother's murderer, he remembered how his Navigator shone atop of Merry and later Sunny ruling over the ocean like the queen she was. 

He looked to Sanji, so reluctant to follow his dreams. Who had lied and hid for so long thinking he was unimportant, replaceable, never truly believing he deserved to see his dream. He thought of how the blond came so far, finally trusting the crew, willingly showing them his flaws, allowing them to fill the dark holes of his past with so much light that he could finally see his worth. He thought of how the Chef had finally let himself chase what he truly wanted and how him and Zoro had flourished together, learning how to be better for the other.  

In this moment Luffy realised the weight of Zoro’s words, he understood, though they may pay the ultimate price, it was worth it for the chance to chase their dreams. 

Luffy grinned wildly at his swordsman, even as his eyes filled with unshed tears. “Yup, stupid we may be, but we are going to make our dreams come true!” He cheered for emphasis.  

Usopp joined in agreement. 

“What morons.” Sanji muttered making both Luffy and Zeff eye him sadly.  

“Enough!” Patty interrupted reminding the room of their impending army gathering.  

As the restaurant prepared to make their stand against the Krieg pirates Luffy walked to his first mate wrapping his arm around him in a silent thank you for pulling him from the darkness. Zoro grumbled but leaned into the boys touch his lips upturned in a soft smile. 

Luffy frowned as he felt the powerful wave of Haki, forcing his own to stifle it would not be good if he was noticed before Zoro had his chance to challenge the worlds greatest swordsman.

Mihawk cut through Kriegs ship like butter with a wave of haki leaving gawking pirates and chefs alike in its wake.   

Luffy followed as Zoro and Usopp ran from the restaurant concerned about Nami and Merry, focusing on Johnny and Yosaku the captain hauled them from the ocean as they tearily advised Nami had stolen the ship and made her escape with the treasure.  

Zoro and Usopp blustered in shock while Luffy nodded his acceptance. 

“For real!” Usopp spluttered in panic instantly looking out to sea where Merry had once been docked.  

“I need a straight answer, what happened?” Zoro barked at the two pirate hunters who recoiled in fear before telling the tale of how Nami had tricked them.  “Dammit, she just had to make a bad situation worse.”  

“The heartless thief, Kaya gave us that ship.” Usopp spluttered looking out to sea.  

Luffy remained quiet, softly feeling out for Nami as she drifted away from his Haki radius, he could feel her conflicting emotions of guilt and fear. Luffy concentrated sending a jolt of forgiveness and pride to her hoping it would carry her forward through the trials to come.  

“Wait, I think I see her!” Usopp declared. “Merry, oh merry there you are, we will get you back from that nasty thief if it's the last thing we do!” 

“She’s in trouble.” Luffy declared looking at his first mate willing him to understand.  

“Of course, Merry’s in trouble, she’s been stolen!” Usopp cried desperately.  

“Not Merry, Nami!” Luffy declared firmly, glaring at Usopp, concerned that the sniper was already attached to Merry.  

Zoro looked at his captain considering. “Trouble you sure? Is she even our problem, she never joined us anyway?”  

Luffy met Zoro’s eyes a fire burning in his own. “Nami is our friend, and she’s the only one I’ll accept as our navigator. She needs help, you and Usopp need to protect her.”  

Zoro looked back at Luffy testing his resolve before nodding, accepting.  

Luffy smiled jumping with enthusiasm, before turning to the two pirate hunters and ordering “Now, we need a ship. Johnny, Yusaku go get yours!”  

As the two pirate hunters jumped into action retrieving their ship the Strawhats prepared to split up for the time being, Luffy advising he would follow them as soon as he had finished repaying his debt to old man Zeff and convinced their chef to join them.  

Before Usopp and Zoro could set sail they interrupted by a revelation of a figure making itself known from the mist, instantly commanding attention.  

“That’s the man I’ve been looking for Hawkeye Mihawk.” Zoro stuttered overwhelmed at having his dream within reach.  

Luffy bit his lip drawing blood, trying to stop himself from begging Zoro to let it go, to tell him he needed more time before coming up against Mihawk, he couldn’t it would only push Zoro away, so he stood in silence listening as Zoro made his stand.  

As Mihawk revealed his knife Zoro responding with anger, not yet realising how lofty his goal truly was Luffy gripped his fists, crescent shaped wounds appearing on his hands as crimson blood slowly dripped. He may not be able to suffer as his swordsman would, but he would feel every moment of Zoro’s pain.  

Static filled Luffy’s ears as he watched Zoro’s attack get thwarted by the tiny sword. Distantly he could hear the spectators around responding in shock, Luffy wanted to scream.  

Zoro determinedly continued to attempt to hit his target, Luffy could feel his frustration as every slash was deflected, so connected to his first mate Luffy felt as realisation sunk in, Zoro had become used to defeating every foe in his path, but this, this was true power, still he would succeed, he had to right?  

As he was smacked to the floor by the back of a pitifully small sword Zoro heard a voice from his past, a ghost of the last person to defeat the great pirate hunter. Kuina. 

He remembered his promise, one day one of them would become the world's greatest swordsman, that he would become strong enough.  

He would not die here.  

Stumbling to his feet Zoro made a last effort to achieve his goal, as he fell, he met Mihawks bored gaze.  

“What is it then, what weight do you carry upon your shoulders?” The man asked a brow raised. “Speak up weakling.”  

Luffy grabbed Johnny and Yosaku as they tried to leap into the fray, his grip bruising the two’s arms as he shook with barely concealed anger.  

“Luffy...” Usopp muttered at hand coming up to touch the Captains shoulder. The sniper concerned feeling the dark aura spilling over from the young captain.  

“No, I won’t lose, I refuse to be defeated.” Zoro stood, his tired body standing tall against the pain.  

Mihawk regarded the figure ahead of him, as he stood tall preparing his attack. Interesting, he had not seen determination like this since a certain Red-Haired fool had crossed his path. Regardless, the kid needed to be taught not to pick foolish fights.  

Lunging forward Mihawk made his move plunging the dagger into the young swordsman's chest, there, that should teach him. A dark power leaked out from behind, a powerful blast of haki that made Mihawks brow raise, and yet as quick as it came it was concealed. The swordsman remained still dagger imbedded in his chest, very interesting.  

“You are defeated, yet you won’t step back, why not?” He asked.  

“I don’t know, but I will not run. Even if I retreat a single step, I would be shattering the promises I’ve made. I can’t run. I would lose my honour. You see, without that, there would be nothing left for me here.” Zoro remained stoic as he declared his truth, blood dripping from his mouth and nose.  

Luffy watched Zoro, his swordsman, the man who would great death with his arms open wide, daring it to try and take him. He imagined Zoro at the end, how he would have stood tall against the insurmountable odds, fighting till the last breath, giving his all to keep the promises he made.  

Tears streamed down Luffy’s face as he watched the two swordsmen stand face to face a war of wills.  

“That’s what defeat is.” Mihawk determined his eyes like ice.  

“Then I won’t accept defeat.” Zoro chuckled.  

“Then you’ll die.” Mihawk promised, he had broken so many challengers, their wills as weak as their swordsmanship, this was just another boring phony chasing fame.  

“I’d rather die than give up!” Zoro grunted using his grit and determination to eject Mihawks blade from his body.  

Mihawk calculated the boy in front of him, as if seeing him for the first time. He had a raw talent it was true, given time maybe he would be able to hold his own in a fight, but Mihawk had miscalculated, what he had initially seen as cocksure confidence, that needed to be snuffed out, was a well of ambition, one that was endless and could only be silenced by the cold grip of death, a waste. ‘Still’ Mihawk thought to himself. ‘Let’s test that resolve.’ 

The world's greatest swordsman sheathed his dagger, stepping back he asked for the boy's name.   

“I am Roronoa Zoro” The boy determined readying his stance to make one last attack.  

“I’ll remember it.” Mihawk promised “No-one as strong as you has come around in quite some time. So as a swordsman’s courtesy I’ll use the world’s strongest black sword to finish you.”  

“Thank you. I appreciate it.” The odds were insurmountable, but he would face his dream with all his might, never backing down.  

Luffy cracked the wood below his hand as he gritted his teeth forcing his roaring haki to remain under his control, it was lucky Johnny and  Yosaku were no longer being held by the rubber boy or they may have crumbled under his grip.  

Zoro begun to spin his swords around his control impressive as blood oozed from the wound on his shoulder. The fight would go one of two ways he would stand tall having achieved his dreams, his name reaching Kuina’s ears where she rested or he would die having failed her and his captain.  

The sound of his broken swords shattering to the ground was the first thing Zoro registered, then came the pain. The dull ache across his sternum was nothing to the pain of failure, not for himself but for Kuina, and Luffy. His captain had been relying on him, the King of the pirates needed the worlds greatest swordsman, and yet he couldn’t be that, not even for his captain. Somewhere in the back of his mind he realised his death would break Luffy, the boy had such shadows in his past, and now he would be one of them. He hoped Usopp would be able to hold the boy together long enough to rescue Nami from whatever had the captain worried.  

No matter the cost Zoro could not back down now.  

“I’ve lost.” He finally accepted the cold truth he should have known from the beginning. “Never in my life did I imagine I’d lose.” He sheathed his sword, glad the most important one had survived the battle, could live on without him. “So, this is the power of the greatest in the world.” Accepting his fate Zoro stood his arms held out at his side, welcoming death like an old friend.  

“But why?” Mihawk questioned, the boy had accepted he’d lost, and yet he offered his life, he wasn’t begging for mercy, strange.  

“Scars on the back are a swordsman’s shame.” Zoro grinned the taste of iron coating his mouth.  

“Fine” Mihawk smiled, this truly had been riveting, he hadn’t been this entertained since his rival had lost his arm to a beast. He couldn’t wait to see what the future held for this young swordsman, for even as he struck one last true blow, he knew this would not be the end.  

“You shouldn’t rush these things, young man.”  He smirked, if this Roronoa continued to grow one day he may achieve his goals and Mihawk couldn’t wait to see the day.  

As Zoro fell and Sanji shouted for him to give up his ambition to live, Luffy snapped, his tenuous hold on his power breaking. Regardless off intention this man had hurt his Zoro. 

He lunged forward his fist connecting with Mihawks cheek as they flew to the ground. Thick conquerors haki keeping the swordsman momentarily in place.  

Zeff’s eyes narrowed as he recognised the power leaking from the boy, it should be impossible for one so young to hold such control.  

Mihawks eyes widened in shock, who the hell were these kids? 

“You hurt my swordsman!” Luffy growled.  

“That power is a little above your level, wouldn’t you think?” Mihawk commented his voice nonchalant as he pushed the rubber boy off him pushing through the powerful haki. Years of fighting Shanks had given him a near perfect ability to ignore the power radiating from the boy.  

“YOU HURT MY ZORO!” Luffy screamed anger ripping from him as the drumbeats began their tempo.  

“Yet you could have stepped in at any time. I’m impressed at you for not interfering.” Mihawk acknowledged calmly, his words bringing the boy back to reality. “There’s nothing to be upset about, your friend will live.”  

“I know, but still you hurt him.” Luffy huffed out, his breathing calming as the sound of drums retreated to the recesses of his mind.  

“He made his choices, as I’m sure you are aware, the life he has chosen will not be a safe one, but still...” Mihawk raised his voice acknowledging the barely conscious swordsman. “It’s still far too early for you to die. My name is Hawk-eye Mihawk! You’re strong but there is still much for you to learn. No matter how many years it takes, I will hold this title as the greatest in the world and wait for you! Until that day, you must hone your skills! Then... seek me out, Roronoa Zoro!” Luffy watched as Mihawk publicly and loudly challenged Zoro, the straw-hat watched as the stoic man who had spent his pirate career alone acknowledged his first mate a bond forming for the younger swordsman one that would only blossom in time as the greatest's swordsman's cold heart bonded to Zoro’s own.  

Luffy grinned his anger placated, he had been right to let the events unfold, Zoro needed this, needed Mihawk, his rival and mentor.  

“You, what is your goal?” Mihawk looked to Luffy through the side of his eye.  

“To be the King!” Luffy determined, it may not be his main goal any longer but it was still an important piece in ensuring his crew achieved their dreams. 

Mihawk raised a brow, not quite believing the boys words, they rang true, but there was something else there regardless. “Is it really? Your ambitions are even loftier than your friend’s. That’s quite a task.”  

“With my crew I know we’ll make it; I’m going to make sure all our dreams come true.” Luffy stood tall his fist gripped in front of him.   

Mihawk raised a brow considering the boy in front of him, taking in the wounds on his lips and hand from where he had held himself back from stepping in front of his swordsman’s dream. “Just maybe you will.”  

 “He’s alive!” Johnny shouted out to the rubber boy joyously as Zoro spluttered.  

Luffy instantly launched himself to Zoro’s side, grabbing a hold of his swordsman's hand as they locked eyes.  

Zoro raised his other hand to the sky his sword held tall.  

“Luffy...” He declared. “I’m sorry for disappointing you. I know that you need nothing less than the greatest swordsman in the world. I’ve let you down. Uh..” Zoro broke off grunting in pain, tears flowing from his eyes.  

“Please forgive me.” He begged. “I solemnly swear, from this moment forward, that I will never lose again! Until the day comes when I defeat him and take his title... I will never, never be defeated! Is that ok, King of the pirates?!”  

Luffy grinned even as his own tears fell from his eyes mingling with Zoro’s. “I’m going to hold you to that promise, okay? We will both get stronger until no one can defeat us! I promise you Zoro we will be the best crew there is! We will protect each other and reach our dreams, together.”  

Mihawk turned from the scene impressed by the resolve between the two rookies, he had only one friend who he had challenged himself to become better for, maybe it was time for a visit?  

“You’re a good team.” Mihawk muttered as he walked away retreating to his ship. “I hope to see you again someday.”  

The Straw-hats had docked late evening the black sky to dark to allow for safe disembarkation that day, so they had set anchor and rested their tired bodies after weeks of sailing through turbulent seas.   

Nami had been unable to rest the seas changing on a whim causing her and Jimbe to constantly be reacting to natures will, trying desperately to keep them alive.   

By the time dawn had arrived they were no longer the only ship docked on the Island, Sanji confirmed with his expert observational Haki that not only had two ships arrived on the land, but more ships were quickly approaching. Jumping into action the crew quickly prepared to traverse the hostile landscape, but before they could begin their journey they were interrupted by a powerful presence on the sand below the ship.   

“Luffy!” A gruff voice called from below.   

Luffy the ever-impulsive ball of energy he was launched himself below straight for the elder pirate who awaited him. Before the strawhats could respond the figure planted the rubber boy into the floor a hand holding his head into the sand.   

“Lemme go!” Luffy struggled spluttering as sand entered his mouth.   

“Same old Anchor, an emperor in his own right, but still the same kid who had lofty dreams.” Benn grinned pressing the boy down further into the sand before releasing him and crossing his arms confident.   

Luffy sat up trying to scrape the taste of sand of his tongue. “Bleurgh”   

Responding to the scene below Zoro burst into action jumping down to join his captain swords in hands and mouth he stopped short of running the stranger through the tip of Wado pushing against the man's neck.   

“Good to know Anchor has a good first mate by his side, Shanks would be happy.” Benn stated posture still relaxed even as the green head tensed at the mans captain's name.  

News had travelled quickly even at the end of the world, Red Haired Shanks a government plant amongst the pirate world, his crew shamelessly hunting powerful pirate crews and cutting them down. A campaign of terror that had started against Kidd and had claimed the life of most of the worst generation.   

“Shanks?” Luffy muttered, his voice unsure broken.   

“He misses you anchor, I’ve come to extend an invite.” Benn smiled a hollow smile to the boy, he had been the only one capable of delivering this lie, but even as devoted as he was to his captain the words stung. “You’ve achieved your goal, and now Shanks wants to see you, he’s waiting by the Red Force across the way.”  

“Captain this could be a trap!” Zoro spat through his sword.   

“It is.” Luffy said looking into Benn's eyes, the older man looking away unable to meet the boy’s eyes. “But we’ll go anyway, I told Shanks I would see him when I became a great pirate, and I will, because I will fight Shanks and win!”   

Benn looked back seeing the fire in Luffy’s eyes, he saw as Zoro contemplated his captains words, dropping his stance but keeping his swords at hand he walked beside his captain helping him to his feet.   

“We accept Shanks invite, tell him I'll see him soon, kay?” Luffy grinned.  

Benn nodded words failing him, he knew if he opened his mouth, he would betray his captain's truth, beg for Luffy to free him from his imagined shackles. No it was too late, they had to see this through.   

As Benn walked away the Strawhats gathered around their captain.   

It had been decided that Zoro, Sanji and Robin would accompany Luffy to the Red Force, the others staying behind to begin mapping their path through the jungle, ensuring they would have a head start before the other ships arrived.   

Usopp had wanted to join, to meet his father face to face, but fear had won out, he had always believed his father to be a fearsome pirate, but to find out his hero had worked under the world government all this time, no, this was not the time for his personal problems they were so close to Luffy’s dream, his own worries could wait. He would not be a distraction.   

Onwards the group travelled in tense silence, they were about to enter enemy territory, one with a complicated history with their captain. This had been the man who had given Luffy his dream, his hat and his arm.   

How could he be the enemy?  

Sanji and Zoro exchanged looks they knew this would test their captain, and they had to be prepared to take on an emperors crew.  

As they approached the ship, they could hear sounds of a party taking place on the shore. The jovial noises cut through the quiet of the island with laughter and music.  

“If we’d have known it was a party, we would have brought Brook.” Sanji grunted taking a puff of his cigarette.  

“Don’t let your guards down.” Zoro muttered hand on his swords looking closely at his captain who nodded.  

As they emerged into the clearing taking in the sight of empty discarded bottles of various alcohol and the pirates strewn across the beach.  

Robin tactfully made a note of their placement mentally preparing to put a halt to any surprise attacks.  

“Anchor!” A jovial voice called out. “You made it, finally, wow look at you so grown up.”  

The red head stumbled his way over to the younger captain holding his face gingerly in his hand as he looked him over.  

“Shanks-san.” Luffy muttered his voice wavering as he looked into Shanks eyes. He could see right through the man, could see the pain that had been dulled by alcohol, the guilt that glinted under the layers of walls the man had put up. It was true then.  

Shanks smiled sadly as Luffy crashed through his walls seeing into the heart of the matter. “So grown up.”  

“Why?” Luffy muttered his eyes watering under the weight of his once mentor's betrayal.  

Shanks laughed taking a swig from the bottle clasped at his waist. “You know I envy you anchor; the world could have ruined you.  Marineford almost did from what I heard, and yet here you are, the end of the world, a strong loyal crew at your hand. Still the dreamer you always were, charging ahead regardless of the outcome.”   Shanks scoffed darkly, the rum sour on his tongue. “Do you even know what became of your hometown, do you care what happened?”  

“The government are bad people, they did that!” Luffy snapped his face turning red with anger.  

“No, Luffy, you did that.” Shanks spat, his eyes clouded. “You declared war on the World Government, you made them a target!”  

“Shut up!” Luffy cried throwing his arm out to hit the elder captain.  

Shanks grabbed the arm stopping the attack, his hand black he pressed down crushing the boy's wrist. “You think this is a game Luffy? That being a pirate is a game, find a treasure become king? War is coming, you brought it on the world, you can end it!”  

Zoro’s hand was on his swords ready to dive into the foray at a moment's notice, Sanji’s legs itched ready to be released on his captain's word, Robin flexed her wrists, slanted eyes calculating how to capture the most limbs in her trap.  

“I didn’t start this stupid war Shanks; they took my Robin!” Luffy shouted his haki thick in the air fighting for dominance with Shanks own power.  

Shanks suddenly changed tactics, his voice softening, his eyes turning desperate, begging. “Luffy surrender to me now, I can make sure they don’t kill you. They want Nika, but if you comply with them, we can stop the war, your friends will live.” 

“Never, I will be king of the pirates, and you will Let Go! ” Shanks was shocked as his hand relaxed releasing the wrist it held allowing it to bounce back to its owner.  

“Fuck, I knew you wouldn’t come easy, but I hoped you would see reason for your crew. Benn now.” Shanks ordered his first mate who revealed a golden Den Den Mushi from inside his coat.  

Robin gasped even after all the times she had endured a buster call it still made her pulse race.  

“Zoro!” Luffy demanded from the swordsman who was pouncing eagerly at the other first mate.  

Benn easily blocked Zoro's attack with the butt of his gun while his other hand completed the call.  

Zoro grunted retreating momentarily before diving back into the fold attacking again and again keeping Benn busy, having to block his onslaught unable to provide covering fire.  

As Zoro moved so did the rest of the crew Luffy launching himself into battle with Shanks a battle of both will and skill as the two circled each other lashing out with conqueror's haki and physical attacks alike.    

Robin took out the weaker of the crew with a Dos Fluer: Clutch, rendering them useless in the fight before turning her attention to the crews Sniper, she could see the resemblance to their own sniper. He seemed oddly hesitant for battle sending concerned glances at his Captain and Luffy’s ongoing fight even as the swirling power became harder to look through.  

Sanji stepped forward into a fight with the other crews own smiling chef, the man proving to be incredible durable to Sanji’s own attacks playing defensive as he bounced around the field.  

Grunting Zoro kept up his onslaught as he saw the ship emerging on the horizon, the largest armada of ships he had ever seen all emblazoned with the marines symbol, they were running out of time. Withdrawing his attacks for a moment Zoro aimed a powerful slash of haki out to sea taking out the first wave of approaching ships and buying moments that could prove crucial, unfortunately the time he had given to Benn had not gone unused, a well-aimed bullet tore through the battlefield finding purchase in Luffy’s  stomach distracting him momentarily and giving the upper hand to Shanks.  

Zoro’s power thrummed in anger, this man hurt his captain!

Benns effort left him slow to react as Zoro bore down on him his sword implanting itself in the older man's neck.  

“Well fought.” Benn muttered as his hand went up to cover the wound.  

“You let your guards down.” Zoro grunted pulling his sword free with a squelch.  

“Anything for my captain.” Blood leaked from Benn’s mouth as he fell to his knees' eyes glazing over. Whispering his last wish to the swordsman. “Do me a favour, don’t let him kill the kid, he couldn't live with it.”  

Zoro looked down in shock, as Benn let go of his neck allowing the blood to flow freely his life with it.  

He glanced over to Luffy and Shanks who were still going at each other, but Luffy was losing, he had lost purchase with the shot to the shoulder and Shanks was taking advantage. Without thought Zoro threw himself into the fray his body trembling at the effort to fight against the powerful Haki flooding the field. He deflected Shanks swords with all three of his own buying time for his captain to catch his breath.  

Shank’s eyes bugged shocked at the intrusion, if the green haired boy was here then where was Benn? A single glance to where his first mate had been confirmed the sad truth, he was gone, the only person who had ever understood, dead.  

Fuck.  

Shanks saw red his already powerful Haki bursting the power forcing the field to their knees. The green haired boy in front of him planted a sword into the ground to try and combat the blast. He did this, Shanks would make him pay. Raising Gryphon Shanks brought it down diagonally across the boy's shoulder aiming to rip the boy apart limb by limb. As he pulled his sword free from its bloody purchase, a familiar power shot through the air one he hadn’t felt since childhood. Rayleigh.  

Zoro feeling Shanks hesitance pulled away blood splattering as he freed himself, regardless of how heavy his limbs felt he raised his swords ready to counterattack.  

“Still don’t know when to back away do you?” A sneering voice approached from behind, a hand settling on Zoro’s uninjured shoulder as the boy shook under him.  

Luffy having recovered his strength looked around as the field flooded with pirates from the Cross Guild, the sand kicking up around Lucky Roux blinding his vision of the blond chef who was greedily catching his breath. A mere look from Rayleigh had Yassop raising his hands in surrender, Robin casually nodding at the man before walking to stand by her captain.  

“You not found the one piece yet kid?” Rayleigh called out his tone bored. “You’ve been here all night and yet you’re wasting time on this beach? Did I waste my time training you?”  

Luffy looked between the older man who had trained him and his former mentor, torn, he wanted to see this through but time was running out, if the marines burnt the island to a crisp before they had a chance to find the treasure it would all be for nothing. Mind made up Luffy nodded turning from the huffing Shanks he walked away back to the Sunny.  

“You too Zoro.” Mihawk muttered looking at his young protégée.  

“I won’t turn my back on a fight.” Zoro huffed sword held out.  

“So, you’ll turn your back on your captain's dream instead? A shame I thought you better than that.” Mihawk raised a brow.  

Zoro looked at his mentor seeing the worry behind the man's eyes as he took in the heavily injured boy. Mihawk knew Zoro, he knew his weakness and his strength, he believed in him, could see the future where Zoro would take his title, and yet here he was asking him to leave this battle, to walk away. The breeze blowing brought the sounds of Marines ships to Zoro’s ears, if they didn’t leave now, they would lose their shot. Here were a group of powerful pirates willing to put their faith in his captain, to lay down their lives in front of the marines to buy them time. 

“Don’t die, only I can take your life.” Zoro grunted to his mentor before withdrawing and taking his leave.  

“It certainly would be a shame to miss that day.” Mihawk muttered before stepping forward to face Shanks a sad smile playing on his lips.  

Chapter Text

Sanji awoke with a silent scream on his lips, the haunting laugh of Blackbeard taunting him even in his sleep.

Desperately glancing around the small camp he ensured he could see what little remained of their crew and allies, he could see his captains broken form curled up feebly facing the fire, his vacant eyes staring into the flames.  

Sanji crawled painfully to his feet, the days of war making each movement a strain. Stretching his worn muscles he nodded to Law, who was rigidly sat nearby, narrowed eyes constantly flicking around the camp, hungrily watching the trees around them, Sanji observed the man closely noteing how his hand was held out his devil fruit power active so he could feel the space around them, ready to react at any approach.   

Sighing Sanji approached the man, he lit a cigarette as he walked taking a drag before coming to a stop to lean on a nearby tree.  

“You should get some sleep” Sanji muttered. "I've got watch."  

“Thanks for the offer, but if it’s all the same I’d rather keep my eyes open Black leg-ya. We’ll stand more of a chance of escape with me awake.” Law’s eyes flickered around the space taking in the thin group of allies that remained, all unsettled even in sleep. His hand did release its hold allowing his power to go dormant, trusting in Sanji's observational Haki to warn of any company.  

Sanji shrugged; he understood the need to be constantly alert, an urge that only grew more unsettled with each passing day. “Suit yourself, don’t become too exhausted, you may be the only trained medic left on the island." Sanji pointed out, raising his smoke to his lips before his eyes surveyed the space, coming to a stop on his broken captain. "Has he moved at all?”   

Law shook his head slightly, eyes narrowing as lines of concern appeared on his forehead. “Shock" He explained with a shrug. Nothing we can do but hope he comes back to himself. Robin-ya tried to snap him out of it, but he’s in too deep. I’ve never seen him so still, back on Dressrosa I probably would have paid good money to see it, now though, it feels... wrong."

Sanji’s lips upturned slightly at the hint of affection in Law’s voice. “He has a way of worming his way into your heart doesn’t he.”  

Law side-eyed the cook, his wry smile giving away his true feelings. “He's not in my heart.”  

“Keep telling yourself that, you know Robin-chan told me. we're close to the once piece, I couldn't stop you if you wanted to go seek it out for yourself.” Sanji raised one of his curled brows.  

Law glared at the cook, who smirked back knowingly. Law groaned before raising his hands behind his head and shutting his eyes “Go try and reach your captain, this will all be for nothing if he doesn't come around.”  

Sanji smiled a sad smile as he threw the stub of his smoke to the side, stepping forward towards his captain.  

Sanji sighed as he walked over to his broken Captain, sitting down beside him looking into the flames.  

“Luffy...” He began slowly, tentatively, his eyes blinking over to observe the man who lay before him. As he observed his anger grew inside, a beast he couldn't control, he understood, he really did, but the crew had died for this, Zoro had died for this, because they believed in Luffy, yet here he was hiding in his own head. The beast lashed out, his foot hitting his captain rolling him over to face him. “Is this really how you want it to end? Huh, here I thought you were ready to face death, to give your everything for your dream, fuck, maybe we were wrong. They died for you! Is this how you repay them? Laying here feeling sorry for yourself? They believed in you!” Sanji seethed rising to his feet in anger steam flowing from his ears.  

“Sanji.” Robins firm voice carried across the small camp, a hand appearing from Sanji’s shoulder coming to close over his mouth stopping his tirade. “Do you think this is helping? Or are you truly trying to tell the island our location?”  

Sanji’s hands came up to grasp at the hand covering his mouth pulling it free, turning to face the dark haired beauty, tears rolling freely down his face, his voice torn with raging emotion. “Robin-Chan you must understand they’re dead, they all died, we are the only ones left and he’s giving up, and I don’t understand it, were their lives not worth it? If Zoro was here, he’d smack some sense into Luffy, and Nami-Swan – she'd – well she’d hit him so hard that-” Sanji broke off with a sob his voice broken as he fell weakly to his knees, water pouring from his eyes.  

Sanji heard Robin gasp slightly as he felt a weight drop on his head. He glanced up to see his captain stood there his eyes dark as he looked down at his chef, his straw hat held to his head.  

“Your right.” The boy muttered. “I won’t let their deaths be in vein, YOU HEAR ME WORLD, I AM MONKEY D LUFFY AND I WILL BE KING OF THE PIRATES, I WILL ACHIEVE MY DREAM, FOR MY CREW!!!”  

Robin put her hands up to her mouth as she heard the captain's passionate cries, before she allowed them to drop, nodding her head in determination.  

Sanji looked his captain in the eye as a phantom smirk appeared on his lips, a smoke in hand as he lit it standing tall at his Captains declaration, the straw hat dropping slightly darkening his eyes.  

“I thought we were laying low.” Smoker blinked awake instantly alert as he took in the scene around him.  

“I doubt Straw hat-ya know the meaning of the word quiet, but hey, at least this is better that then what we had before.” Law grinned placing a hand on his sword, heart fluttering as he looked at the other captain.  

“I don’t know, I was enjoying the quiet.” Smoker grumbled but smirked all the same.  

The small group stood tall suddenly revitalised at Luffy’s declaration, they had all placed their belief in the boy with the straw hat and knew he would see it through to the end.  

Sanji looked around the field desperately his tired legs moving on instinct as he hopped around the field, they had found the cave that Robin had assured them would hold the ultimate treasure, but as they had approached so had their enemies.  

In the end there were only Seven people who remained at the final stand, Luffy and Law stood ready to face the Fleet Admiral as he approached from the left; as Sanji, Robin and Smoker held their ground against a laughing Blackbeard on the right. They were so close to victory and yet as tired as they were they had to face this final hurdle.  

Each survivor bore the scars of the war, their movements stiff and tired after days of fighting and sleeping rough and yet each gave their all to their cause. Smoker fell first his body falling limp under Blackbeard's blackened grip as the floor below them shook and cracked in anticipation. Sanji thanked whichever gods were listening that Blackbeard had to hold back his tremendous second devil fruit out of fear of damaging the treasure that rested nearby.  

As the manic pirate grabbed Robin he licked his lips asking if she would sing as lovely as the other little bird as she fell.  

Robin squirmed desperate in his grip before she was launched from the field as an enraged Sanji bared his full strength down on the rival pirate. His attacks were flurried and desperate, eager to avenge the crew he had lost to this villain, finally his leg made purchase his revenge falling like a building on the pirates neck, feeling the bones snap under his foot, but even as the pirate fell, he took a part of Sanji with him. Delayed Sanji realised he had gotten sloppy, the relief he had felt at finally putting a stop to the formidable foe was momentary as he felt the pain of his stomach being ripped apart, heard the screams of his Captain.  

As his time ticked out, he turned to the person that had changed his destiny, that had saved him from himself time and time again. Meeting his captains' eyes he muttered ‘Thank you’ as he fell to the ground.  

Numbly he watched as Luffy reached out to him watching the final wing of the pirate king fall a scream ripping through the air as a call of his Captains name tore through the final arena. The last thing Sanji saw was the red of his Captains blood as Sakazuki fiery arm ripped through him.    

Luffy woke screaming his cooks name, the taste of iron mingling with the salt water in his throat he gasped, coughing desperately to clear the taste.  

As he spluttered a glass of water was held out to him.  

He gripped the glass with shaking hand tipping the liquid to his throat he greedily gulped it down.  

“Careful there Chore boy, we won’t rescue you from drowning twice!” A gruff voice sounded from his side. Luffy let his eyes survey the elderly man at his side as breathing returned to normal. 

Zeff’s eyes surveyed the boy in front of him, cutting through the crap and seeing the struggling soul within. He knew the boy had been holding himself back during the battle with the Krieg pirates, could see the boy had allowed his plunge into the deep sea, even as he sent his eggplant after him. Zeff had travelled the Grand Line and could see those who had been touched by its cruel waters, and though this boy looked young he could tell he had seen the horrors of the world.  

“I’ll give your performance a 6/10, I was impressed with how you held yourself as your swordsman fell, but you fumbled for a moment there, that was some impressive haki for one so young, but then maybe you’re not so young?” Zeff raised a brow in suspicion. “You really let yourself down during the fight with Krieg, I could tell you were holding back a mile away, but I’ll admit letting yourself fall to the ocean was an interesting choice, now was that brave or stupid?”  

Luffy blinked up at the man owlishly, surprised he had been caught so easily.  

“Curious how the first name on your lips when you woke up was my little eggplant, now, are you ready to explain yourself?” Zeff stroked his beard curious, was this boy connected to Sanji’s past, the thing the boy had spent years running from? 

Luffy closed his eyes sighing, he knew Zeff was a formidable pirate, but he had never expected to have to explain himself to him. Luffy extended his Haki ensuring they had privacy for the conversation that was to be had, aware he was in no condition to lie to his Chefs father figure.  

“My name is Monkey D Luffy, I am the king of the pirates. My crew was the greatest crew on the seas, in four years we travelled the grand line and found the One Piece, but by the time we found it we were too late. My crew was a crew of dreamers, they died trying to achieve their dreams.” Luffy broke off to wipe at his eyes. “My chefs dream was to find the all blue, he died in front of me.”  

Zeff gasped as Luffy met his eyes a storm of pain swirling behind the boy's gaze.  

“Sanji is the greatest chef of all time, and he deserves to see his dream, I want him to see his dream!” Luffy cried passionately.  

“What are you saying?” Zeff asked confused.  

“The one piece grants the person who finds it a wish, and all I wanted was my family back, so I came back to try again, to make it so we are stronger, so they can achieve their dreams!” Snot dripped down Luffy’s face as tears flooded from his eyes.  

“You came back? In time?” Zeff asked contemplatively, it wasn’t outside of the realm of possibility, after all he had seen a lot in his day. 

Luffy nodded his face screwed up. “But now I’ve messed it all up because I changed everything, and you’ll stop Sanji coming with me!”  

“Kid, if there’s one thing I know it’s that you can’t stop that boy doing something he wants, beside I would never stand in the way of the boys dream.” Zeff advised his brow raising.  

“But you’ll tell him about me and then he won’t be my Sanji!” Luffy continued to cry.  

“Pull yourself together, are you a king or not?” Zeff challenged.  

Luffy took a few moments to calm down his lip still wobbling.  

Zeff nodded acceptingly once Luffy had managed to gain enough composure. “Now, if you’re to catch up with the rest of your crew you’ll need to hurry and convince that boy to join you, he’s a stubborn brat after all, but I’m sure you must be at least half as stubborn if he followed you!”  

Luffy’s lip wobbled more, and the tears returned as he looked to Zeff. “You mean you won’t tell him!” he cried. 

“Look, I’ve been trying to get that boy to chase his dreams for years, and if you’re the person who will lead him there then who am I to stand in his way, that boy is a stubborn sacrificial fool but I put my faith in him a long time ago and I’ll be damned if I’m the reason that boy doesn’t make history.”  

Luffy cried out his thanks, wrapping his rubber arms around the now flailing man who tried to escape the stretchy limbs.  

“Am I interrupting something?” Sanji asked confused as he entered the room to the sight of Chef Zeff being accosted by rubbery arms.  

“Just this fool being overly thankful that I’m giving him a cook.” Zeff grunted batting at Luffy’s arms.  

“Hah, what fool are you going to convince to join this idiot, please tell me its Patty.” Sanji snorted, his brow raising as Zeff turned to him a brow raised striking a similar pose. “Don’t Shitty-Geezer, I already told him no and I’m not changing my mind!”  

“Come on now Little Eggplant, this is your chance to find something better, to finally try and prove the all blue is real!” Zeff grunted.  

“I can do that anytime I want, you really want to sell me to this child, to throw me away like that, this place would fall without me!” Sanji snarled, bitter anger rising in his heart as the second family he had ever known tried to exchange him like it was nothing

“Sanji...” Luffy began softly ready to ease the tension, but it was too late, the damage was done, Sanji stormed from the room kicking the door closed behind him breaking the thing in two.  

“Well, that went well.” Zeff grunted looking at the air where his boy had once stood.  

“You should go after him.” Luffy advised looking at the older man knowingly.  

“Heh, he’ll be okay, he’ll blow off steam then realise I’m right, that he’d be better off joining you then wasting away here.” Zeff snorted.  

“No, he’ll think he’s a burden” Luffy’s fist closed his eyes darkening. “He’ll join us thinking he’s doing you a favour by getting out of your way, believing he’s easily replaceable. I won’t betray his trust, but he needs to hear how you feel, he needs to hear what he’s worth.”  

Zeff contemplated what the young captain was saying with what he knew of his charge. He sighed as odd behaviours he had observed over the years clicked into place, his boy had been suffering and he’d never even noticed, he wasn’t equipped to deal with emotions, but he could try for his Eggplant.  

Zeff found the boy on the deck kicking the remaining wreckage of the fight into the ocean watching how far his powerful kicks would send the rubbish flying.  

“You’ve grown strong my boy!” Zeff observed his wooden leg clanking against the floor as he approached.  

“Yet I’ll never be as strong as you were.” Sanji grumbled scuffing his feet against the floor. 

Zeff chuckled. “If I’d have remained in one place I wouldn’t have grown as strong as I did.”  

“So, is that why you're sending me away, you think I’m weak huh?” Sanji challenged.  

“Don’t be a damned fool, I’m not sending you away, I’m setting you free.” Zeff grumbled.  

“That makes no sense stupid geezer I am free! ” Sanji shouted angrily.  

“Here I thought I had found someone who shared my dream, who was willing and ready to search the world for the All blue!” Zeff countered. “But maybe I was wrong, maybe I found a fool who wants to wither and die at a restaurant as a damned Sous Chef!”  

“I won’t abandon you, not after all you gave up for me.” Sanji deflated embarrassed as his eyes burned a hole into the floor.  

Zeff laughed bitterly as the weight of Sanji’s words fell on him, the rubber boy had been right, his Eggplant was suffering.  

“You’re a fool Sanji, even after all these years you think you owe me, but you saved my life that day.” Zeff sighed taking a seat against the cold deck patting the space beside him inviting Sanji to join him.  

Sanji gingerly took the offered seat his gaze weary as he glanced to Zeff.  

“That day when we boarded the Orbit we had just returned from the Grandline, we were tired and foolishly unprepared to weather a storm on the sea, in fact had you not gone overboard I would have gone down with my crew and never got to live the life I’ve had, never would have opened this restaurant and been a beacon for the hungry.”  

“What did me falling overboard have to do with you surviving, stop spouting shit geezer.” Sanji snapped confused why Zeff would be rehashing this history.  

“I never told you how you survived, did I? You see when you fell overboard, I couldn’t help it, I felt myself moving before I could process what was happening, see when you fell, I dove in after you, see if I hadn’t had been with you at that moment, I never would have made it to that damned rock.” Zeff looked to his protege. “See even before I knew you Eggplant, I couldn’t help but try to keep you safe, and that very action saved us both. From that moment I realised that it was fate, that I was meant to find you and teach you, so that one day you could find the All Blue, for us both.”  

Sanji looked up locking eyes with his mentor as his mouth fell open in shock.  

“But you, you stubborn fool want to waste that dream and your talent, here. That boy in there is a true dreamer one who won’t let death stand in his way, I think you could learn a thing or two with him, please Eggplant, don’t let life pass you by, find the All Blue, for both of us! You deserve it.” Zeff’s eyes burned with passion, lighting the flames that lay dormant within Sanji.  

“Fine, Shitty-Geezer you win, I’ll be a pirate, and find the all blue, but when I do, I’m coming back here and we are setting sail together and the Baratie will find a new home, one where Fish from each sea meet, where we can create the best dishes the world will ever know!”  

“Yay, Sanji is joining the crew, so can you make me some meat?” Luffy cried emerging from his hiding spot.  

“What you Shitty Captain, that was private!” Sanji scalded grabbing hold of his new captains ear.  

“Sorry, but Sanji... meat?” Luffy begged turning his puppy eyes on the chef as Zeff chuckled at the antics, it was almost strange how quickly Sanji seemed to fall into the rubber boys flow, almost like it was destiny.  

After they had been fed and watered Luffy and Sanji prepared to set sail to rescue their navigator but before they set sail the rubber boy handed Zeff a package quietly asking him to open it in privacy, as they waved the two away the chefs crying at the loss of their youngest member Zeff silently wished them luck, he prayed that fate would be on their side this time around. As they faded from the horizon Zeff retreated to his quarters looking at the package the young captain had left as he opened it a black fabric fell to the desk along with a letter:  

Old man Zeff,  

Last time the government took offence to anyone who had connections with us. They destroyed many in their task to stop us reaching Roger's treasure. We were stupid, trying to do everything alone, but this time I know war is coming.  

This time we won’t be alone. 

If your ever in trouble, please know you are under our protection.  

Monkey D Luffy 

King of the Pirates 

Zeff smiled as he unfurled the pirate flag before carefully folding it up and placing in the top of his chest beside his logbook from his own adventures.  

“Good luck kid, you’ll make a great king.” 

Chapter Text

“You’re lucky Nami-ya.” Law noted finishing wrapping up the wound on Nami’s head. “With the amount of strain you’ve put yourself under the last few days, and a concussion this bad you could have sustained permanent damage.”  

Nami smiled cheekily winking at the doctor. “Takes more than a bump on the head to take me down.”  

“I think it's more Blackleg-ya being able to keep you steady while running around the island.” Law raised a brow at the girl who smacked him gently on the shoulder. 

"I will have you know I did plenty of my own running, Sanji just offered to help, he's good like that." Nami sighed gently prodding at the bandages until Law grabbed her hand pulling it away from the tender wound. 

“You need to be careful, Strawhat-ya won’t be too impressed if I return you damaged.” Law stated standing up and going to rinse his hands.  

“Eh, Luffy always has worse, I’m sure he’ll understand.” Nami laughed, finding joy in the memory of her captain regardless of  circumstance. “Beside he’ll be too happy celebrating becoming King of the Pirates to notice.”  

“Sure.” Law noted busing himself with scrubbing at his hands.  

“You believe he’ll do it right?” Nami questioned carefully pulling herself into a seated position, ignoring the way the room swayed around her.  

“I’ve learned to always believe that Strawhat-ya is going to do the impossible. This certainly feels impossible.” Law sighed bringing himself to sit beside the girl.  

Nami hummed, nudging the doctor softly with her shoulder. “You know if he actually pulls this off you could be his queen.

“Shut up Nami-ya, I’m not going to be his queen.” Law rolled his eyes at the redhead who laughed joyfully, she always loved making Law redden with embarrassment.  

“You should consider it, after all this we could do with something to celebrate, I mean I had thought maybe Zoro and Sanji would finally make the jump but then...” Nami trailed off sadly looking to the tent door where she knew the cook was somewhere in the camp beyond.  

"I think the new king of the pirates is enough of a celebration to see us through for a bit, the fall of the government would also be a good one!" Law snarked jokingly, before following Nami's gaze. “He's holding up surprisingly well."  

“He’s been too busy taking care of me to really stop and think about it, I’m worried that this reprieve may be what brings it all down on him.” Nami sighed brushing her hair off her shoulder.  

“Blackleg-ya is strong, you all are.” Law put a cautious hand on Nami’s arm. “You Strawhats taught me how to believe, Luffy will win this, he has too for all of you."

Nami grinned at the doctor remembering the guarded man they had first met and how far their alliance had come. “He’ll do it for you too you know, you may not be a strawhat, but you are family.”  

Law raised a brow at Nami a small smirk playing on his lip. “I guess this is the fate I deserve, for my sins.”

Nami nudged her shoulder into Law resting her head against him, silently basking in the small escape from the war around them.  Within moments the peace  was interrupted by the sound of a sharp gunshot echoing through the camp followed by crashing and screams, their reprieve was over.  

Sanji was unsure what to make of his new Captain, his first impression of the kid was that he was naïve to the horrors of the world. The endless optimism he had shown in his fight against Krieg and his crew, the barrage of cheerful requests for Sanji to join the crew had left a false image on the chef's brain. Now, as he stood watching the same boy frozen in front of a gory scene, he realised how wrong his first impression had been, and yet he couldn’t turn away from his Captain.  

Maybe it was the fact that his captain's victim had made their beautiful Navigator cry, forced her to draw her own blood in a fit of desperation, that stopped him from turning tail and running, but did the fish man really deserve this? 

Sanji looked up catching the swordsman's calculated gaze. His eyes firm in challenge at the chef even as he held on to the captain's bloodied wrist.  

Arlong had been defeated, but as Luffy roused to reality he realised how far he had gone, where the last time he had dropped a building on the fishman rendering him unconscious but breathing, this time he had pulverised him into an unrecognisable goop on the ground. A sludge that no longer could draw breath. 

His face crumbled as he looked on in horror at the scene around him, even in the war he had not sunk to taking a life. He chose instead to be a pirate who sought adventure, fun and freedom, not one who brought pain and suffering in his wake. Never had he wanted to be a pirate like Arlong, even as his crew fell, he kept his innocence. Now as he looked up to his wrist still held in Zoro’s firm grip, he could see that he had lost control, and he couldn’t even remember how he got here.  

His last memory was of Nami once more hurting herself in her desperation to rid herself of her chains, the knife plunging again and again into her arm, trying to rip the ugly branding from her skin. He vaguely recalls placing his hat on to her head a grounding support to his navigator in her time of need, but then there was just a blinding white, stripping him of all memories and leaving him with the now haunting echoes of drums.  

“Zoro...” Luffy’s voice came out cracked and broken as he met his swordsman's eyes. What he wouldn’t give to see his Zoro, the seasoned warrior who had stood by his side through every trial, the only man who might be able to understand what Luffy had become. Instead he was faced with a version of his first mate who still had his innocence, who was naïve to the darkness of the world, who would look upon his captain and see only a murderer.  

Zoro looked back watching his Captain brake under the weight of his actions, watched as the boy's face fell in resignation and drowned in his guilt, he had known back in Syrup Village that something had been lurking, but his Captain had not been able to face the reality, but now it lay stark between them, and he could only hope this wouldn’t ruin his Captain.  

On instinct Zoro brought the rubber boy in, holding him as he collapsed, offering him his unyielding support. “I’ve got you Captain, you just need to hold it together till we get back to the ship, you can do that right Luffy. You’re our captain that means you will be strong in front of the crew, they need you to be strong.” He held Luffy as he hyperventilated his breath sounding like an alarm against the stark silence of the room.  

As Luffy looked up he had to blink to clear the image of a different Zoro staring down at him, one with a scar over his eye and a challenge in his brow, how could this Zoro sound so similar to his Zoro? How had he known exactly what the captain needed in this moment? 

Nodding weakly Luffy closed his eyes, focusing inward feeling the aura’s of his crew around him, he located Nami and Usopp somewhere outside of this wretched building still innocent of the truth, both beacons of hope in the certainty their Captain would pull through and save them from the oppressing pirates that had ruled this country for too long.  

He could feel Sanji watching on, his conflict at the scene before him, and yet even as his chef watched him at his worst, laying in a pool of blood and guts, he could feel the undercurrent of an unwavering loyalty, something Luffy felt was unearned but had been given freely.  

“Chef!” Zoro commanded looking to the curly browed crewmate, ensuring he had the shocked blonds attention. “The others don’t need to see this, I’ve got things here, you take Luffy back to the Merry, get Johnny and Yusaku to keep guard while I deal with this. Can you do that Curls?”  

Sanji looked to the green haired swordsman his mind running a mile a minute, what had happened here shouldn’t be acceptable and yet as he looked to his broken Captain he felt the same draw he had been fighting since the boy had first turned up at the Baratie, sanity told him to flee, to cut his losses and return to Zeff, but his very being called out to the rubber boy in front of him, it was as if fate itself was telling him that no matter what he needed to be at this boys side. It had been the very thing that had pulled him instinctively into the water when the boy had fallen to the ocean in his fight with Krieg, and now it told him that this wasn’t who his Captain was and urged him to help the boy to fix what was broken.  

He thought of his father in all but blood who had told him that this boy needed him, in the end the choice was easy, he was a straw hat, and he would always be there when his Captain needed him.  

Stepping forward he gathered the now silent boy in his arms, careful to ensure he was holding him in a way that disguised the blood that coated his arms and clothes. He nodded to the swordsman a silent promise passing between them to protect this secret to save the crew from the knowledge what had happened here and to rescue their Captain even from himself.  

As Sanji left, he could see Nami’s village gathered around the entrance to Arlong Park, eagle eyes pointed at Arlong’s castle. He could make out Nami and Ussop both exhausted and injured from their own battles, waiting expectantly for their Captain to emerge victorious.  

“You up for this Captain?” Sanji asked the shivering but silent figure in his arms.  

He received a tense nod as the boy took a deep breath a huge grin breaking out on his face as he released it.  

“Luffy!” Nami’s voice rang out concerned at the sight of the boy being held in Sanji’s arms.  

“It’s okay Nami.” Luffy laughed assuring the redhead joyfully. “I’m just tired, so Sanji is going to bring me back to Merry for some meat, right Sanji?”  

Sanji blinked at the captains flawless acting, concerned at how easily the lies seemed to come to the boy. “Right...” he muttered before shaking himself out of it, he had his Nami –Swan to put at ease after all. “The shitty captain overdid it a bit, so I must act as a pack mule while Marimo ties up some loose ends. You must be hungry Nami-Swan, how about I whip up a feast to celebrate our victory?”  

“Oooo... A feast, yes to celebrate the legendary Captain’s Usopps dastardly plan to take down the Arlong pirates!” Usopp grinned posing triumphally, until he received a whack over the head from Nami.   

“Shut up you idiot, although food sounds great, the whole village has been suffering under Arlongs rule, so maybe we could all celebrate together?” Nami asked vulnerability shining through as she looked at her Captain who seemed so small in Sanji’s arms despite the grin plastered on his face. “You sure you’re okay Luffy?” She asked softly her observant eyes taking in how the boy was huddled in the chefs arms. 

“Don’t be silly Nami, its nothing meat won’t fix, so come on Sanji, meat!” Luffy’s voice remained upbeat even as he burrowed further in Sanji’s grip, trying to hide himself more from the onlookers desperate to avoid questions.  

Sanji nodded at his Captain understanding instinctively how close he was to loosing the act. “Hey you two idiots.” Sanji addressed the two pirate hunters. “The swordsman has some things to tie up here, stand guard make sure he’s not disturbed.”  

Johnny and Yusaku nodded happy to help their big bro.  

As Sanji deposited Luffy in his captains' quarters he watched the boy's face fall back into despair, the act melting away the moment he was away from prying eyes. The guilt that the boy was obviously feeling helped ease Sanji’s mind, the boy was obviously not a natural killer, and he would wear the scars of this forever more.  

He paused at the exit torn; he sighed before lighting a cigarette using the action to gather his thoughts.  

“You know the fact that you’re feeling like this shows you’re human.” Sanji turned to meet his captains shocked eyes. “I know what evil looks like, and this isn’t it.”  

Luffy’s eyes widened as he realised Sanji was referring to his biological family, emotionless soldiers who would move on after every death.  

Luffy nodded his lip and eyes watering as he spluttered out a thank you to his loyal chef.  

“Don’t mention it, shitty captain, just make sure you don’t let this break you. It’ll be hard to traverse the Grand Line without our captain.” Sanji allowed a small smirk to appear on his lips.  

“I won’t” Luffy promised wiping at his tears.  

Sanji nodded before making his leave.  

Zoro gathered what remained of the tyrant Arlong, carefully ensuring the scene was cleared of all evidence of what had occurred within these walls. He thought back to the moment he had entered the room, his captain had been unrecognisable; his hair a stark white with daunting red eyes, a haunting laugh that echoed around the room as Arlong took shot after shot from the powerful demon. As Zoro had stepped forward into the room the figure hadn’t even regarded him, continuing his onslaught on the fishman who had already fallen to the ground his last breath passing his lips.  

As the figure towered over the fishman the laugh drawing deeper and deeper thumping in a strange rhythm.  

“Luffy!” Zoro called trying to stir his captain, but as the figure wearing his Captains skin looked up, he realised he could not feel Luffy in this body.  

“Swordsman!” A laughing voice echoed around the room as the figure tilted his head.  

“Who are you?” Zoro muttered his hand going to his sword.  

“I’m the person who’s going to save you all.” The figure grinned manically, its fist continuing to rein down on Arlong's corpse.  

“Where’s Luffy?” Zoro edged further into the room cautiously. 

“He’s here, but he wasn’t strong enough, so I decided to help, now we’ll never lose again” The laughter continued to echo vibrating the room that seemed to be bouncing around the figure. 

“Give back my Captain!” Zoro cried out drawing his sword ready to halt the figure, but as he passed by his sword turned to rubber limply bouncing off the demon.  

He was surer than ever that it was not his captain that was in control, instead the devil himself had taken up residence in his Captains body.  

“Oh I will swordsman, after all I’m doing this all for him, I need to make him happy again.” The figure giggled, swaying happily.  

Throwing his sword to the side Zoro launched forward grabbing hold of one of the boys hands still wildly smacking into what remained of Arlong, as his hand met skin a jolt lurched through the rubber boy, his hair regaining its normal dark colour and his eyes closing, he lurched forward as though his strings had been cut.  

Relieved to have his Captain back Zoro had no time to process before Curls entered the room gasping in shock at the sight before him. Damn Curls had made it so Zoro couldn’t fill his captain in to what had happened, couldn’t let the boy know it had not been him that had done this, he needed to speak with his captain, but first he needed to protect him.  

Once the swordsman was happy, he had hidden all evidence of what had occurred he exited the building a bag in hand holding what remained of the fiercest pirate in the East Blue.  

“Big Bro!” Johnny greeted happily as he exited the palace.  

Zoro grunted throwing the bag at Johnny’s feet. “Take it and go, the bounties yours if you leave now and don’t tell anyone about this.”  

“Wait, what big bro?” Yusuke asked stepping forward to regard the bag that was too small to hold a body.  

“You heard me, take it and leave. You have a ship, you can claim the bounty in the next village, we are pirates, you’re both pirate hunters, so take the bounty and go.” Zoro growled, trying to put some fear into the two bounty hunters.  

Yusuke reached the bag opening it before lurching to relieve himself of what was in his stomach. “H-how?” He spat out glancing concerned at Zoro who just straightened his back glaring down at the two.  

“I’m a pirate, don’t you know we are ruthless.” Zoro spat selling the act of being cold hearted to his old friends, cutting all ties to his old life. “Now, get out of here, and take the trash with you.”  

Johnny and Yusuke scrambled to leave, setting sail immediately to the next island taking the evidence of what became of Arlong with them.  

Zoro headed back to the merry where a celebration was beginning to take shape outside, a raging fire cooking the finest meats, but unusually there rambunctious captain was nowhere to be seen. 

Catching the chefs eye who was casually flitting across the beach running the impromptu barbeque, effortlessly slicing and dicing ingredients.  

“Hey Mosshead, could you bring the captain some food, he’s being too lazy to get out of bed.” Sanji stated the moment he saw him, allowing the perfect excuse for Zoro to slip away and see to his Captain. 

Zoro didn’t argue grunting in acceptance as he grabbed a plate of food to bring to his Captain he headed towards the ship.  

When he approached, he could hear the captain’s voice ringing out from an ajar door to the boys' quarters.  

Luffy couldn’t stand to be left alone with his thoughts, the constant reminder of what he had done caused him agony as his fragile heart fractured under the thought of what would happen when his crew realised he was bad.  

They would leave, he knew it, they were the kindest most loyal crew he could wish for, his family in all but blood, but how could they forgive him this, he had killed, and he hadn’t even been in control. For as long as Luffy could remember he had loved to fight, had taken joy in reining victorious, but he had never taken it too far, but now he couldn’t trust himself to not lose control.   

Staring at his still bloodied hands Luffy decided he needed advise from the one person who would understand, someone who had faced his own bad decisions and come out the other side stronger, he needed his Pa.  

Shanks was awaiting his call, intimately aware of what this date had meant for Luffy in the first timeline and knew this would be one of the first major fights for the boy in his reawakening. The fact that he had taken out the strongest pirate in the East Blue mere weeks after setting sail had shocked the older Captain, but he knew Luffy was special. He knew the second time around Arlong would not be able to hold a candle to Luffy’s skill but the fact that this pirate had such an impact on the boys navigator gave Shanks the insight that this would be a tough challenge for his boy mentally.  

As soon as his phone started ringing Shanks was on receiver. “Anchor” He sighed into the line.  

Luffy sniffled, filling Shanks with dread he could almost hear his boys tears making their way down his face. “I did something bad Pa.”  

Shanks wished he was at his boys side so he could bring him into a hug. “Oh, Anchor, what happened?”  

“I killed someone...” Luffy’s voice cracked under the emotion a white dagger launching itself in Shank’s heart.  

Of course Shank had killed, it was the pirate way, but Luffy wasn’t like that. He was special, innocent in a way no one else in this world was. “Luffy, listen to me, it's going to be okay. I know you, you wouldn’t kill in cold blood, so walk me through it, what happened?” 

“I...I...I don’t know!” Luffy sobbed. “I w..was going to stop Arlong and then I can’t remember anything until I came back to and Zoro was holding my bloodied hands. Sanji saw it as well, and now they’ll all find out and leave me.”  

“Hey, hey no one is leaving you Anchor. We are going to get to the bottom of this, what is the last thing you remember?” Shanks soothed desperately.  

“I was with Nami, Arlong had betrayed her, and I was angry.”  Luffy sniffled. "It was too loud..."  

“Okay so you were angry, was this the same kind of anger as last time?” Shanks asked cautiously remembering his last call with the boy,  

“Maybe, he made her hurt herself.” Luffy confessed.  

“Do you remember anything else Luffy, anything at all?” Shanks asked.  

“Drums.” Luffy admitted cautiously.  

As Luffy made the admission Zoro decided it was time that he revealed his presence, gently pushing the door open.  

Luffy looked to the door, shocked that in his trauma he had not felt his swordsman's approach.  “Zoro?” He questioned loosely biting his lip nervously, expecting Zoro to look at him in fear.

“Look, I may I have some details that might help you discover what happened.” Zoro regarded his Captain carefully waiting his permission, at Luffy’s nod he entered gently placing the food down the Swordsman settled down beside his captain on the bed.  

“You said you heard drums, well when I entered the building there was someone else there, someone who’s laugh sounded like drums. It was a demon who wore your skin with white hair and these red eyes.” Zoro explained his eyes calculating the captain's response.    

Luffy’s eyes widened in shock as Shanks swore on the line.  

“I thought you hadn’t been able to reawaken your fruit?” Shanks questioned lowly his tone serious.  

“I couldn’t.... or at least I didn’t think I could...” Luffy questioned himself. “but... I’ve been hearing the echoes of drums for a while now.”  

“Luffy, you need to be careful, if anyone finds out before we are ready it’ll all be lost.” Shanks implored.  

“DO YOU THINK I DON’T KNOW THAT.” Luffy snapped his haki freezing Zoro’s momentarily, the sudden pressure that the swordsman had to fight against.  

“Why do I feel like I’m missing something?” Zoro questioned raising a brow at his Captain, as he huffed recoveing. “If I’m going to be covering up for you, don’t I deserve the truth?”  

Shanks sighed on the line. “Kid, I think you and your first mate need some privacy, call me back when you can, me and Benn will do some research and try and get some answers.”  

“Pa I...” Luffy called out desperately but hearing the click of the line cutting off, Shanks knowing that his son needed this. 

Zoro regarded his Captain who started shaking holding the receiver in fear of what was to come, he could face telling grown adults about the future, but Zoro? He didn’t want to risk changing the person his swordsman would become, but he was right he deserved answers.

“I..it all began on an island called Laugh tale, or maybe it began before that, when I ate the Hito Hito No Mi.” Luffy closed his eyes unable to look at his swordsman. “The government wanted for a long time as it contains the powers of the Sun God, they would stop at nothing to get it. When they found out that I had it, they started a war to try and stop me becoming king of the pirates.”  

“Wait what war?” Zoro asked confused, he couldn’t sense any lies from the boy but surely, he would know if there had been a war? 

“It hasn’t happened yet, but it will in about 5 years.” Luffy explained his voice timid.  

“That’s impossible!” Zoro stated his mouth falling open in shock but as he met his Captains eyes, he could almost see the flames of the war flickering in the boys' brown orbs.  

“I didn’t want to tell you till you were ready, but you always knew me to well, I could never hide anything from you.” Luffy’s eyes watered. “Just like you could never hide anything from me, I failed you Zoro. I made you throw away your dream. I am so sorry.”  

As Luffy collapsed in grief Zoro looked on in horror, he could see flashes in his head at his Captains words. Moments of what he could only assume was Luffy’s memories, he saw himself back-to-back with, wait... was that a skeleton? He could feel his life slipping away and feel his captain's grief as if it was his own. It was too much; he needed to escape. Needed to think.  

Before he realised what he was doing his feet had carried him away from the ship, through the still thrumming celebrations and all the way back to Arlong Park. As he stared at the monstrous building, the heavy weight of the truth settling around his shoulders Zoro roared his sword flaring out time after time until the building in front of him was no more.  

Chapter Text

As a child Nami had learned to stand tall even in the face of defeat. She had smiled as she sold her soul for a chance to save her village, it was a lesson she had learned too young, smile even when it hurts.  

Here she was no longer a child, she was a straw-hat, a warrior of the seas, someone who had stared death in the face countless times and walked away with her head held high, she would not break even when she knew it was the end.  

In her last moments she thought of her mother all those years ago, though they had never shared blood they were born of the exact same will. They both had a fire inside that would burn bright enough to protect those they cared about, even if it meant they would die for it. Bell-mere had faced death with her head held high and love for her daughters in her heart, now Nami would make a trade her life for her crew.  

Nami knew that many had been silenced in the ambush that led her here, but selfishly Nami hoped that her remaining Nakama would make it out, not for herself, but for her Captain who would have to live with the events that had transpired here. It was for her Captain she fought her capture, kicking, scratching and biting at any person who came near her, but never screaming she would not leave her crew with the memory. As she raged and fought Blackbeard laughed, the sound making her sick to her stomach, he took joy in her plight. His laugh ringing out even as her teeth stole a finger from one of his crew, their blood mingling with her own.  

As she raged she was dragged, further into the thick forest, forced to clamber over uneven ground for what seemed like hours, until finally she was brought to the top of a cliff edge. Nami's brain calculated that this was one of the highest points of the island, overlooking the surrounding forest where Nami could make out smoke and small figures fighting on in the distance. It was the perfect place for her to be noticed and heard, an obvious trap for what remained of her crew, after-all the Straw hats were known to be possessive of their own. 

Blackbeards breath ghosted over her back as she was halted, his grip holding her out, shaking her over the sheer drop below, one she knew would bring her end.  

The rival captain laughed his face alight with a hunger for blood, his hands holding her firm, he was the complete opposite of her own Captain, her home. Where Luffy's laugh brought joy and hope, Blackbeards made Nami want to rip her ears from her head so she would never hear the haunting noise again.   

“Now then little bird, chirp for your captain, there's a good girl.” Blackbeard's voice crawled down her spine, regardless of her fear Nami’s mouth remained closed. Her crew had sacrificed it all for their captain to meet his goals, Nami would not be the reason they faultered  at the last hurdle, no, she would remain silent and die with pride like her mother before her.  

“Hahaha, oh I like you little bird... but silence was never an option.” With a huff she was launched to the side, her bandaged head colliding with the floor as it broke her landing. She let out a whimper despite herself, looking up her vision swayed as multiple Blackbeards stomped towards her sword in hand, his jeering crew closed in around her the laughs echoing off to the forest.   

As the town celebrated the defeat of Arlong and his band of pirates Nami smiled and cheered along with them, but inside she her concern grew. Luffy had not been seen since the fall of Arlong and Nami felt her apprehension grow. She had never known Luffy to miss out on food, even injured the boy would ignore any pain to gorge himself on meat. The small glimpse she had of Luffy since the battle had felt off, but in her joy at finally being free of her prison Nami hadn't thought to question it. Now with time Nami was almost desperate to seek out the captain who had brought her such joy, to be able to see him and promise herself to his crew. 

The young Captain had never pestered Nami into joining, allowing her to tag along as a friend but now free of her shackles Nami realised all she wanted was to sail the seas, at Luffys side. Discovering all that their was to discover and to create the most comprehensive map of the world that anyone had ever seen. She was ready to chase her dreams with Luffy, her first friend and her Captain.

While she partied she surveyed what was going on around her, tracking her future crew as they navigated the post fight party, she watched as Sanji stood guarded as he cooked, seamlessly stopping anyone from entering the ship between flipping burgers. Distracting Usopp as he tried to enter to grab one of his weapons to show off, pushing Nami off to her sister when she tried to see the Captain. She watched as his posture changed when Zoro arrived, placing a plate in his hands and shooing him towards the ship. Noticed through narrowed eyes as Zoro stormed from the Merry his aura dark and foreboding doing nothing to put her worries at ease.

Something was wrong and Nami was determined to get to her Captain and ensure he was okay, and who was one curly browed Chef to the greatest Cat burglar Coco Village had ever known. 

Nojiko was easily persuaded to join Nami's plight, her sister always happy to help Nami in her schemes, brazen under the influence of the towns best wine she was happy to play the bait to Sanji's attention.

Nami watched as her sister took pleasure in taking advantage of Sanji’s nature coyly teasing the chef keeping him busy with requests for things the Chef would have to run off and grab, like a orange from her mothers orange tree that she would 'just love' to try baked into a tart by the chef's 'talented hands'. It made Nami gag to watch the eager to please chef trip over himself in his eagerness to please, was this guy for real? At least his giving nature would come in use in the future.   

As Sanji ran out of view Nami gave a quick glance to the crews sniper finding Usopp telling tall tales to a group of gathered villagers, Nami smirked to herself, it was too easy for her to enter the Merry unnoticed. 

As she stepped on to the deck she called out gently to her Captain, warning him of her presence as she made her way to his quarters, as she stood in the doorway her just healing heart cracking wide open.  

Luffy was curled up on the floor sobs lurching through his small body, it was wrong, a stark difference to how her Captain should be, this was Luffy the bringer of hope and joy. Even as Nami blinked the sight remained, her captain was drowning in what could only be grief. Nami knew what loss felt like, what it looked like, she had mourned her mother along with her freedom all those years ago, had watched so many people loose everything to Arlong, and now her captain, the very person who had brought her freedom, with his seemingly endless strength was suffering.  

Nami's curiosity fled at the sight, she didn't need to know what happened, all she needed to know was how to stop Luffy's suffering.

Her legs stumbled forward before her brain could catch up, she ran to her captain, falling at his side and bringing his shaking body into her arms. They stayed there, Nami providing the warmth and comfort she had once craved, alone in her cage. She didn’t push for answers, for she knew there was none needed, instead she offered her silent support. A strong pillar of resilience against the oncoming storm, regardless of the cause Nami was there for him, and she would remain at his side.  

As Luffy's sobs gave way to quiet snores, Nami remained. As they lay together on the floor the navigator made a promise, she would be there if Luffy ever wanted to talk about it, but she would never dig for answers, he was her Captain and she would never ask for more then he was willing to give.  

Nami listened to the party raging on outside, thankful that the boy in her arms had brought peace to her home village, as she joined her captain in the sleepy abyss she held him close chasing the demons away for the night.    

It was hours later that Sanji having finally appeased Nojiko’s seemingly endless requests stumbled upon them, he couldn’t be angry at his Nami-swan for her trickery as he watched the two small figures curled around each other in sleep, instead he covered the two in a blanket and turned to chase down the last missing crewmate.  

Sanji found the swordsman surrounded by the rubble of what was once Arlong park. The green haired marimo was knelt bathed in the light of the moon screaming to the heavens, his sword discarded at his side as he raged at the sky. Sanji felt all the oxygen leave his lungs, watching silently as the swordsman bathed in his rage the chef looked on breathless.  

“I made a promise to my captain, and I will not break it, never again!” Zoro called to the heavens. “You want to challenge us? Well you can try because we will be stronger than what you can dream of!” Zoro rose to his feet glaring to the sky’s above. “You hear me, I will be the right hand of the KING OF THE PIRATES AND YOU WILL NOT STOP US!”  

The winds rose at Zoro’s declaration, the rubble swirling around him to frame him against the destruction he had wrought. The moons light glazed of his sword making it glisten in the dark, and Sanji could swear he could hear the waves roaring in the distance. Sanji felt like the the gods were accepting the swordsmans challenge, daring him to rage brighter to burn as bright as the Sun itself.

Sanji watched on mesmerised as Zoro stood in his element daring fate herself to try to pry him from his captains side.  

As the winds calmed, the chef found his breath at last, and slowly he approached his crewmate. He could see Zoro’s chest rising and falling with the effort to calm his raging heart. Sanji searching for something to hide behind lit a cigarette using it as a barrier to protect his carefully crafted walls.  

“You know screaming at the skies seems like a waste of energy, I thought you were more the fight your demons kind of guy.” Sanji drawled coming to a stop in front of the swordsman.  

As Zoro regarded the tall blond he felt the ghostly pang of loss in his chest, shaking himself he focused on the present, his Captain had wished to keep the crew's innocence to keep them from the truth and now he would protect his captains secret as he would the crews very lives, but just because he was agreeing to Luffy's wish didn't mean he wouldn't push the crew to grow.  

Grunting Zoro sheathed his sword. “This is only the beginning. The Grandline is known as the pirate graveyard, and we need to get stronger, to be able to protect the Captains back.” He glanced over the chef, noting how his lean muscles moved, strong in a way that was so different from Zoro, still he had been impressed by how the chef had made short work of the henchmen Arlong had sent after them, but he knew it wouldn’t be enough.

“I don’t think we did to badly, even with your wound you managed to send that Sushi packing.” Sanji nodded to Zoro’s bandaged chest, his eyes lingering a moment to long. 

“It’s not enough!” Zoro grunted causing Sanji to look up his eyes meeting Zoro's own desperate orbs. “Tell me Curls, do you think you could take on Arlong?”  

Sanji shuffled, unsure, his own fight had taken a lot out of him. 

“How about Mihawk, could you stand against him?” Zoro challenged. “The grandline is full of monsters just like him, and we are still children to them. We'd need blind luck to survive. Look Luffy is strong, we both know that, but he needs help. He needs people who can stand at his side and have his back if it gets to much” The swordsman took a grounding breath. “He needs us, Curls. So lets make a pact, me and you, we'll get stronger together, and we won't stop till we can stand above all the monsters in the world”   

Flustered at the passion in Zoro's eyes Sanji could only nod, he conceded they had a long way to go, he knew what monsters the world hid, heck he had been raised by some of the worst. Something in his heart sensed that Zoro could push him like no other, together they would grow and make sure they were strong enough to stand shoulder to shoulder with their Captain, a trio of monsters that could take down the demons of the world, maybe one day he'd be strong enough to face his own past.  

Zoro smiled, his teeth clashing together in wild joy that showed a hunger for power, one that they would hunt together.  

Hours later found the Strawhats back on board the Merry, Usopp passed out from the festivities while Sanji slept away the wrought emotions of that day.  

Nami slept on peacefully on the captains floor a pillow in the place of her rubbery captain.  

Luffy had dragged himself from Nami’s gentle touch feeling unworthy of the kind-hearted navigator's comfort.  Leaving the girl sleeping he carefully made his way to the deck, a yearning in his heart to see the stars, to see that the universe was still there, vast around him. As he lay there gazing at the sky, his heart skipped a beat when he felt Zoro settle beside him, dread and fear clenching his heart in it's iron grip, until he heard the words that shocked him. 

“Thank you, Captain.” Zoro muttered breaking the silence, his own eyes glued to his Captains face watching it fall as the words hit him.  

“W-w-what?” Luffy stuttered his eyes blinking over to his swordsman, searching for answers. Zoro had run the moment he had heard the truth he had fled, Luffy's worst nightmares becoming reality.    

“You said you failed me, but the way I see it I failed you.” Zoro’s eyes burned with passion. “I made you a promise to never loose again, but I wasn’t strong enough and I died for my failure.”  

“No” Luffy’s word was firm cutting across Zoro’s reasoning. How could his swordsman think as such, did he not realise how important he was? Looking into Zoro's eyes Luffy realised the truth, the captain would never be book smart, but he understood people and he knew his crew. A small giggle escaped the boys lips as he realised, he hadn't fled Luffy, no he had felt angry that he thought he'd failed. Zoro could never fail him, the world wasn't fair and people didn't play by the rules, the government had placed to many pieces in the way, the best of pirates couldn't of survived, and Luffy knew, they had been the best!

“You were so strong Zoro, you are strong, but no one can take on the world alone. It wasn’t fair, and you gave us time, if you hadn’t then I never would have made it to the treasure, I wouldn’t be here now without you.”  

“But I lost.” Zoro’s eyes glistened with unshed tears. 

“They cheated, we didn’t know what game we were playing, but this time we do, we can change make our own rules!” Luffy’s eyes burned with a fire a red glint in his iris’.  

Zoro nodded accepting the fire in his captains eyes, he wrapped his arm around the boy who had come back to save him, who had lost so much but was still fighting for his crew. This kid who had taught him what it was to care, who had taken an orphaned swordsman who had never known love and given him a family. He would protect this, protect them all.  “This time I’m going to be stronger; I will make sure all our dreams come true!”  

Luffy smiled moving closer to lay his head in Zoro’s lap, happy tears running silently down his face, his swordsman was back. He giggled wetly joy bursting from his chest. “I know you will Zoro, and this time we will be ready!”  

As Nami said her goodbyes to the village she was unaware of a conversation taking place between her Captain and the sheriff of the town; Genzo obtaining a promise from the young captain to protect Nami with his own life should the need arise, and Luffy providing his flag as a sign of protection, claiming Nami’s homeland as his. He made the Sheriff promise that he would wait until the time came that the Strawhats were strong enough to take on the world, but when it happened, they would raise the flag high, proudly supporting the pirates who had helped them when the government had forsaken them.  

Genzo agreed with a smile, never would he have thought himself going against the structure of the world, but after years of bowing to Arlongs rule the sheriff could see that just because it was the law did not mean it was right. The government was corrupt, and it was a deep seeded rot that was leaking throughout the world, rumours that he would have once ignored about countries burned down overnight by marines and even whispers of a nationwide slaughter of expecting mothers, murdered without a second thought in a hunt that was only talked about in only hushed voiced. Deep down Genzo knew this young boy carried the winds of change and he brought a hope for a better future, one that Genzo would be willing to risk his life for.   

It was with this in mind the village waved them off, Luffy stood tall waving goodbye to Nami’s home village a place that had wrought pain in both lifetimes, but also a place that had birthed hope.  

He stood tall Zoro’s arm offering silent support as it was thrown across his shoulders, Usopp was grinning as he called out for the village to never forget the adventures of ‘Captain Usopp!’, Sanji smoking on the deck, stealing glances at his captain and first mate when they weren’t looking. Nami grinned as she landed on the deck, home at last, free to make her mark on the world with a hunger for adventure.  

As the pirates surrounded her Nami could only see one escape, she sent a prayer to her Captain, thanking him for giving her freedom, for giving her adventures and the only home she had ever truly loved. It had been everything that the little thief from Coco village could ever ask for, and she wouldn’t trade a second.  

As they approached Nami allowed a smile to come to her face, wobbling she rose to her feet, rolling her shoulders back to stand tall, she was Nami the greatest navigator on the seas, even as her brain swayed with the concussion hitting hard she knew her path.  

“You wanted me to sing, huh, to bring my captain running, well, I will never again be something for a filthy pirate to use!” Nami threw a grin and a wink Blackbeards way before throwing herself over the edge of the cliff, taking flight for the last time. Her last thought was a message a thank you to her captain the one who had shown her what it was to live free.

She willed herself to stay silent as she fell but her tired brain could no longer control her body and her screams echoed throughout the forest bringing pain to those she left behind.  

Chapter Text

Luffy awoke for once peaceful, the combination iron and sweat a homing scent for his soul, warming his heart. Thick arms were wrapped securely round his rubbery flesh, guarding the Captain from the horrors that haunted his sleep. Snuggling deeper Luffy allowed his Haki to unfurl, protectively wrapping around the Merry. Smiling softly as he felt his family so close to being ince more whole; his Navigator lounging on a bench in the mess above, he could almost see her fingers softly picking at the breakfast that had been lovingly prepared by the swirly-browed chef. He could feel Sanji, his heart swelling as he looked over Nami as she ate, taking joy in serving his family, keeping them fed and happy. He could feel how much love Sanji was putting into his preparation of the others breakfast, no matter how the chef would always pretend that he put less effort in the male crews food Luffy knew the truth. Cooking was Sanji's love language and he couldn't help but put his all into every meal he prepared. Moving down from the two awake crew members Luffy felt for his sniper, Ussop's snores echoed through the ship from the males quarters, Luffy giggled lightly, careful not to wake his swordsman. Luffy was home!

His crew East Blue crew was here, they had made it.

They were fast approaching the last island, ready to take on the Grandline and complete their family. Luffy's heart threatened to leap from his chest as it pounded, this was just the beginning. Despite his fears that he was too broken for his crew they had all come back to him, their sparks still shone as bright as they had at the end. His joy bubbled out of him as he stretched his arms around his swordsman pulling himself in closer, his nostrils flaring as he inhaled the familiar scent. 

“Stop you damn’d octopus” Zoro grumbled; his voice thick from sleep even as he pulled his Captain in closer shifting beneath the light sheet.  

Luffy laughed freely as he felt the arms tighten. “Sorry Zoro, I’m just happy.”  

Zoro blinked his eyes open, blaringly looking forward surprised to see Luffy’s neck stretched so he could look at his first mate, a inhumanly large grin stretched across his face. The swordsman chuckled surprised that the sight didn’t horrify him, instead a warm feeling glowed inside Zoro’s chest at the sight of his happy Captain. The swordsman had spent the time since they had set sail from Cocoyasi Village processing the truth of what he had learned. He couldn't fathom what his Captain had been through, but as the boy opened up about the past they had spent many tearful nights holding each other in the dim light of the captains' quarters, Luffy finally giving into his need for comfort. 

Luffy had sacrificed so much to battle through his trauma and bring them back together, Zoro promised would dedicate himself to ensuring his Captain's strife would not be for nothing. Surrendering himself to his clingy captain he rolled his eyes as Luffy burrowed deeper, the younger basking in his joy as the swordsman’s arms held him in their protective grip, here in the secrecy of the Captains quarters the swordsman and the captain allowed themselves to be vulnerable.  

“Wake up you lazy asses.” A shrill scream echoed down from the deck causing Zoro to startle banging his head against the low roof of the small room, much to his Captain's rambunctious joy. The swordsman began to unwind the captain around him, grumbling as he went about Nami the witch, Luffy’s giggled at the entertainment, freeing Zoro from his grip as he launched himself onto the deck loudly demanding Sanji to bring him some meat.  

A few moments later Zoro emerged his back clicking painfully as he was finally able to stretch out fully. He now understood the reasons Luffy insisted sleeping away from the rest of the crew and resigned himself to spending his nights keeping watch over his captain, but the once storage room Luffy had claimed as his truly was not suitable for a human to comfortably reside. Settling his swords on his waist he could see Luffy hovering around a frowning chef who was serving up breakfast for the remaining crew. The chef was a wonder in himself, the blond had followed up his promise of getting stronger, spending hours engaged in training with the Swordsman, but outside of battle the man seemed to avoid Zoro and Luffy. 

From his Captains tales he knew that the three had shared a close bond, known by the world as the monster trio, three powerhouses on the sea who had each others back in battle. The flashes he had seen that fateful day he learned the truth sent shards of glass through Zoro's chest with every cold look the cook sent his way. It felt somehow wrong, but there was nothing that Zoro could do but hope that in time the man would get over what ever issues he was having.

Ussop emerged from the male quarters breaking Zoro's contemplation, the snipers eyes still thick with sleep, his limbs clumsy as he collapsed into a chair, head falling onto the table snores once more escaping his lips. Zoro snorted at the boy as he slept on, at least his time in the Captains room had allowed him some distance from the other boys world shaking snores. 

As Sanji leg shot out holding back the eager captain, his smooth hands placed plates on the table, an elbow harshly nudging the sleeping sniper to wake him. Zoro grinned fondly at the antics, watching as the chef rolled his eyes, a small fond smile appearing on his face even as he pretended to be above it all.   

Once fed the crew gathered on the deck, the sky was a clear blue, sun shining brightly as it chased away the shadows of the ship. The waves peacefully rolling underneath, rocking Merry gently in its grasp, allowing her small crew a chance to relax. Usopp was sat on the deck, mixing a concoction of spices, perfecting his newest invention. Sanji standing guard over Nami’s orange grove, deflecting his captain with what had become a practised precision. Nami was bathed in sunlight a newspaper in hand, one that Luffy remembered from the first timeline. A once treasured paper they had kept around throughout their journey, one that had originally held his first bounty. As Nami tossed the paper aside complaining it was a waste of money Luffy snagged the paper, flipping through to make sure it hadn't been missed, satisfied he tucked the paper away in his pants. The morning rolled by, the peace uninterrupted, with Arlong’s bounty being claimed by Johnny and Yusuke and the crew being too distracted to confront the rat of a marine they had made it to Loguetown without a price on their heads.  

Luffy sighed at the quiet of the day, a younger him may have been disappointed by the lack of a bounty, but now the rubber boy was glad to sail a while longer with his family under the safety of obscurity.  

Drawing closer to the last island, Nami spoke with the crew advising they should take the opportunity to stock up as this would be the last island they see before entering the grandline. Luffy shook with nervous energy, this was it, the resting place of the first Pirate King, the destination where he would begin to change destiny.  

The boy listened distractedly as they pulled into the port town, seamlessly the crew followed Nami's orders to bring Merry to a halt and lay anchor. He listened as the crew finalised there plans, noting that all three were planning to follow the same path they had done the first time around. The captain smiled nostalgic, this town had marked their first outing as an official crew, with a bounty, he remembered how they had all separated each with simple goals to gather supplies, only to quickly stumble into their own mini adventures. 

With Merry securely docked Usopp nervously questioned how smart it was, to leave Merry in a marine town, skull and crossbone flag proudly fluttering in the wind.

Luffy laughed joyously in response. "Don't be silly Usopp, we can't hide Merry, we are strong pirates and proud!" 

Usopp and Nami exchanged nervous looks as Sanji and Zoro nodded their agreement.

They soon separated; Usopp, Nami and Sanji headed off on their endeavours, but Luffy frowned as Zoro remained steadfast at his captain's side as they walked around the stalls, the swordsman hovering nervously not willing to let the rubber boy out of his sight.

Luffy contemplated his swordsman, his head crooked as he observed the man who was following his every move, before sighing in frustration. “I don't need a guard, silly Zoro, go get your swords.” 

Zoro bit his lip looking between his Captain and the direction he believed would lead him to a sword shop. “You won’t run into any trouble?” he asked, the last thing they needed was Luffy loosing himself here surrounded by marines.   

The younger boy grinned a cheeky smile as he remembered what had happened the first time, how his journey had almost ended before it began but he had a different goal this time, besides a normal blade stood no chance against Luffy. “Maybe, but nothing big. It'll be okay Zoro, I'm okay. Promise!"

Zoro contemplated his captains grin, finally satisfied he grunted nudging his captain softly before heading out in search of swords, this town would be easy to find his way around, surely.  

As he watched his swordsman walk the wrong direction Luffy inhaled deeply. He allowed his observational haki to escape him, bleeding out across the town hunting for a familiar figure, his breath calm as he mentally explored the old port. He allowed himself to feel the echoes of emotions around him, flinching as felt the stains of death on the execution platform he had once been so eager to stand on. He could feel the phantom pain and fear of the hundreds of men who had lost their lives in the spot. Strong emotions had a way of imprinting on the aged wood, the last echoes many souls had left on this mortal plain. Ones that only one who had lost everything could understand. Biting his lip as he pushed passed the pain Luffy chased for familiar spirits. The boy smiled softly as he sensed Smoker in the marine base, the gruff man who had been both a friend and a rival in the future. He also felt Buggy, making a mental note of the clowns current whereabouts, it would make his life easier later. Finally he found grinned as he felt the echo he was looking for. He hadn't been certain that his target would be here, but his hunch had proven true, his haki gently wrapped around the figure filling him with warmth.  Opening his eyes the rubber boy determinedly weaved his way through the busy stalls, whistling softly as he approached his goal.   

Luffy reminded himself to stay calm as he approached his goal, even as his eyes watered, unshed tears of happiness as he caught the sight of a familiar hat in the crowd. When making his plans all those years ago with Shanks he had gone over his adventures and realised exactly who had saved him that day, his birth father. The leader of the revolutionaries had been just outside of Luffy's reach, where you found Dragon, his brother was sure to be close. There was no world where Luffy would allow his brother to remember his past in the way he had the first timeline, and this was his best opportunity to change that sad fate.

Luffy’s heart tugged him forwards through the crowd, determined to have another missing piece of his heart.  His breath hitched as he weaved closer through the crowd, hand unconsciously raising as he came within touching distance of his brother, needing to feel him solid under his touch. Just before his hand landed on Sabo’s shoulder the blond turned around.  

Luffy froze hand outstretched as he came face to face with his brother. Sabo startled at the boy so close, one he had not felt approaching. He was a hard person to sneak up on, being as high in the revolutionary army as he was. Curiously he regarded the still outstretched hand held out between them. While he could sense a power coming from the stranger he didn't register as dangerous, in fact he gave Sabo a strange sense of longing.   

“Sabo!” Luffy’s breathed out involuntarily, his emotions getting the better of him.  

Sabo blinked in confusion. “Sorry, do I know you?” his voice was as poised and polite as it always had been, always a contrast against both his brothers' harsher common tones.  

Luffy frowned as Sabo looked at him, his brothers' eyes looking upon him as if he was a stranger. Fear gripping him, he hadn’t been enough for Sabo to remember. Would only Ace’s death prove successful? Luffy refused to let that be his brothers fate.  

Breathing in deeply Luffy gathered his resolve, strengthened his carefree act, ready to drop a bomb on the chief of staff of the revolutionary army.  

“Don’t be silly Bo, it's me Luffy, your brother!” Luffy grinned, act perfect as he watched Sabo’s eyes widen, confusion and shock written over his face as the blond stumbled back as if the boy had punched him.  

“Sorry, I don’t know you.” Sabo’s face was tight, strained. White noise flooding his ears, as his head pounded. He tried to push his way through the fog that suddenly filled his brain, he turned quickly his hand coming up to touch against his scared cheek, numb.

The world crashed back into existence around him, overwhelmed his emotions flared, he needed air. The ghost of a touch on his shoulder and the sound of a eerily familiar laugh on the breeze. He stumbled through the crowd desperate for salvation from the world burning around him, the scent of burning flesh flaring through his nose.   

Luffy could only watch sadly as Sabo stumbled through town, apologising under his breath as he bumped into people and knocked things from stalls as he walked. This hadn’t turned out the way he hoped but he wouldn’t push his brother, Sabo would find his way home to him when he was ready, he was determined that this time ASL would be reunited.  

As Sabo disappeared into the crowd Luffy took a moment to commit his brothers face to memory, to replace the visions of ghosts with the Sabo of now. When he was finally ready he turned to go his own way, remembering that revolutionaries weren’t the only family he had to track down in this town. 

Buggy being the ‘flashy’ pirate he is was easy for Luffy to track down, even without using his Haki. The young captain laughed to himself as he followed closely behind the rather loud clown captain, he joyfully watched as Buggy and his crew tried to hunt for Luffy, allowing the clowns antics to chase away the sadness of his interaction with Sabo.  Eventually when a tired and frustrated Buggy grumpily settled down in a restaurant, loudly complaining that they hadn't been able to track down that 'blasted strawhat!' Luffy allowed himself to be seen. It was just a bonus that his reveal included him stealing the other captain's food from under him, happily munching on the meal until the clown finally noticed his presence. He grinned as the clown launched himself after him, staying just outside of the clowns reach until he could lead him to a dead end.  

When he found the perfect alley for his trap Luffy grinned, silently he launched himself on to the roof watching as Buggy rounded the corner confused where the boy could have disappeared to. With an echoing laugh Luffy launched himself down allowing his body to inflate, blocking the clown’s escape options.  

Luffy’s body wedged itself between the two buildings comfortably, the rubber boy glad that only Buggy had been fast enough to follow him, he didn't think knocking out the clowns crew would be the best start to this chat.   

“Hiya, Uncle Bug!” Luffy grinned as the clown spluttered angry that he so easily fell for the boys trap, not listening to the boy as he raged.  

Luffy just laughed as he listened to Buggy ranting, patiently waiting until the clown finally ran out of steam. Resigned the clown eventually tired himself out, the boy wasn't attacking so he assumed that they were here for some other reason, fine then he'd hear the blasted boy out. Glaring at the rubber boy he lowered himself down to the dusty floor, he arms crossing as he sulked against the alley's wall.  

“What do you want?” The clown asked eager to get this over with as he slumped further into the brick behind him, pulling his hat that had been displaced during his tirade back into place grumpily.  

Luffy grinned, Shanks had been right, this was going to be fun. “Sorry uncle Bug, Shanks wanted me to give you a message.” 

“Wait... UNCLE??” Buggy eyes left his head as he spluttered in shock.  

“Yup!” Luffy's smile stretched in amusement, how had it taken him so long the first time to realise how much fun it was to wind up the clown. “See Shanks is my Pa and your his brother so your my  uncle!”  

“SHANKS IS NOT MY BROTHER, HES A DIRTY BETRAYER WHO BETRAYS PEOPLE!” Buggy screamed. “STOP CALLING ME UNCLE YOU BRAT.”  

Unperturbed the boy laughed deflating his body as he rocked on the floor in mirth. “You’re funny uncle Bug! Anyway, Shanks wants you to meet him, well him and gran’pa-leigh.” 

“Grandpa?” Buggy questioned before he could think it through, curious despite himself. 

“Yeah Old Man Rayleigh, duh.” Luffy rolled his eyes as if the answer was obvious, even as he gleefully watched Buggy’s eyes again left his face in shock. “Pa's on his way there now, so if you leave today you should arrive at around the same time.”

"Where is this going to be taking place?" Buggy asked his confusion momentarily making him forget he was supposed to be angry.  

"Sabaody." Luffy exclaimed with a shrug, watching as Buggy nodded to himself, muttering under his breath about how he could get there quickest and how long it would take, what he would need to stock up on. The rubber boy waited picking his nose as he watched the clown plan, he grinned to himself as Buggy shook himself out of his plans reality crashing around him. 

“Wait just a minute you damned brat!" Buggy spluttered much to Luffy's entertainment. "Let me get this right that stupid red head expects me to drop everything and make my way to the end of paradise in order for what? Some insane pretend family reunion?” Buggy’s tone got more strained as he went on his words spitting from his throat like blades as his anger grew.  

“Yup!” Luffy grinned nodding along joyfully. “See you get it!”  

“Nope, I refuse, I’m happy here, king of the east blue, I can do anything I want, go anywhere I like.” Buggy crossed his arms childishly pouting in determination.  

“Except home.” Luffy looked into Buggy’s eyes suddenly serious. 

“I have no home, I’m a pirate, I don’t need a home.” Buggy seethed, spit flying from his mouth like venom as he got in the straw hats face.  

“He misses you.” Luffy stood threw one last look at Buggy before he decisively turning his back on the clown and slowly walking away.

Without looking the boy held out a haki covered hand, easily catching the clowns flying fist as the raging clown tried to hit him. Turning with a dark glare and thick conquerors haki that seemed to bleed from the boy he regarded the figure now scurrying on the floor. “You know you could have it all Buggy, all you have to do is get over yourself” As the clown cringed at the boys words Luffy's face returned to a joyful grin, the darkness completely disappearing.

"See ya later Uncle Bug!" The boy tossed the fist back to it's owner looking as harmless as a fly whistling as he walked away.   

As he watched the boy leave Buggy collapsed into himself, a singular tear running down his face. After a moment to collect himself the clown pulled himself to his feet slowly trudging back to town in search of a drink. How dare that brat call him family, throwing ghosts of memories better left in the past in his face. How dare that red haired brat demand anything of him after he betrayed him, all he had ever wanted was family, but they had all turned him away. Now they wanted him, when he was finally happy, wasn’t he? Well damn them all to hell, he was going to show them.  

His feet carried him all the way back to his ship his crew ordering his crew to all prepare to set sail.  

It was decided, Captain Buggy was setting sail to Sabaody, he was going to this so called ‘family reunion’ and he would show them all why it was wrong to turn away from Buggy the Clown.  

As Luffy left his uncle behind the strain of the day weighed thickly on him, he had known the day would be emotionally draining, but now his job was done, the rest was in the hands of others he could only hope he had done enough.  

He found himself walking with out noticing to the execution platform, ignored by passers-by. He settled on a bench nearby, one that was engraved with names. As Luffy looked he realised he could recognise some of the names scratched into the old wood, all pirates. Ones who had found their end in this very town. He remembered his first time in this town, how he had eagerly wanted to stand in the spot that the last pirate king had lost his life. How Buggy and his crew had captured him, almost succeeded in executing him, how he had laughed and accepted it even as his crew fought to save him. That Luffy hadn't understood the cost of death to those he was leaving behind, but this one traced the names engraved, he imagined others in their place, the ones he had lost. 

He thought of the ones left behind, the ones who painstakingly carved the names of their loved ones into the wood of the bench, a final defiance to the marines who ran this town.

He sat on the bench allowing the hubbub of the day to drift into the quiet of an evening. The crowds quietened as Luffy sat in the centre of town staring up at the bloodied alter. A clever and ambitious man had changed the world in this place. Unarmed and seemingly defeated he had sacrificed everything to save his family, but even in defeat he had snatched a victory, a final spark. Roger had made history here, alighting a revolution, Luffy silently thanked him for his sacrifice. His death had led Ace to him, had been the reason Shanks survived to cross his path. Roger was his inspiration someone that had been the voice of a generation. 

Luffy imagined what Roger had been thinking in that moment, he understood the mans motives, why would make a declaration that led to the great pirate age. Knowing what he knew of the void century the boy understood the desperation to inspire people to chase freedom, to change the world order.  Sat on a bench that held the names of loved ones who lost the fight looking upon the wood stained with so much fear but a small slither of hope, Luffy made a promise directly to the old pirate king, he would honour his legacy and bring an end to the corrupt powers that reigned from above, this was only the beginning!

He remained there for what seemed like eternity his eyes glued on the place his predecessor's journey had come to an end, it was only the sound of iron clashing that returned him to reality.  

As he blinked owlishly around his eyes found a familiar flash of green dancing in the distance. As he approached, he could see Zoro fighting a familiar figure, swordlady!  

Luffy laughed as he watched the woman trying to break through Zoro’s defences, the swordsman easily deflecting her while refusing to fight, maybe the rubber boy should have warned Zoro about the woman who seemed to have a strange effect on the former pirate hunter.  

He could hear the woman calling out to the marines around her exclaiming the boy had made claims to be a pirate, Luffy laughed joyously as he saw Smoker approaching from the dark his cigars alight in his mouth.  anonymity was overrated anyway Luffy thought as he launched himself at the logia user laughing manically even as the marine turned to smoke around him.  

“What the, who the fuck are you?!” Smoker puffed as he resumed his human form looking back to see a child who had rolled on the floor laughing as his subordinate fought a man he had known as a famous pirate hunter, calling out in her shrill voice that he claimed to be a pirate.  

The boy stood grinning, as his sharp eyes glanced first over the execution stand then roamed over the logia user. “I am Monkey D Luffy, and I’m going to be king of the pirates!”  

Smoker glared, as he stretched his muscles threatening. “What a stupid thing to say here of all places kid, you are just asking for a beating.”  

The kids grin grew impossibly larger his eyes manically glinting. “Bring it Smokey!”  

Zoro smirked, having successfully forced the flailing woman away he glanced at his captain as he stood strong, shoulders rolled back, fist raised, the last of the evening sun shining brightly down on him. He raised his swords as the other marines began to approach finally catching up to the situation.   

“Oh great!” Zoro glanced over at the familiar voice to see Usopp who had stumbled into the clearing eyes fliting over the scene of two of his crewmates facing off against the marine. “There goes a peaceful day.” The sniper muttered lowly voice trembling with fear.  

“Hey brave warrior!” Zoro called getting a spluttered response from Usopp. “Tell Miss Navigator to prepare for sail, we won’t be long here!”  

Usopp blinked owlishly at the two as they stood ready to face the ever-growing crowd of marines before nodding his ascent, he trusted his crew, and they trusted him to prepare their exit.  

Before making his leave Usopp launched a Pepper Star into the growing crowd of white marines, his new goggles glinting and aim true, as he fled he could hear the now familiar sounds of fighting broken up by his captains joyous laugh.

Dragon watched from the shadows as his son faced off against the Marine captain famous for putting an end to pirates careers in Loguetown. He raised his arm ready to intervene as the clouds darkened above in response, his power thrumming under his skin ready to unleash to protect his cub, but as he watched his eyes widened. His son was grinning wildly, his fist landing truly into the captains stomach even as the smoke surrounded him. Haki, Dragon realised shocked, the only thing that could stop a logia user. How had his son learned this? Hadn’t his father kept him safe on Dawn?  

“Fucking Garp.” Dragon growled, he had thought leaving his boy with the older Money D he would be protected, grow up allowed to be a child. He had obviously been foolish; his son knew Haki, an art that took years of rigorous training to perfect, yet his child was apparently proficient, the subtility of how he used it showed a skill many seasoned fighters had yet to learn. He watched as his son and the swordsman at his side made short work of the remaining marines, there attacks coordinated moving together like puzzle piece that had just been slotted into place. It was an art to watch them their attacks carefully aimed to stop the marines in their tracks without causing any real damage.  

In fact as his son made his leave, he could hear him calling out to the marine captain thanking him for a great fight and eagerly advising he couldn’t wait for their next one. Dragon laughed lowly despite himself.  

“Go my son, tell the world your name!” Dragon grinned the winds picking up as he clenched his fist commanding the sea to give Luffy a push on his way.  

With the Going Merry sailing on the horizon Dragon made his way to the cove where his own ship was hidden, smiling as he boarded his eyes landing on the blond he had raised.  

“How’d your day go my boy, were you successful in your endeavour?” Dragon asked, taken aback when his adopted son’s eyes met his own. There was a deep pain in his glance, a storm brewing in the youngers mind, one in which Dragon could not calm.  

“I did not sir, I’m afraid something came up that had me rather distracted.” Sabo bowed his head in shame. “I apologies for my failure!”  

“It is rather unlike you boy, so, tell me what has you out of sorts?” Dragon’s eyes tightened as he approached the boy he saw as a son, his heavy set making the floorboards creak as he stepped forward.  

The blond flinched helplessly stepping back in a fear that Sabo had long ago thought he had gotten over, but in this moment as his past swirled up to the present, history was too close.  Taking a moment to ground himself Sabo counted his breaths, following the instructions Koala had once walked him through for dealing with a panic attack. Glancing around the ship he had once thought of as his only home, the worn floorboards, the slight scent of mouldy aged wood. The sounds of Revolutionaries echoing around him as they prepared for sail. He looked to the man who had saved him from the sea’s cruel clutches.  

“I met my brother.” Sabo breathed, for the first time acknowledging out loud that the floodgates had opened, and his memories had returned.  

He could remember the cold nights alone in a mansion that was his prison. Parents who only gave him warmth in rough hands that tried to beat the rebellious nature from him.  He remembered the streets, even in the wind and rain warmer than the ice in his parents' heart. He remembered Ace, his first brother, rough around the edges but with a soft centre he only let his chosen siblings see. A fire in his heart that kept him and Luffy warm as they curled up in their tree. Luffy, the baby of the group, the one who would cry at the slightest provocation, but could become steel when protecting others.  He remembered how the boy had looked today, all grown up, the image stained behind his lids every time they closed. In the moment with the barrage of memories flooding his system all he could think about was escape, to find a corner to deal with the storm of emotions crashing around him threatening to drown him, but now... he couldn’t unsee it. Even though Luffy had been smiling and laughing there had been something wrong, a desperation to his tone, his brother was obviously suffering but Sabo had turned tail and run, he needed to fix this.  

“Dragon, sir. I understand my failure is a slight on my record of performance, however I must request you release me from duties for a time.” Sabo expression begged the older man to listen. “My... memories have returned, and I would like... no I need to go see my brother.”  

“Your memories have returned, huh?” Dragon asked his brow raised as he made his way to the mast looking out over the sea as they made their way from dock the winds still providing speed to their escape. “We found you on the outskirts of Dawn, correct?”  

Sabo nodded coming in close to Dragon speaking in a low voice to prevent being overheard. “I was born there, to a family of nobles.” Sabo reluctantly revealed watching his leaders face for signs of disgust, when he only found curiosity he continued his tale. “They weren’t my family really, no my family was a group of mountain bandits, more so their charges. My brothers. Ace and Luffy.”  

Dragon took a subtle inhale at the reveal that the boy he had raised was connected to the son he had given up for protection. "Let me guess, one of those bandits was called Dadan?" Sabo nodded shocked that the man knew the burley woman.  “So the brother you met was Luffy.” his voice was but a whisper on the wind that Dragon had wrapped around them, providing the a veil of privacy.  

“What?” Sabo spluttered his mouth opening in shock.  

“I also saw your brother in town, he looked well, strong.” Dragon revealed, crossing his arms as the rough air made his hair fly wildly behind him.  

“You know who he is?” Sabo asked curiously.  

“He is my son.” The man revealed, reluctant to speak his secret, but if anyone deserved to know it was his boy, the one he raised and his other sons brother.  

“Monkey D Dragon.” Sabo breathed as he, hung his head at the stupidity, how had he not connected the two, he had seen Dragons bounty poster many times where it hung as a trophy in the Revolutions base, and now his memories were once more intact he of course remembered Luffy’s full name. When he thought it over it made a strange sense, the two men shared a lot of features. Sabo also noted the reason they had been in Loguetown had been such a trivial matter, and yet the leader had insisted he join them. Dragon rarely left the base, but he had been persistent in joining them on a trip to the weakest of the blues. “Wait, your Garps son! Honestly that explains a lot”  

Dragon laughed lowly placing his hands on the rails, he knew he shared a lot of traits with his father, it wasn’t a secret both carrying their names proudly, but the hero of the navy and the leader of the revolutionaries were two names not often connected.  

“It’s a good thing Iva’s undercover, they would definitely get a kick out of this.” Dragon chuckled a gruff smile on his face. “Your request is granted my boy, as soon as we make land, we will get you a ship and you can have as much time as you need.”  

Sabo put his hand on dragons own tentatively touching the gruff man he saw as father. “Thank you. When Luffy came to me, I couldn’t tell at the time, but something was wrong. He’s suffering.”  

Dragon absorbed the confession looking out to the rough seas. “I saw him facing some marines, he was strong, but you’re right there was something wrong. The power he held is something that should not be so easy to him.” Dragon turned to face his adopted son. “When you find him, tell him who I am. Tell him I’m sorry, I wanted him to have a chance at a free life, but obviously I failed.”  

With his final words he allowed the wind to fall, the curtain of privacy collapsing with it. He nodded once to Sabo, before turning towards the crew barking orders to make sail through the calm belt, removing his dark heavy cloak and handing it to a nearby set of hands as he made his way to his office. 

Sabo looked out to sea a soft smile on his face as he thought of the past, of nights gathered under furs in basking in the warmth of each other.  

“I’m coming Luffy, I can’t wait to see who you've become.”  

Sabo groaned as he pushed himself up from the fiery remains of their camp. He asked himself how fucked up he must be that the smell of burning flesh no longer turned his stomach, how had he grown so used to the scent?  

He looked around his eyes hungry for signs of life, the familiar thunder rumbling above told him that his boss must have survived the siege, it would take more than that blasted Blackbeard to take him down.  

He stumbled to his feet in time to hear a bloodcurdling scream coming from the chard remains of the medical tent. His own pain forgotten, Sabo lurched forward, he could see the familiar figure of Law charging beside him, good, his brother would be broken if he lost the doctor – but if Law was here safe that left... Nami.  

His feet hastened beneath him desperate to prove his thoughts wrong, he pictured the navigator. Her smile that spoke of adventures and freedom. Her eyes forever calculating, digging down into people and finding their secrets. She belonged to the sea, understood it more than any other he had met.

When he crashed into the blackened remains of the tarp that had once protected the tent from the world outside, he found himself faced with a figure drowning in grief.

Sanji had been the first to come across the scene, determined to check on the only member of his crew he had known was alive. Blackbeard had caught the army on backfoot, their strongest warriors had been gathered in the centre plotting a path that would lead them to Luffy and his group.  

Sanji had been in attendance as the left hand of the future king, listening as his captain's family argued over the best course of action. He learned there was many factions warring on the island, the largest group was the marines who had all been withdrawn from their outposts to gather on this island, desperate to stop anyone from retrieving the coveted treasure.  In truth they were acting on behalf of Imu, the person who had held the strings of the world for centuries. Moving in the background he had made the planet his puppet, one he was not willing to set free, even if he had to burn it down to stop it.  

The second biggest faction was thankfully there’s, even with the losses they had sustained they had allies across the planet who had all come to their side to help balance the scales. Even the marines who had learned the truth had gathered at their side stepping into the light for the first time, striving for a new future, one where real justice could be achieved. They all believed in his captain, trusted him to lead them to a better horizon, one where people could live free.  

The last was Blackbeard and his amassed army full of true criminals and murderers. Many pirates who believed freedom meant that they could take what they wanted had fallen into step behind this dark figure. His power had only grown in time and the fact that he had been able to ‘tame’ two devil fruits had made him a legend to many who had flocked behind him to make his last stand for the title of king.  

It had been the man’s bloodthirst ruthless nature that had led to their loss that day. He had silenced any who stood in his way, making his way through over half the camp before the alarm had been raised. Sanji’s first goal had been to get to his crewmates side, he knew Law was there and had the skill to keep her safe but after all the loss Sanji needed to see her, but when he arrived, he was greeted by a burned down tent devoid of any signs of life. The only clue of what had become of his sweet Nami was the remains of a familiar hat that he knew she would not have left behind.     

When Law and Sabo stumbled in, they found the air thick with grief, the charred remains of furnishings had been pushed by a dark force to the edges of the tent and Sanji lay screaming a bloodied blue and pink hat curled in his hands.  

“That’s Tony-ya's.” Law breathed, stepping forward reaching to touch a hand to the familiar fabric.  

Sanji’s wild eyes snapped up, his hand jutting out like a viper to grab Law’s wrist. “You were supposed to be here.” He spat venom with his word. “You were going to take care of her! Where is she, where is my Nami!” He pulled Law in, his other hand reaching out to grab the scruff of Laws shirt.  

“I...” Law started, shame falling on his shoulders as he realised he had left, and Nami had paid the price.  

“I trusted you!” Sanji wailed, his fist coming up, hands still untouched by violence, ones that he always used to bring joy, but joy was dead, first Zoro, now Nami. He was broken and he would break everything that lead him here, even if he called them friend. His fist landed, pain blossoming across Law’s cheek but the words cut deeper. “Luffy trusted you, but you failed him”  

“I’m sorry Sanji-ya.” Law muttered blinking up at the chef from behind his bruising face.  

Sabo stepped forward his hand reaching out to grab Sanji’s fist. “Maybe we aren’t too late. Think about it, Nami isn’t here, maybe we can save her.”  

Sanji blinked through his grief, a small hope blooming inside, deep down he knew it was fruitless, Blackbeard had torn through the camp leaving countless bodies in his wake, he wasn’t known for his compassion, if Nami was with him there was a motive, one that didn’t bode well for his navigator. No matter how small his chances were Sanji would risk his life to save Nami, his captain would understand, he always did. “Okay...” Sanji nodded lowering his hand and slowly releasing Law. “but you are going to help me get her back, you owe her that!” Sanji pointed his finger sharply into Law.  

“Of course, Sanji-ya, we will find her.” Law nodded raising a hand to stroke over the tender skin of his face.  

Chapter Text

Luffy whistled joyfully to himself as he bounced his way through the metal tunnels that snaked through Laboons internal system. Overjoyed they had made it to this moment. The second step on their journey. He had somehow convinced his family to join his crew a second time, and although somethings had changed they still felt like his. Him and Zoro were still sharing their own quarters much to the confusion of the other Strawhats, Luffy could tell that they were whispering about the arrangement behind closed doors but he couldn't let that bother him when he got to sleep in the comforting arms of his closest friend and brother. Nami had begun to flourish taking to the sea like a natural, reading the weather in a way no one else could. She was born to be a pirate her nature made for life on the open seas hunting treasure to her hearts desire. 

Usopp had begun to create more weapons, encouraged by his Captain he had begun work on Nami's first Clima-Tact, Luffy wanting his navigator to be able to defend her self earlier then the first lifetime. He had also suggested Usopp explore a variation on his slingshot, differing models for different situations that may come up. Bolstered by his Captains praise he had taken to inventing joyfully, constantly showing off his creations to Luffy's delight. 

Sanji however was a different story, true him and Zoro had begun training together, both pushing each other to get stronger and faster, but outside of battle Sanji had begun to shut down. Still he flirted with Nami going through the motions of his learned behaviours, wearing the masks his Sanji had long since let go off, Luffy missed his chef. The man who had blossomed after their time on Cake Island, the one who had learned to love himself in spite of his perceived flaws. The one who burned brightly with passion, who would always be there to support them when they needed it with a softness he only showed to family. It struck Luffy that they weren't yet his family, and it stung each time Sanji would push the crew away to hide behind his many walls. The rubber captain couldn't help but feel he was making it worse. He knew Zoro and Sanji had always had a special bond, but now he was taking up so much of the swordsmans time, what if it damaged who Sanji would become?

He shook himself from his thoughts, that path was not one he would travel, he had to trust his crew would come around in time, they had each other and that was all they needed.

The journey through reverse mountain had been smoother than the last time, Luffy providing subtle protections to Merry from the thrashing waves with his haki, he refused to treat his ship with the accidental carelessness they had the first time, she was crew and deserved to be protected as such, of course nothing could stop Usopp pulling the rudder loose in his blind panic.  

Luffy had smiled sadly to himself when Laboon came into view, he had once hoped that the next time he would greet the whale would be with Brook at his side. Quietly he swore that next time he would meet Laboon would be while playing a song with his musician. Not wishing to allow his ship to be further damaged in a collision Luffy had sent a tendril of Haki to the creature to get his attention before taking flight with cheeky wave, launching himself to the whales head just in time to watch Merry be swallowed whole, chuckling at his crews loud exclamations before making his own way inside.   

The rubber boy wandered his way through the winding tunnels continuing to whistle happily to himself, he could sense two humans ahead and was eagerly making his way to the crews lost princess. Vivi was always a member of the Straw hats even as her loyalty to her country had kept her in dry land. Luffy couldn’t wait to have her back onboard.  

When Luffy turned the corner to see the two undercover Baroque agents ahead he laughed joyously as the floor began to shake launching him forward directly into the path of the two figures. The momentum of them colliding sending them all tumbling through the doors, flying towards the sea of acid that was Laboons stomach.  

“Zoro!” Luffy cried as he flew through the air, seeing his crew and loyal first mate stood on board the Merry below. “Catch!”  

As they flew Luffy used his elongated limbs to launch the two agents towards the Merry trusting his swordsman to catch them, before using his arms to halt his own fall launching himself securely to the top of Merry’s mast. 

He laughed joyously as he landed on the deck below even as his crew started ranting at him for getting them swallowed by the whale. Dropping to sit on the floor he quietly inspected the two apparent strangers currently on board. Both slightly ruffled from their rude landing, Zoro wasn't exactly known for his gentle nature. The red head male was someone Luffy could not remember from the last time around no matter how he searched his memory, unimportant he decided besides what was with that stupid plastic crown? It was almost laughable when you consider he was working next to real royalty the whole time. The crown was skewed on his head almost falling down to around his neck as he shook in fear. Luffy turned his attention away from the man and his heart skipped a beat as his eyes fell on Nefertari Vivi for the first time in years. His hungry eyes absorbed every detail, her cover as Ms Wednesday meant she was currently wearing a look that was uncomfortable on Vivi's skin, her hair gripped in a tight high ponytail that pulled the features of her face back sharply giving her an age that was not earned. Her features made up to make her normally heart shaped face more angled, it felt wrong.   

As Luffy silently observed the two they muttered to each other. He could see the fear in Vivi’s eyes as she noted they were surrounded by pirates although she shouldered the fear better then her companion who became whiney with anxiety.

“He’s laughing at us Ms Wednesday, and those arms, he must be one of those devil users.” Mr 9 muttered his voice a whined drawl.  

“He can hear you.” Luffy grinned leaning his head back unnaturally as he crossed his arms in front of him. “You have a silly hat, crown-guy.” He declared pointing to the offending item, he saw a spark of humour behind Vivi's eyes that made him smile harder.   

“Captain, what do you want done with these two.” Zoro asked stepping up beside his Captain glaring down at the strangers, noting that the male looked like he was going to wet himself with fear.  

Luffy shrugged before standing up to step forward, bringing himself directly in front of Vivi he leaned down to look deeply into her eyes assessing. When he found what he was looking for he hummed as he brought his foot down on her bazooka gun crushing the metal inwards rendering it useless, as they started to complain he repeated the action on the other weapon the male held.  

As Mr 9 continued to protest loudly, Vivi assessed the situation, she was a princess trained in the art of bartering, surely there was a way out of this situation without getting them killed. Here they  were surrounded by pirates, one of whom had a mysterious power and could crush metal without breaking a sweat, fighting would only bring pain.

“We’re sorry Mr Pirate we mean you no harm, right Mr 9...” Vivi nudged her companion into silence before prompting him to nod his agreement. “We are desperate, you see our poor village is starving to death, we only thought that this creature could bring us some much needed food, but we are very sorry!” Vivi pleaded bowing low before the boy.  

Luffy bent down capturing the blue haired woman's face, gazing deeply into her eyes before breaking out in a large grin that split across his face, Vivi couldn’t help a pang of hope that flooded her system, a strange emotion considering her situation. “It’s fine Princess, everything is going to be okay.” Luffy promised solemnly, his words sending a spark of fear through Vivi’s heart, he couldn’t know could he?  

“Oh I’m not a Princess, My name is Ms Wednesday.” Vivi spluttered desperately. “We are merely villagers from a local island... its his hat isn’t it?” She laughed tensely. “Cheap plastic, haha, you were right what a ridiculous thing to wear.”  

Vivi’s false voice sent shivers down Luffy's spine, the forcibly nasal tone to separate herself from her royal heritage, he hated it, after years with out his Princess he wanted her back as herself not this stupid fake, but if she wanted to continue the act who was he to deny his crew.

“Okay not a princess, Princess.” Luffy grinned, knowingly teasing his soon to be friend.  

Vivi spluttered as she continued to deny the moniker but was interrupted from her desperate tirade by the old lighthouse guy appearing and scolding them for trying to hunt the whale. Vivi was silenced, embarrassed by her actions and thankful the pirate captain had successfully stopped their plan, she hadn’t wanted to hurt the defenceless creature that seemed so pained, but orders were orders in the agency.  

“They were desperate old man, people do stupid things when they are hungry.” The blond chef stepped forwards stopping Crocus’ tirade. “Beside a beautiful angel like that could do no wrong” Sanji turned to Vivi love hearts in his eyes before Nami smacked him across the head.  

The rubber boy laughed. “I’m with Sanji, sides' they said sorry, so we should help them, right Zoro?” He nudged the terrifying man behind him. 

Zoro looked at his captain seeing a pleading look in the boys eyes he nodded his ascent grunting in agreement.  

“It’s settled we’ll help them, but first Sanji MEAT!” Luffy cried as they set sail to finally leave the inside of the whale.   

Vivi and her companion watched tensely from their position at the base of a tree awaiting the perfect moment to slip away and try to make their escape back to base to explain what had happened on this mission. They could see the crew relaxing on the island, the long nosed one concentrating as he lovingly checked the ship for damages, he had already repaired the rudder and was surprised that the ship seemed unscathed from their rough entry to the grandline. The chef was dancing around the camp, knifes moving flawlessly as he worked his way around the ingredients he was preparing, easily catching the captains rubber arms every time he tried to sneak a bit of food. The swordsman was watching them eerily as he sharpened his weapons, the only female was sat talking to the old man who kept throwing them dirty looks.  

It was Nami who brought the subject up, as she spoke to the man querying about the Whale who had a home in his stomach, she curiously questioned about the scars that zigzagged across Laboon's head. The crew settled in happily to listen to the mans tale, even the Mr 9 and Ms Wednesday leaning in curious despite them selves. As they listened to the sad tale they all reacted with gasps and the girls had tears in their eyes, both baroque agents feeling guilt at trying to end the poor creatures life. 

As he listened Luffy couldn’t help but grip his fists in anger, the old man was talking about his friend, his musician who was currently alone, stuck on an island of darkness, his only dream to return to this very place. He would never abandon a friend. Never.   

“You shouldn’t be so cruel old guy; they wouldn’t abandon a friend without reason!! Luffy muttered darkly, his aura snapping around him. “The grandline is a dangerous place, right? How can you be sure something didn’t happen”  

Crocus regarded the boy closely, his honed senses picking out the subtle hint of a powerful Haki bleeding out from the small frame.  

“You think death is a better ending then them turning tale and running, huh?” Crocus his brow raised curiously as he challenged the boy in front of him, there was something here he thought.  

“You don't abandon friends.” Luffy snapped as his haki flared the fire blowing out from the pressure.  

Crocus raised a brow as the crew around startled curious about the sudden flair of wind, he watched as the boy shook himself from his mind regaining some semblance of control. He walked away, heading towards the cliff face closest to where Laboon was wailing sadly. 

The old man followed silently as the boy made his way to the whale who had approached the cliff face to regard him.

“Hey Laboon, you wanna hear a song, I'm not as good as Brook but I think he'd like you to hear it okay?” The boy muttered, allowing his eyes to close as his mind travelled to the past and Laboon wailed sadly. “Yohohoho, yo-ho-ho...”  

Crocus’ eyebrow raised as the boy sang a song that was in the blood of every pirate, singing with such sorrow, one that touched an unhealed wound in the doctors soul that had him quietly singing along thinking back to a crew long since left behind. Laboon began to whistle along sadly, all three thinking back to crews now gone.

The final island lay out before them, deceivingly peaceful under the moonlit sky. The sail had been fraught and tiring but they had made it, and as they gathered around the deck on the last night they were happy.  

Luffy, Usopp and Chopper were tumbling around the deck in a joyous game of tag that had all the Strawhats laughing fondly over. This fool was going to be king of the pirates and they couldn’t be happier. Nami and Zoro were deep into a drinking competition cheered on by Franky who was happily keeping to his cola. Robin and Jimbe were leant over old tomes that told tales of the island ahead, no matter how fantastical it seemed they had learned in their time at sea to expect the unexpected. Sanji exited the kitchen doling out snacks to the thankful crew, his soft touch lingering on the back of the swordsmans head as he drunkenly nuzzled at the hand. Brook chuckled as he watched his crew from the sidelines strumming softly on his guitar.  

He was so glad to be here, to have a second chance to make his dream come true, and thanks to this crew he had a second chance at life.  

For decades he had rotted in Thriller Bark, drowning in his grief at the loss of his crew, lamenting never hearing Laboons happy trills again, but he knew that this was the last stop on the way to his dream. That soon he would see his old friend again and tell him the tales of adventure on the grand line.  

As he thought his hands strummed a familiar tune, he reverie was broken by his jubilant Captain leading the crew in a rambunctious rendition of Bink’s Sake. The crew laughed and sang there way happily into the night, excited for what dawn would bring.    

As the song came to an end Crocus eyed the young boy as tears ran freely down his face.  

“Brook’s coming Laboon.” Luffy promised as his hand wiped at the tears on his face. “He is a loyal friend who would never run or abandon his crew, even when all seems lost, he would have a song to give. You will see him again Laboon, I swear it, so you gotta stop hurting yourself.” 

Laboon trilled in agreement; he would wait for them to return. 

Luffy smiled softly as he nodded to the whale before turning to head back to his crew.  

“Your making a pretty steep promise.” Crocus muttered to the boy, watching as Laboon happily cried.

"You've grown bitter old man, but I'll prove you wrong, you'll see." Luffy declared as he glared at the old man. 

"You remind me of someone..." Crocus looked to the boy seeing another pirate in his youth before the horrors of the world tore them all apart, but this boy was different he looked like he knew the darkness the world held, knew what was to come but would face it all and triumph for the sake of his crew, for the people he cared for. "Who are you?"  

“I’m Monkey D Luffy, and I’m going to be king of the pirates.” He declared proudly before walking passed the old man leaving him alone with his ghosts.  

“Is this the one Roger?” Crocus looked to the sky, tears in his eyes but a smile on his face, for the first time in centuries he felt hope.   

Luffy grinned as the crew tucked into the feast that Sanji had lovingly prepared, looking fondly on as Vivi edged her way forward nervously picking at the plate the chef had placed in front of her even as her companion complained it could be poisoned.  

Grinning Luffy helped himself to the pouting man’s food, laughing when the man feebly protested. "What you didn't want it!"   

They ate on peacefully until the red headed man pointed at something on the horizon.  

“Oh no, the Unluckies... they found us.” Mr 9 cried as he pointed to the creatures quickly approaching.  

“Drat, we’ve been gone to long.” Vivi panicked feeling around for something to protect herself with.  

Luffy looked up seeing the vulture and otter team flying at them bombs in hand, ignoring the cries of fear from the two agents the pirate captain stretched his hand out plucking them from the sky, causing them to drop the explosives harmlessly to the sea.  

“How’d this bird taste?” he held out his prize to Sanji who shrugged in response lighting a cigarette.  

“Not a lot of meat... but I’m sure I could work something out.” Sanji replied as he took a drag.  

“Nice!” Luffy cheered “New food unlocked.”  

The creatures shivered in the boy's hand disgruntled and terrified as they were thrown into a cage.  

The two baroque agents watch with worry as their colleagues were easily caged, stood just out of hearing range as they whispered between themselves.   

“They stopped the Unluckies just who are these monsters... we need to run! Now, maybe if we can get back to base we can explain everything and we’ll be forgiven.” Mr 9 cried quietly to his companion who looked over at the rubber boy considering.  

“Hum, they certainly are strong... but they’ve been friendly enough, certainly not like any pirate I’ve ever heard of.” Vivi contemplated muttering to herself. “Perhaps they could be of use.”  

“We should bring them back with us!” Vivi announced a plan coming into fruition in her brain, these pirates were certainly tough and something about the Captain made her want to keep him close. “Surely if we bring back a catch this good, all will be forgiven, and with backup we can release the Unluckies safely.”   

“Bring them with us, are you mad!” Mr 9 whined.  

“Think about it Nine, they make a much better prize then that dumb whale. They may be strong but they don't have much brains, we can trap them easily, and Mr 0 will forgive all.” Vivi persuaded. 

“Fine, but how do we convince them?” Mr 9 pouted his arms crossed.  

“Hey, Strawhat, Luffy, right?” Luffy looked over nodding eagerly at the blue haired princess. “Would it be too much of an imposition for you to provide us a lift home? We can ensure you are compensated for the inconvenience.”  

“Compensation!” Nami looked up dollar signs in her eyes.  

“The more the ‘Merry’ier, Princess.” Luffy grinned cheekily as Vivi flinched.  

“More time with this delectable lady, oh my darling you have made me the happiest man on the planet!” Sanji swooned as Zoro whacked him rolling his eyes.  

“Now we just have to work out how to get there this damned compass is just spinning!” Nami spoke up smacking at the useless item.  

Chapter Text

Luffy was delighted as they began their first real voyage on the Grandline. The rubber boy had long grown used to the unpredictable seas in this part of the world, taking each change of the wind in his stride, happily playing with Usopp in the snow, rain and sun as it changed around them. He could feel his crews stress as they struggled to keep up with the sudden changes but Luffy couldn't help grinning. This was his life, one his crew would grow to love. 

Nami was tired and frustrated as she tried to get to grips with the seas around them, her temper short and frayed by their visitors who had taken to insulting her every decision forcing her question herself.

Luffy watched Vivi, her Ms Wednesday act was growing old fast. The snide remarks and sneering face sending jolts of annoyance through the crew. Luffy wanted was his princess back to how she should be, his royal friend who cared deeply and passionately. The person who had sacrificed everything for her country, had been brave enough to throw her life away to protect her people. Instead they were currently stuck with this nasally fake who wore her face. He understood why Vivi was hiding but he couldn’t stand the façade, so he tried to break it.  

“Hey, Princess?” Luffy called springing to her side, ignoring her grumble about not being a princess. “Since we are taking you home, tell us what its like?”  

Vivi blinked owlishly as her brain conjured images of home, the one she hadn’t seen for the longest time, and missed dearly. The place she worried about daily only receiving scraps of information from the news coo she religiously read daily. “Urm, well, my home... its a lovely place, simply beautiful. We are going through a tough time at the moment-with the food shortage you see. I know it will pull through; it must be okay...” Vivi broke off looking out to sea, her eyes glassy as she looked in the direction of Alabasta.  

“Don’t be so droll Ms Wednesday... these ‘Pirates’ should be informed.” Mr 9 drawled childishly as he clapped his hands, drawing all attention to him. He leaned forward on his perch besides the blue haired woman who blinked her eyes to his forcefully putting her mask back on nodding along with her partner eagerly. “Our home celebrates pirates and they would be very excited to meet you, especially considering the news today!”  

“News?” Nami blinked looking over at the two 'guests'.  

“Oh, you didn’t get see the coo. Well, your captain has certainly made his mark...” Mr 9 held out a bounty poster. “Have a look for yourselves, Straw hat Luffy 40,000,000.”  

“Huh..” Luffy muttered looking at the poster of himself, holding his hand out to gently touch the picture they had used. It was from his battle with Smoker, darker than any of the posters he had received in his last journey. His face was shrouded in shadows; fists black, loudly declaring to the world he knew armament haki, something almost unheard of in the blues. It explained the higher price on his head even when he hadn’t made the mark he had the first time around. It would certainly concern the government that a rookie had appeared from nowhere with the skills to hold his own against a logia marine Captain. He bit his lip sharply drawing blood, the taste of iron making his stomach swirl.  

It was obvious in this poster how different he was, where once was a joyful boy on a journey of adventure was now a fighter, powerful and almost desperate in his plight.  

He was broken.  

“Luffy...” Nami’s voice was tender as she took in her captain, frozen in shock, his lip reddened with blood as he worried it between his teeth, she reached a hand out to gently pull the lip free.  

Luffy took a breath, reminding himself he needed to reassure his crew. Looking at his red headed friend he allowed an easy grin to come to his face, even as his eyes watered. “Hey, I got a bounty, I’m a real pirate.” His voice was slightly shaky, cracking under the emotions swirling inside. 

Nami nodded smiling softly, stroking her Captains face, wanting to take away the boys pain. “It’s a good one too, bigger then anyone in the East Blue, you must have really ticked off that marine guy.”  She laughed gently the noise ringing like a bell. 

“Smokey... yeah must have done, I look strong huh?” Luffy gave the navigator a genuine smile, thankful Nami hadn’t pushed the issue. 

“The toughest... no one can stop you from being king!” Nami grinned wrapping her arms around her captain who nodded into her shoulder, taking the moment to hide his face from the world.  

Vivi watched on curiously, these pirates were certainly different then she had expected. In most moments they acted carefree, childishly sailing the Grandline seemingly with no experience or knowledge of what to expect. The Captain seemed to have no sense of propriety, and the crew had no clear structure. Occasionally she would see flashes of something deeper, a trauma that seemed to haunt the young captain, something that Vivi could empathize with. Every time she closed her eyes, she could see her people, suffering, dying all because of one man's hunger for power. As she looked at the poster in front of her she saw a fighter, someone strong enough to take on a Marine Captain, but when she looked up she could only see a lost little boy who made her heart yearn to protect him. She had been taught that pirates were a selfish breed who couldn’t be trusted, still there was something there, something that made Vivi want to claim this boy as one of hers.  Disturbed by the feeling Vivi withdrew to the quiet of the ships kitchen watching from the distance as the crew circled around their captain, providing a distraction from his distressing thoughts. 

Luffy smiled softly to himself as Whiskey Peak appeared on the horizon, as soon as they were close enough their two guests took the opportunity to flee, one more night and their princess would truely be back among them, and what a night it would be. Even if it was a trap Luffy wouldn’t be turning down these bounty hunters hospitality, especially when it came with free food. The crew could do with a night of celebrations and him and Zoro would be enough to ensure nothing bad happened.  

He watched on munching his food with glee as his crew enjoyed their various vices, Nami and Zoro easily outdrinking the gathered mercenaries, while Usopp told his tales and Sanji bathed in the affection of women.  

No matter how fake this town may be the joy his crew was feeling was real. His crew knew how to celebrate and they were pirates who had no guilt taking all that was offered. Easily drinking and eating their way through the dwindling stocks.   

Luffy giggled to himself as he watched Zoro 'pass out', he could tell the swordsman was just resting his eyes, alert for when the festivities would end and the masks would come off. He laughed at Nami's act knowing the slight girl could out drink a giant, had done on several occasions in fact. His navigator sure knew how to swindle people. Slowly the rest of the strawhats joined Zoro in slumber till only Luffy remained, his stomach full he carefully closed his eyes. Luffy hated playing asleep, the darkness of his closed eyes giving way to the demons lurking inside, flashes of the past fluttering by as he tried to remain focused on the present, he wished he could find sanctuary Zoros arms, but he had a role to play here, one that meant he had to follow the trap laid out by the towns people.  

Vivi watched on as the Strawhats finally drifted off, shaking away the tentative threads of affection, 'what fools' she reminded herself, they had selfishly wasted months of supplies that the people here desperately needed, but still finally they were asleep.  

Ms Monday echoed Vivi's thoughts, her tone bitter as she raised her concern at the dent the crew had left in their stocks especially as they had failed to bring back the whale. Vivi felt a sharp hit of guilt at her failure, made worse by the secret glee that she hadn't succeeded. She knew desperation but had never wanted to bring harm to an innocent creature. Hopefully the offering of a high bountied pirate would be enough to save them from the bosses' wrath, especially when they were so close to bringing him down.  

As the numbered agents spoke amongst themselves, they failed to notice the activity down at the docks, a large tortoise swiftly pulling up along the dock, dropping off two figures before sailing a safe distance away, melting back into the shadows of the night.  Followed by a small sloop which quietly sailed into port a single inhabitant on board. They also remained blissfully ignorant as the as the plotting strawhats dropped their act of sleep, each going after their own personal targets. Zoro climbing the tallest building nearby, his silhouette illuminated by the full moon, awaiting the perfect opportunity to strike, excited by the chance to test his growing skills on the town of bounty hunters.  

Nami smirked as she began pilfering the town looking for anything of value as she took to the shadows trusting Zoro and Luffy to handle business while she reaped the profit of reward.  

Luffy whistled as he made his way down to the docks, he knew Zoro could handle himself against the gathered Baroque Works agents, it would be a good workout for his swordsman, last time Luffy had only served as a distraction to Zoro's rampage, besides the Captain had different plans for his time here. Smirking Luffy picked his way to the coast, his eyes flickering across the dock, desperately seeking out his target, pausing when he felt the haki of an unexpected familiar figure heading his way. Luffy bit once more at his torn lip, this was a change he hadn’t been expecting, he had a plan here to be followed... but it was Sabo, his brother was here.  

Before his brain could process what was happening he was launching himself over the dock colliding directly with his brother rubbery limbs surrounding him as strong arms came up to hold him as they both sobbed both with joy and grief, gripping each other desperately, fully reunited as brothers for the first time on the ragged sloop.   

“God, Luf look at you, you’ve gotten so strong.” Sabo cried as he cradled his brothers face, his observant eyes picking out every new scar on his brothers' frame.  

“Your back!” Luffy sobbed voice full of desperation as he nuzzled his face into his brothers neck.  

“How’d I ever leave you, you rubber idiot...” Sabo cradled his brother close as the boy’s body crumbled under the waves of emotion.  

“I missed you.” Luffy sobbed collapsing into his older brother, one he had lost twice, but never would again.  

“It’s okay Luf I’m here now, I’m here.” Sabo continued to hold his brother as he cried himself to exhaustion, offering assurances as his hands desperately clung to the rubber flesh desperate to prove his brother was there, that they were together again. 

They remained curled up together as the sounds of fighting filtered through from the village in the distance.  It took time for Luffy to be able to regain his composure his eyes watering every time they met his brothers face. They sat there together not needing words just needing each other, there would be plenty of time to talk later for now they just bathed in each others company. 

As the sounds of fighting began to slow down Luffy realized he was running out of time, any moment now Vivi's plight would be revealed, and they would need to flee the town. If he wanted to enact his plan it would need to be now. “Shit...” Luffy muttered looking to the distance where he could feel a familiar presence. He had hoped to be able to speak with his archaeologist alone, but he wouldn't let Sabo out of his sight now, not when he just got him back, no he would have to bring him along.  

Sabo blinked at his brother’s words, Luffy had never been one for swearing, his tone had always been light, playful, the opposite of Ace, but the brother in front of him was different, older jaded, but still undeniably Luffy.

“There’s something I need to do, but it's kind of secret...” Luffy muttered, his brown eyes fixed on something in the distance.  

“Okay?” Sabo asked raising a brow. “I’m good with secrets, unlike some people I know.” He grinned as he gently ruffled his brother's hair.  

“Hey, I’m better now!” Luffy pouted, pushing his lip out as he leaned into his brother, joy jolting through him at the familiar brotherly teasing. He smiled softly at Sabo as he pulled away, softly climbing to his feet, in a way so unlike the boy's normal demeanour.  

“See over there that Tortoise." Luffy pointed to a point out at sea, Sabo narrowing his eyes could just make out the profile of the creature, a person seemingly standing on the top facing out to sea. He nodded at his brother. "There’s someone up there I need to see, do you trust me.” Luffy asked a familiar question that always spelled trouble.  

“Me, trust you, the reckless little ball of destruction?” Sabo grinned putting his pipe in its rightful place on his back eyes sparkling. "Every time!" 

Luffy grinned throwing a rubbery arm around his brother as he used the other to launch them out to sea, landing flawlessly on the tortoise's back. As Sabo caught his breath he was shocked to see the profile of the woman he had seen from the dock was still facing out to sea, there was no way she was unaware of her unannounced visitors, and yet she was seemingly unperturbed by their presence.  

Sabo watched on as Luffy smiled softly walking forward.  

“A pirate and a revolutionary, what could they possibly want with little old me?” The velvet voice greeted them, the women holding her position a bazooka held in hand that pointed to sea, but Luffy could see the eyes poking out from the wooden frame, spying on them subtly.  

Luffy laughed joyously as he looked upon his Robin, he could only see the side of her face but could make out the familiar upturn of a smirk on her lips. The rim of her cowboy hat covered her eyes, a shield for her battered soul. “Just wanted to say Hi, and let you know I'm taking the princess home.” Luffy announced grinning. "You can't stop me!"  

“Humm, what a strange declaration, but fine I’ll play, after all you are quite adorable Captain.” Robin shrugged lowering her weapon and turning to face her visitors, her now revealed eyes twinkling with mirth. Luffy could tell he had amused the woman, his bold declaration entertaining her.  

Sabo let out a breath as he saw the woman's face clearly for the first time.  

Robin raised a brow pulling a hand up to softly touch her cheek, rubbing along the sharp edge. “Sorry, is something wrong?” Her tone held a barely concealed challenge.   

“Nico Robin, a pleasure to finally make your acquaintance.” Sabo stepped forward beside his brother, bowing as he removed his hat from his head a sign of respect. The revolutionary’s had been trying to find her for years, wanting her to join their ranks.  

“Is it? See I think the pleasures all mine, Mr chief of staff for the Revolutionary army, seems we both have a reputation that presides us.” Robin smirked stepping forward, her eyes flicking over to Luffy. "But you straw hat, I'm afraid I must admit you were not on my radar, a mistake on my part I fear."  

“That's fine, you will have lots of time to get to know me, if you join my crew!" Luffy smiled widely, as Robins brow raised in genuine shock. He knew the woman wasn't ready to join yet but so lonely was his archaeologist that Luffy would ensure she knew she was wanted, that he would have her when she was ready, and she wouldn't have to bribe her way on board. 

Regaining her composure Robin blinked at the boy in front of her. "Let me get this right, you know enough to realize what I'm here for, but you think I'd abandon everything to join up with a crew of rookies." Robin moved to lean against the lavish wooden frame that had been built for the luxury seating on top the tortoise her fingers tapping against the wood. "You couldn't pay the cost of having me on board." 

Luffy smiled softly at his friend, genuine in the promise he was about to make. “Croco guy won’t protect you forever, but when you need help come to us. We will help you, no matter the cost!” Luffy’s eyes were determined aflame with his affection for his Archaeologist. 

“Cute kid, you think you can offer more protection then a warlord of the sea? I’ll take my chances, but for your kind offer I make one in return... A log pose set directly to Alabasta, you’d be foolish to do so but if you insist on helping the princess it will give you a safe passage.” Robin held out the item which Luffy shook his head declining with a grin.  

“Thanks, but we have some friends we need to find on the way.”  Luffy’s grin grew at the thought of Chopper so close to coming home.  

“Well, if your certain, don’t say I didn’t try.” Robin turned back to the horizon raising her weapon at the ship sailing away from Whiskey Peak, obviously a fake but the effort deserved a reward. Pulling the trigger Robin smiled a sad smile as she lowered her weapon. “Seems your crew managed to protect the princess from my agents. Good luck straw hat Luffy, I look forward to our next meeting.”  

Luffy smiled a sad smile as the woman obviously dismissed them. “Next time I’ll show you I can protect you Robin, you could have a home.”  

Robin hummed as she walked past the duo seating herself on the lavish velvet seat, a strange hope blossoming inside that she stamped out, she knew better.  

Luffy watched her sadly as she ignored them once more, accepting the dismissal Luffy grabbed his brother taking his leave and landing them both safe back on the dock. 

“Well, that was certainly interesting, she lives up to her reputation..." Sabo trailed off watching as the creature took its leave heading back out to sea.  

“She’s going to make a great crew member!” Luffy declared grinning wildly, yelling a see you soon to the retreating figure.  

Sabo's eyes bugged out of his head at his brothers determined declaration , before he laughed fondly, that was his brother, hard headed in his pursuit of what he saw as his.

Zoro had just finished taking care of the two Baroque agents that had arrived to capture the Princess Vivi, grumbling bitterly under his breath at his Captain, who could have given him a heads up. It was obvious that Luffy had been familiar of the Princess having seen through her act instantly. Of course, the rubber brained idiot was nowhere to be found, both Sanji and Usopp were still passed out where they had fallen but the Captain was gone.  

He could hear Nami trying to barter with the obviously distressed princess, desperately bargaining for gold. He grabbed the remaining two members of the crew in his arms, best not to stick around in the town where they had been hunted and attacked, no matter how weak the agents he had fought had been Baroque Works were not known for mercy and staying here would be asking for trouble, besides he had a feeling the princess was joining them no matter the outcome of Nami’s negotiation. His thought was soon confirmed by Luffy's loud arrival.

"Nice Zoro, looks like you took care of things here!" Luffy yelled out waving his arms around like a fool as he approached. "Now we just need to get the Princess home then we can fight croco guy!" 

"WHAT." Vivi cried as she looked to the boy. "How do you know about Crocodile?" She asked voice desperate.

"Oh, was that supposed to be a secret?" Luffy asked coming up to the group. 

"Crocodile!" Nami went blue in fear. 

Luffy laughed joyfully holding his stomach. "Yup, this is going to be fun!" 

"Who's the blond?" Zoro asked coming up on the group. 

"My brother Sabo!" Luffy grinned throwing his rubber arms around the boy who leaned in to his touch. 

"Nice to meet you, thank you for taking care of my brother, I know it's not always easy." Sabo laughed softly his eyes flicking over each of the garthered group before darkening when they fell on the blue haired Princess.

"Princess Nefertari Vivi." Sabo's voice was suddenly cold as he regarded the royal. "The lost princess of Alabasta, the woman who abandoned her country in it's darkest hour." 

Vivi's eyes widened before they narrowed in anger. "Abandoned?" She snapped stepping into Sabo's space challenging. "I did what I had to do to protect my country, and now I will return and save my people!" 

"Hero complex, huh?" Sabo casually leaned back his cold eyes regarding the royal in front of him. 

"Sabo, Vivi is a friend, we are bringing her home and I'm going to fight Croco-guy!"  Luffy grabbed his brothers shoulder forcing him to meet his eyes. 

The two brothers faced each other a silent transaction taking place between them, until Sabo sighed giving in. "Fine Luf, but I'm coming with you, I don't trust this Princess and I want to make sure your okay." 

Luffy grinned happy he would have his brother back with him for a while, he turned to his crew announcing it was time to set sail, frowning slightly when Vivi stormed passed him with a huff going to shut herself in the woman's quarters. Zoro placed the still sleeping crew mates down, patting his captain comforting on the shoulder as Sabo tethered his boat to merry and they set off on a new adventure. 

It was quiet on board the Sunny, docked on the open sea they had settled down for the night.

The war had started around them, the government hunting allies burning countries to the ground. Alabasta had been one of the first to go, Vivi forced to go on the run for her life. It had been months with no news, the only sign of life the mark of friendship on the news coo months ago, but things had changed.

The press had become one-sided, each article another Government propaganda piece, a call to arms against pirates with the Strawhats as enemy number one, something had gone wrong and all Luffy could do was hope his Princess was okay.

"Stop thinking about things you can't control." Laws voice was firm as his hand held Luffy's jaw, forcing the boy to look into his eyes. 

Luffy bit his lip anxious. "I'm worried, people are getting hurt, for me." 

Law shook his head eyes firm. "People are getting hurt because the world government are pieces of shit that think they can do what ever they want with no repercussions. They are wrong you know why?" 

Luffy shook his head as much as he could while still held in Laws iron grip. 

"Because you Luffy are a force of nature, unstoppable. You are vengeance and hope, the person who will be king. The government can't hold you back, no one can. I'm just lucky that I get to be here to watch you fly." Law smiled as Luffy's eyes watered. 

"Thank you Traffy." Luffy leaned into the man his arm coming round to wrap around him fingers tracing the tattoos on his knuckles. 

"Anytime Luffy, if you ever forget what you are just come to me I will remind you." Law pulled the boy in planting a soft kiss on his fluffy hair. 

"You'll be with us right?" Luffy asked wide eyes blinking up into Laws. 

"I'm right behind you Luffy, every step of the way." Law promised, a hand softly combing through his hair as he coaxed his partner to sleep. 

"You know I haven't seen him sleep in days, not since the news of what happened back in Dawn." Nami's voice was soft as she handed the tattooed boy a cup of coffee.

"You should have called sooner." Law muttered his eyes ghosting over his partners thin frame. 

"He didn't want us to disturb you... he's so good at looking out for others, I think he forgets he deserves to be looked after." Nami sat down, smiling sadly at her captain. "He's afraid for everyone all the time, but we can't stop the war now it's begun, we can only see it through." 

"We'll win." Law met Nami's eyes a determined hope blooming inside. "I once thought that life was a hopeless black hole, that I was on borrowed time, but then he came along. He showed me how to live and taught me what hope was. I believe in him more then anything else, he will be King and the government can burn for its sins." He trailed a hand down Luffy's cheek smiling as he automatically nuzzled closer to the touch. "I believe in him."

Nami smiled softly as she watched her Captain and Law, glad they had found each other through the darkest of times. Her thoughts turned to their missing princess, she hoped where ever Vivi was she was safe and still believed in their Captain. 

Vivi smiled from her rooms, even here in the clouds trapped in Imu's palace she had faith, her captain would come for her.  

Chapter Text

Luffy watched Nami closely as they set sail from Little Garden.

The time on the island had been a trial for the rubber captain, he hadn't wanted to change events too much, after all this had been an important event for Usopp. The sniper saving the day and protecting his crew, as well as finding idols in the giants Broggy and Dorry. He had held his temper in check as his crews lives were put in danger almost thankful for the mysterious paints of Miss Goldenweek, helping keep his emotions in control. Thankfully things had worked out in the end, Usopp's plan had freed their friends and Zoro still had not been successful in chopping his legs off even with the extra time he had devoted to training. Luffy was glad he had not told the swordsman of this particular tale, knowing Zoro he might have seen it as a failer and tried harder to succeed in this lifetime. 

Luffy had to remind himself it was for the best that things had played out as they did, luckily having Sabo at his side hadn't changed the line up to much. His brother had been kept from his side by the welcome presence of a Princess that annoyed him purely for her birth right. It struck Luffy as strange that in both lifetimes he had been embroiled in a war with this particular royal. While Sabo come to Luffys side he found that he brother to more jaded more prone to anger at the injusts in this world. As much as he loved his brother he wouldn't let his persomal biases put a dampener on his relationship with his Princess. 

As they sailed away from the island, bravely sailing onwards through the island sized goldfish Luffy kept an eye on his Navigator. Nami was laughing with Vivi on the deck of the ship, her trusted Logpose in hand as they discussed the weather patterns in the grand line. Her cheeks were flushed from the wind, her hair flowing around her as they moved onwards, no sign of the sickness that would soon put her at risk. 

He could see Sabo sulking from a distance, his top hat pulled sharp over his narrowed eyes, Luffy sighed at his brother's petulant grudge, it had certainly led to some tension on board, the revolutionary constantly trying to undermine the Princess, and her plight, commenting on how the world needed to be shaken up and the powers that be should fall, and Alabasta was just one of many. Vivi had taken it in stride, glaring at the boy but withholding her sharp tongue. She seemed satisfied that the Captain had her back. He would constantly reaffirm how Vivi was a good person, swearing he would stand beside her to take down the croco guy. The chef would also come to her defence but Vivi was pretty sure that had more to do with her gender then her actual cause. Strangely her biggest supporter had become the red-headed navigator who spent most of her time with the Princess ensuring she was not left alone with the revolutionary, sarcastically outwitting his every comment. As they laughed on deck Vivi couldn't help but feel the connections to these pirates grow deeper, she had never felt so free, even in the face of the upcoming war Vivi could find joy on these sea's salt water in her face and the Straw hats at her back. 

Luffy stood confused as he watched Nami and Vivi laugh and joke, surely she should be showing signs of her illness by now? Of course he didn't want his Nami in pain, but he needed Chopper and with out Nami's necessity for medical care how could he convince the crew to deviate from their heading.  

Softly biting his lips the captain looked around seeing his first mate up on the upper deck, his legs bandaged from where he had attempted to free himself from the wax trap. He felt guilty at allowing the man to come to injury but knew their was no way to stop Zoro from one of his plans once he had decided, it was something he had learned a long time ago, an affliction he also suffered from, something they could only learn to grow out of through experience. 

As he observed his crew Sanji approached the girls with treats in hand. This was it, the moment Nami’s illness had officially made itself known, but Luffy watched on in concern as the girls smiled at each other joyful as they tucked into the snacks the chef had lovingly prepared.  

Luffy tasted the metallic twang of blood as he worried his lip, had it gone wrong? Just as Luffy’s worry grew he heard a crash. Looking around to the source he saw his swordsman laying prone on the wooden floor of the ship. No. Luffy thought, not Zoro, this was wrong.   

Stretching his arms Luffy was at his first mates' side in an instant, his hand softly pressing against Zoro’s scorching face as the man hissed in pain, delirium setting in as he fell from consciousness.  

“Nami!” Luffy, haki flowing as he screamed, voice desperate and panicked as he watched his swordsman skin turn white as a sheet beneath his touch. He gently cradled the burning man in his arms as he softly launched himself to the lower deck,  careful not to jostle the man as he carried him to the Captain's quarters laying him softly on the bed. 

“Oh god Zoro.” Nami cried rushing to the Captains side her hands already checking over the swordsman looking for signs of what could be wrong. "He's temperature is too high, we need ice..." 

As she checked over the man she could hear Vivi theorising in the background with Sabo, everyone having come running at the Captains call, both guests had silently put their differences aside to assist the crew in their distress, Sabo instantly going to get ice to decrease the rocketing temperature, as Vivi quietly explained how the smallest cold on the Grandline could lead to death, at this revelation the Navigator snapped her tentative hold on her emotions, snapping, "I mean its Zoro, he wouldn't just roll over and die, right?"

“Come on Zoro, you stupid swordsman your not going to be defeated by a stupid cold right? Right?” Nami’s voice grew desperate as she smacked against Zoro’s chest in her hysteria, her tentative medical knowledge was far outmatched in this situation. 

“Yeah Zoro, you're a tough warrior a little bug is nothing to you!” Usopp cheered trying to rouse the swordsman, his hand lightly slapping against Zoro's limp wrist.  

Sanji watched on silently, he could see the crew cracking at the sight of their ever strong first mate unconscious, his pallor like death. He watched as Nami and Usopp resorted to violence in their desperation to rouse the man to no avail, but more concerningly was the Captain’s frame, he was too still, too eery as if he had stopped in time. He had a flash of the boy in the aftermath of Arlong Park, and a shiver worked its way through his spine, he had a dark feeling that if Zoro left them now the Captain would be gone with him. He had seen how close Luffy and Zoro had become and he didn’t want to see what the straw-hat boy would become without his Swordsman to hold him down, he couldn’t let that happen. He wouldn’t allow this crew to fall apart, not over the stupid Mosshead.  

“Nami, we need a doctor!” Sanji stepped forward his hands gently touching the redheads shoulder bringing her eyes to his, calming her with a stern look, his usual act gone as he stood firm acting as the support they all needed. He smiled softly as the Navigator nodded in determination taking her leave from the small cabin as she prepared to find the closest island. “Ussop, we need to clean his wound’s and actually stitch them up, I doubt the idiot gave himself any kind of first aid. Whatever this is he cannot afford to be weakened by blood loss.” He saw the boy nod and leave in search of supplies. He took the ice from Luffy's brother as he returned, placing the pack to the back of Zoro's neck. “Vivi my sweet, I need the room, theorising isn’t going to help anyone. You too Tophat, I want you both to help Nami, get me at any sign of an island, got it?” Samji waited for the room to empty before he brought himself in front of his captains still prone form.  

“Luffy?” Sanji tapped the side of the rubber boy's cheek softly, waiting patiently till Luffy’s eyes flicked over to meet his own, the first movement the rubber boy had given since they had brought the swordsman to the Captain’s chambers. “You staying?”  

Luffy nodded once robotically before he finally found the will to move. He gently settled himself down beside Zoro curling around his body like a shield. It couldn't be comfortable being that close to the heat of Zoro's skin, Sanji thought as he watched the boy stare down at his swordsman, his eyes unblinking like he thought the man would fade if he closed his eyes. 

It seemed like an eternity before Usopp returned to the room with a bucket of gently warmed salted water and a needle with thread. Sanji took the supplies with steady hands before softly undoing the bandages the Mosshead had haphazardly applied earlier that day.  

Beneath he could see the white of bone sticking out from a mar of wounds, the man hadn’t lied that he had been able to get roughly 50% of the way through before the wax had thankfully stopped the endeavour.  

With gentle hands Sanji tended to the wound concerned by how purple the skin around it looked. His heart skipped a beat as he noted how the swordsman was as he worked, not flinching under his firm hand. He was used to the man always fighting, it felt unnatural to see him still, even in sleep Zoro would twitch with every snore, it had always made Sanji smile softly when he had the opportunity to watch. It was almost as unnatural as the rubber captain who laid beside him brown eyes unblinkingly watching Sanji’s every move.  

The chef didn’t realise his eyes had started to water as he worked, a deep pain Sanji refused to register as he set about patching up the swordsman.  

“He’ll be okay Sanji.” Luffy’s voice was cracked with emotion as the chefs eyes flicked over to him a tear falling down his face as he blinked. “He’s Zoro, he is strong.” Luffy smiled a watery smile, one that was filled with doubt and pain.  

“Of course he will Captain, he’s a bull-headed prat, nothing will stop him.” Sanji coughed clearing his throat of emotion as he finished his work.  

“There, all patched up.” Sanji smiled softly at the swordsman, unthinkingly stroking a gentle hand across the mans head, before he rose from his seat.  

“You could stay?” Luffy gently prompted as Sanji turned to leave. “I’m sure Zoro would appreciate it.”  

“Hum, I’ll pass Captain he has you after all." Sanji soft smile barely hid the unacknowledged pain in his heart. "I should check on the others, knowing Nami we'll be making land anytime now.”  

Luffy watched sadly as Sanji left the room, he was intruding on the formation of his crews bonds, but he couldn’t help it. He had prepared to watch Nami be sick, reminding himself that he knew that she would survive it, but Zoro, the man was already weakened by his own actions on the wax plinth and now he was battling a fever. He remembered how Nami had attempted to soldier on, but Zoro had just been unconscious, did it mean he was sicker then Nami had been? Did they have the time to make it to Drum?  

Luffy shook his head softly shaking the trail of though from his mind, it would do no good. Nami was at the helm, she would make sure they got there as quickly as possible, he believed in his crew.  

“You just need to hang in their Zoro, the crew are on it and when you wake up we will have our doctor. You’ll love him, Chopper is the best doctor, well one of the best, Traffy’s pretty good too, but he cheats, Chopper doesn't! Chopper gives the best cuddles, even when you pretend you're too cool for it, I know you love him.” Luffy swept back a piece of Zoro’s sweaty hair strands. “You just wait, he’s a real monster, I’m not going to spoil it but Chopper is soo awesome.”  

As Luffy lay there his arms wrapped around his Swordsman his eyes felt heavy with the turmoil of the day as he reluctantly began to drift off.  

Luffy laughed as Chopper fussed over the swordsman who lay on the sandy beach of the island they had stopped on to rest. He could see Sanji sat nearby looking humbled and guilty as the small doctor worked his magic putting Zoro’s shoulder back into place where it should be.  

The Strawhats had landed on a uninhabited paradise Island at the end of the Grandline. Tired from weeks of journeying through a unmapped sea had left them tired and in need of a well earned land break, luckily they had been joined on the last leg by the Heart Pirates who had also settled down for a relaxing break from the seas. The beach was a buzz with quiet activities as each member of the two crews enjoyed their well earned break under the warm sun. 

Sanji and Zoro had off course decided that their idea of relaxation was a spar to burn off the energy they had whirring inside. 

“You would think they would stop needing to fight at every opportunity, given the other activities they’ve been up to recently.” Robin laughed as she sunbathed on a lounger they had set up to enjoy the evening sun, taking joy in the peace of being surrounded by those she counted as family.  

“Hah, those two, I’m pretty sure this is their foreplay.” Nami snorted enjoying an ice-cold drink that had been provided to the crew by their chef before he had taken up arms against his partner. 

“There’s nothing better then fighting, right Traffy?” Luffy grinned from his spot curled up with the tattooed doctor, leaned up against Bepo who was softly snoring in the shade of a tree.   

“Not everyone feels the need to act like a cave man Strawhat-ya... although those two do seem to share in your sentiments.” Law rolled his eyes at his partner, barely glancing away from the book in his hand. “I don’t envy Chopper-ya, he seems to have his hands full with the whole lot of you.”  

“Hey, we are not that bad, right Chopper?” Luffy called to the Reindeer.  

“Sure, Luffy. I’ve only had to bandage up 36 broken bones so far this month.” Chopper grinned bashfully a hoof behind his head.  

“That’s like 46 less then last month, super awesome” Franky grinned.  

“Only because we're nearing the end of the line, I mean civilisation has been few and far between, not even Luffy could start a war on a uninhabited island.” Nami smiled lovingly at her captain.  

"I don't know Nami, I wouldn't count that out of the equation." Robin chuckled fondly.

“It has been pretty quiet...” Luffy sulked. “Hey Traffy, fancy going back on our alliance, we could fight over the treasure again?” Luffy looked to the other doctor excitement glistening in his eyes.  

“Nope, Strawhat-ya, you’ll receive no fight from me, I don’t want to be king.” Law put his book down looking at his partner. “I’m perfectly happy with the way things are right now.”  

He couldn't see his crew making gagging motions on the edges of the beach out of their Captains eyeline, the strawhats certainly had melted Law's hard exterior.

Luffy smiled warmly, a gooey feeling filling his heart. “I guess somethings are better than fighting.” Planting a wet kiss on his partners head before he paused looking to Nami. “Hey, do you think we could track down Kidd, I’m sure he’d be up for a fight!”  

“No, Luffy.” Nami sighed., rolling her eyes at her Captain. “We are the only crew in these waters that’s kind of the point, you know to be the first.”  

“But I’m bored!” Luffy whined as Law rolled his eyes.

“You’re close now Luffy, once you claim the one piece we can fight anyone you want, the Heart pirates will be at your side.” Law smiled softly, a hand running through Luffy’s wild hair.  

“He’s right Captain.” Zoro grunting as his shoulder was reset, before standing to stretch it out nodding thankfully at the doctor. “One more island than we take on the world.”  

Sanji looked at Chopper expectantly waiting for the doctor to reluctantly nod before he could throw himself back at the green haired swordsman resuming the fight that had been keeping them preoccupied before the reindeer had demanded he be allowed to reset Zoro's injury.

Night fell as the Going Merry sailed blindly forward desperately seeking an Island where they may find a doctor. Nami guiltily navigated her way through the night hoping to find any sign of land, she knew she should let the Princess know about her home. That the war that had officially started and tensions that had cracked into an uprising, but as she thought of her Captain and first mate below she couldn’t risk the Princess becoming an obstruction to them seeking a cure. 

Sabo kept watch over the Navigator as she sailed through the night. His brother had always been a sensitive soul, but to watch him fall apart at the sight of his Swordsman’s illness, it sent shards of worry through Sabo’s soul. He wondered if he had done this, had it been his disappearance from his brother's life. Luffy had confided in him that he and Ace had thought he was dead, that it had hurt them to think Sabo was gone. Sabo had always been the thread that held the brother's together soothing out Ace’s sharp edges and Luffy’s constant need for affection. He wondered how they had grown without him, how Ace would have coped with the guilt of another person he saw as family leaving him.  

It didn’t help Sabo’s worry that Luffy flinched at every mention of their older brother, that the dark look behind his eyes would grow ever deeper, threatening to drown Sabo in the abyss. 

“Everything okay out here?” His brothers blond chef asked coming out from the mess.  

“Fine Sanji, that for Luffy and Zoro?” Nami queried looking to the bowls of soup the chef held in his hand. 

“Yup, stupid Captain didn’t even touch the meat platter I brought him earlier.” Sanji groaned, a hint of reluctant fondness in his tone. “Like that’ll help things.” 

“Luf, not eat, thats.. a new one” Sabo commented concerned.  

“It’s not the first time It's happened." Nami muttered turning her eyes from the sea.  

“Yeah, he rarely eats when one of the crew is hurt.” Sanji shrugged.  

“Hum, strange, the Luffy I knew would never turn down a meal.” Sabo muttered looking sadly to the hatch that hid his brother from the world.  

“It’s just one of Luffy’s weird quirks.” Nami muttered. “If everything is good and happy he’s like a endless black hole for food, but the moment somethings wrong its like he can’t eat at all. Luckily we are a tough crew so it’s never been a concern for long, but if we don’t find land soon....” Nami broke off biting her lip and returning her sight to the sea as if willing land to appear on the horizon.  

“I'm hoping soup may be a bit easier on the stomach, and if I can wake moss-head maybe we can get some nutrients in him, god knows he needs it." Sanji muttered heading to the hatch and opening it with a kick of his foot.  

Sabo watched the chef descend a sad smile on his face, his brother was not the same boy he knew, but at least he had a crew who cared.  

Sanji frowned as he made his way into the darkened chambers, he could see the two sleeping forms on the bed, but something was wrong. He watched as the Captain tensed his body writhing under the sheets, his body as covered in as mucn sweat as the sick swordsman beside him. He dashed forward bowls forgotten as they fell to the floor as Luffy began scratching at his chest, fingers desperately clawing to reopen scars that were no longer there.  

As his fingers touched his Captain he felt him jolt back into the world of the living.  

“Sanji...” Luffy's voice was desperate his eyes seeking out his face as his hand pulled him in close. “You're here, I made it, finally.”  

Sanji was confused as he was held close by the rubber boy, who rubbed his face into the chefs chest like a cat. 

“I did it!” Luffy grinned wildly his eyes sparkling in joy, as he leaned back slightly his chef still held stiffly in his arms. “Where’s Traffy” Luffy's wide eyes frantically looking around, before pausing on the prone form of Zoro beside him. 

“Hey, as much as I missed you two I didn’t mean to interrupt...” Luffy smiled cheekily, puffing his cheeks out childishly.

“What?” Sanji spluttered, confusion colouring his tone.

“Sorry, I’m not sure why I arrived here either. I thought I’d wake up with Traffy, I need to see him. He was bad.” 

“Luffy....” Zoro’s voice was weak strained from the energy he was expending. “You’re not there. Look at me... You are on the Merry. We are on the Grandline, with me, Sanji, Nami, Usopp and Vivi... your brother Sabo is here too” Zoro sat up with a pained grunt that had Luffy flinching, the swordsman scrunching his eyes against the wave of dizziness. “It’s okay Luffy, you are not there.”  

Luffy’s eyes flicked between Zoro and Sanji, who was watching the scene concerned. “Not ...there?” Luffy bit his lip, a heavy sadness settling on his face as he nodded accepting.  

“It’s okay Luffy, it's all okay." Zoro put his arms around his Captain and the Chef with some effort, his sweaty furnace of a body too warm against Sanji’s skin.  

Sanji went dead still under his crewmates touch, confused and uncomfortable under the affection. He was unsure how long he laid their trapped in his Captain’s hold until he felt the boys grip go lack with sleep. 

He shuffled tentatively testing the amount of space he had to wiggle free.  

“Stop fidgeting Chef, you wake him we will be back to square one.” Zoro's voice was tired and weak. “Beside you’re moving is making me feel sick.” 

“I can’t stay here, I’m not apart of this weird thing you’ve got going on...” Sanji muttered quietly, irritation colouring his tone.  

“Weird thing?” Zoro raised a brow. “If you think helping the Captain through nightmares is weird then you're not the person, he thinks you are.”  

Sanji felt guilty, here Zoro was a fever that was slowly killing him, giving the last of his energy to help his Captain, to support his crew and what was he doing? Making things worse.  

“Look Sanji, I can't be what he needs right now, please just stay.” Zoro’s voice was quiet, desperate for the chef to listen.  

“Okay...” Sanji muttered softly, looking into the darkness as silence fell around them.  

Chapter Text

“All hands on deck!” A familiar sharp voice cut through the warm recesses of Sanji's mind.  

Quickly falling back to reality from the comfort of his dreams the chef found himself held in a way he had not known since his mother had died. Strong arms pulled him in close to a unnaturally warm chest that radiated below his head, while rubbery limbs wrapped around them both securely, guarding them as they slept.  

Cracking his eyes open to the bright light filtering in from the open trap door Sanji’s gaze landed on their smuggly grinning Navigator who had rudely awoken him from slumber a knowing look gleaming in her eyes. Embarrassment and guilt flooded his heart as he tried to free himself from his crews embrace.  

Nami laughed warmly as she watched the chef squirm, she had been worried when the normally prompt chef hadn’t appeared to make breakfast that morning, but her worries were availed at the sight before her. She had always valued her sharp eye and Sanji hadn't been as subtle as he thought with his jealous looks, luckily the navigator was sure there was nothing but a familial bond between the Captain and his first mate, hopefully this would be the first step in her friends realisation of his own feelings.    

“Sanji stop moving...” A youthful pouting voice greeted them as a brown eye cracked open and a rubbery arm tried to stop the chefs flailing limbs.  

“Let go of me you rubber creep.” Sanji grunted to the captain who rolled his eyes as he reluctantly unravelled his arms from around the man who shot out of bed at the first opportunity, Zoro's arms falling limply where they had once held the chef close.  

Nami giggled softly trying unsuccessfully to cover it up in her hand, as she watched Sanji hurriedly straighten out his suit. The navigator shot the chef a knowing look which he avoided embarrassed, his eyes looking anywhere but at the rooms other occupants.  “If we are all presentable, we have spotted land on the horizon, thought it may be of interest to you fools.” Nami stuck her tongue out teasingly, her face falling sharply as her eyes fell on the still prone swordsman.  

“Already!” Luffy huffed suddenly alert as he threw himself from the bed, confused that they hadn't run into Wapol on the way, had they gone the wrong way? “No issues?”  

“Just some so called ‘pirates’, pathetic really, your brother took care of them in no time at all.” Nami shrugged as Luffy sighed in relief. “There’s a blizzard outside so make sure you wrap up warm, kay, get Zoro all wrapped up too he doesn’t need a cold on top all this.” Nami fixed the two boys with stern looks, waiving a concerned hand over their first mate.  

“Of course Nami, my sweet angel, do you need anything before we dock, food, my undying love?” Sanji flustered finally looking up from the floor, desperate to erase the sight of him curled up in the bed from the navigator's brain.  

“Cute offer, but how about we make sure our first mate is all fixed up before we consider it, hum?” Nami patted Sanji’s cheeks making the blond chef swoon.  

It had been decided much to their chefs loud protests that Luffy and Sanji would take Zoro up the treacherous mountain to the doctor, they were of course the toughest members of the crew, the most likely to survive the steep climb up to the mountains peak. Nami had cheerfully manipulated the chef with a sly smile to agree to the plan even as he tried to complain, his embarrassment at the previous nights sleeping arrangements making him more pig headed than normal. 

“Hey Sanji.” Luffy muttered softly as they approached the edge of the mountain, he needed to be careful if he wanted his plan to work. “You should carry Zoro, he's taller than me and I'm afraid if I drag him to much I'll do more harm. I trust you to get him there safely.” Luffy turned his wide pleading eyes to meet the still evasive gaze of his chef. In the first timeline it had taken years of growth for Sanji to find comfort in his own skin, but thanks to Luffy's actions the previous night he had already pushed the man beyond his comfort zone. He could see how Sanji was withdrawing further from them his walls raising as his act took over. Only one person had been able to easily break through Sanji's defences and he was currently out of commission, so Luffy was determined to get through to his friend. 

Sanji dubiously raised a brow at the Captain, but as he looked at Zoro’s large frame drowning the boy as he lay slumped across his shoulder, his legs dangling down dragging on the snow he assessed the logic in the captains words. “Fine, but the moss head owes me one. If you ever tell anyone about this your dead meat you got it, I'll happily make Captain Stew.”  

Luffy grinned carefully holding the swordsman out to the chef who placed him gently on his own shoulders. Inside Luffy celebrated as Sanji's hand softly cradled Zoro's head ensuring it was softly cushioned against his thick hood, his smile widened as he watched Zoro unconsciously shift nuzzling closer to the chef's warmth his icy lips finding warmth against the chefs neck. The captain polietly averted his eyes when he saw the annoyed and frustrated expression on Sanji's face. Turning to face the perilous path ahead they began the steep climb, a nervous Luffy constantly chattering away much to Sanji’s frustration.  

The remaining group of Straw hats and Sabo settled down to wait for their friends to return curiously listening on as Dalton explained the events that had led to the country becoming Kingless and nameless. 

As they listened Nami noticed the smug smile that had spread across Luffy's brothers face as Vivi became more torn and concerned about the state of the country, they had all noted how the strange boy had been treating the blue haired princess but they had gritted their teeth leaving it up to the Captain to deal with, Luffy for his part had asked Sabo to keep quiet about his opinions and had expressed his love for the newest friend, but he still seemed incapable of fully dealing with the issue. 

Luffy was strange around Sabo. The Navigator had observed the Captains glances at the blond boy, the fear in his eyes as though the boy would disappear at a moments notice, his reluctance to spend time alone with him but the raw need to be around him at every opportunity. The way Zoro had firmly told Sanji to leave the boy alone when he had tried to pick a fight with the Revolutionary after a particular scathing remark about Vivi. Even Sabo himself seemed concerned about Luffy's actions quiet and contemplative after every interaction. Nami's musing was called short when Dalton finished his tale.    

“Your country has done itself proud, I wish more places would take a leaf out of this one’s book.” Sabo laid back in his seat, glancing at the undercover princess out of the corner of his eye. "After all a crown doesn't give power, no that belongs to the people who could take it away at any time, they just need to be brave enough, one voice that is all it takes for a revolution to start."

He watched almost guilty as his words hit Vivi, her body recoiling as if she had been hit as she bit her lip sharply, but still blazing eyes blinked up to Sabo's own.  

“You are right, a crown doesn't make a king.” Vivi muttered her voice shaky but strong in resolve, she met Sabo’s eyes head on determined. “This Wapol sounds like no true leader, a leader would do anything to protect their people, they would never abandon them in their time of need.”  

“Maybe some believe that, but royalty is only loyal to the world government and their cruel regime, they turn a blind eye to the atrocities those in charge commit, content to sit in there ivory towers.”  Sabo’s eyes were aflame as he looked into Vivi’s soul her strength wavering until she had to look away, turning to leave the building the cool air outside a balm against her raging heart. 

“You don’t need to be so cruel.” Nami’s voice cut through the tension as she hissed at her Captains brother, keeping her voice low ensuring her words would not hit Dalton’s ears. “You may think you know everything but you are being obtuse, you’re so caught up in your agenda you’ve not given Vivi a fair shot... you think a country at war is a good thing?” Nami hissed her hand forcing a news article to Sabo’s chest. “Innocent people are dying, and Vivi just wants to protect her people, does that make her a bad person?” Nami turned to follow the princess determined to comfort her friend.  

Usopp laughed nervously his hand coming up to his head awkwardly as he watched the revolutionary look to the paper Nami had left behind. “You know I’m just gonna wait outside...” Usopp turned to follow his friends leaving Sabo alone with Dalton, looking helplessly down at the paper advising how the civilians of Alabasta were suffering. 

Sanji was helpless as he flew through the air, Zoro held securely around his shoulders as he watched his captain get overcome by the snow. Bile came up his throat as his panic threatened to overwhelm him, he hadn't been able to do anything against the avalanche that had threatened to destroy them all, he had failed. 

Since the moment he had made the choice to be a pirate he had felt inferior to the rest of the crew. In the end he was still that starved, weak child. At the Baratie he had allowed himself to believe that person had died and someone stronger had rose from the ashes, but now compared to the world's greatest swordsman and a captain who had defeated Arlong singlehandedly, what could he bring to the table?  

His fears of being the weak link crashed around him as the snow had threatened to crush them all, desperation in his eyes as he looked to his Captain who had looked to him eyes alight before tossing them to safety, using his rubber limbs to clear them of the oncoming storm of snow. He waited with bated breath for the captain to join them his eagle eyes watching the sea of white below when he didn’t come.  

Gulping down his fear Sanji resolved there and then he would do what it took to ensure they all made it to the witch alive. His eyes narrowed as he hungrily devoured the white planes below, looking down over the cliff top for any sign of life, relief flooding his chest at finding a still outstretched hand poking out of the top of the now settled snow. Carefully he placed the swordsman on the cliff top, checking he was fully wrapped up against the storm before jumping down to rescue his Captain.  

As he reached his Captains side he gripped the outstretched hand, pulling desperately as the snow began to move, concerningly his Captain’s rubber limbs had frozen in place stopping his normal stretch but thankfully allowing the chef to pull him free of the icy tomb.  

After several minutes that felt like hours, Luffy broke free of the snow, his body tinged blue, frozen, breath shallow as he struggled to draw oxygen into his system. Sanji fell to his knee he had never seen his captain so weak. Desperately he pulled the boy in, shocked at how small the captain was in his grip, how skinny he was this close, the icy touch so different from the arms that had held him the previous night. Luffy was in this state for him. Had he not been there the Captain could have easily pulled himself from harm's way, carried Zoro to the Doctor, but he had sacrificed himself for Sanji, for a failure, a tear fell slowly down his face before he bit back the emotion, men don't cry he reminded himself.  

Sanji’s soul filled with an icy resolve, shedding his coat to cover his Captain giving him what warmth he could offer. Carefully he pulled his Captain over his back before he made his way back to the swordsman pulling one of the damned rabbits free of the snow on the way. In his determination Sanji didn’t notice a trail of steam following in his shadow or the way Luffy’s arms were slowly thawing coming back to their natural form.  

He looked to the cliff top he where he had left his first mate, belatedly surprised at how easy he found it to jump back to his side, as he lifted the swordsman up he smiled softly to himself as the usually gruff man sighed at the chef's touch. 

Looking up the sheer mountain Sanji began his climb his determination growing with each pull of his quickly tiring arms, his hand that he held to such a high regard, the tools Zeff had told him to protect above all else breaking as he pushed his fingers through stone to gain purchase, his blood flowing from open wounds as he drove onwards, he would not fail them, he would protect them both, over everything else.  

As he climbed he could hear the phantoms of voices, sounds of his crew from the recesses of his mind cheering him on, the soft tones of his mother telling him he could do anything, the sharp tone of his sister telling him to be free, he would prove his father wrong, he would be a pillar of strength one that would outlive his families expectations and would carve a life of freedom from a past of pain.  

Finally he reached the peak his tired legs giving out under him as his broken and bloodied hand shook, he dropped his precious cargo to the ground as he screamed out in raw victory, he had done it, his crew would be saved, and as he saw a woman stood in the distance he allowed his mind to fall into the sweet call of unconsciousness.  

“You know after all the effort I put in to keeping you alive, you’d think you valued your life a bit more.” A strangely familiar voice cut through the fog, as his brain connected the voice to a face he awoke desperate to find the owner.  

Luffy blinked looking around to find himself on the Thousand Sunny a thick fog surrounding the ship distorting the surroundings. Through the fog Luffy could see shadows dotted around the ship. Gingerly Luffy crawled to his feet his limbs heavy and stiff.  

“You know it would have been a poor end to your adventure if you died because of some rabbits.” A voice echoed around the ship, a laugh bouncing off the walls and floor increasing in volume. “After all my effort to help you, you just throw it away, here I thought you would finally be the one to succeed.” 

Luffy looked around frantically trying to find the source of the original voice, finally he spotted a glint of light through the fog. Stumbling forwards Luffy found himself transported to a beach, a pier made its way out to sea in front of him a shadowed figure silhouetted at the end. 

As Luffy made his way forward he could hear the laugh still echoing around the space growing louder as he approached.  

“Nika.” Luffy addressed as he approached the figure vibrating in the light, he could see the childlike figure bathing in the sun, reminding Luffy of himself at 10, but where his hair had been jet black the gods was white.   

“Ah, you spoiled my fun...” The figure turned his smile unnaturally wide, teeth sharp behind his grin, red eyes boring into Luffy. “You know I wondered if we would ever meet, you’ve been avoiding me, rude!”  

“You hurt people...” Luffy began as Nika smile stretched even further, hungry.  

“No I killed people.” Nika laughed joyously. “Did you not like my present?” The boy pouted.  

“I don’t hurt people.” Luffy’s face fell as his eyes fell to his hands, still feeling the blood of Nika's kills coating them.  

“Yes you do, you’ve hurt plenty of people, and they’ve hurt you.” Nika cocked his head to the side, his smile falling as fury took over the laugh disappearing entirely as his voice grew sharp, dangerous. “They killed your people, like they killed the others before you, like they killed me”  

Luffy’s eyes widened as he took in the figure of an angry god, his childlike frame distorted, almost demonic.  

“It doesn’t matter what you want, one day you will see, mine is the only path to a different future.” Nika’s grin returned the laugh booming back around them.  

“Don’t listen to him.” A stern voice echoed around making Nika startle in surprise as hope flooded Luffy’s system.  

“Traffy?” Luffy called out desperately his head whipping around searching for the source of the voice.  

“I’m here Luffy-ya.” Luffy was surprised to feel warm arms wrap around him. “You don’t need to listen to him, okay, I’m here now.”  

As Luffy leaned into his partners touch the world around them faded Nika disappearing back into oblivion.  

“Traffy...” Luffy’s voice was small and broken as he leaned into his partners hold.  

“I know I’m sorry Luffy-ya, you need to be strong, okay?” Law’s hand came up to softly turn Luffy’s head their eyes meeting as the older man implored his partner to listen. “You do not need vengeance Luffy, no matter what they say, you are better than that, better than them, better then me.”  Law smiled sadly lost in the memory of how angry he had been in his own hunt for vengeance against Doflamingo. 

“But you're the best, Traffy.” Luffy said his eyes wide with affection.  

“We both know that’s a lie.” Law brought their faces together noses touching gently. “I’m selfish Lu, if I had it my way you’d stay here with me forever.” Law closed his eyes allowing a single tear to trail its way down his face. “But you, you are everything pure and good about this world, and you will find a way to a better future without losing yourself.” 

“How can you be so sure?” Luffy asked his voice tender with raw emotion.  

“Because you met me at my worst and found my best.” Law laughed opening his eyes looking at his partner with love. “Because you Monkey D Luffy are a pure person who truly wants the world to be free.”  

“I miss you.” Luffy cried out his lip shaking as his rivers flooded from his eyes.  

“I never left you Lu, I’m sorry you thought I did but I’m here and I will always be here.” Law pulled Luffy around cradling him closely in his arms, holding the boy as he fell apart. “If you ever need me Luffy just close your eyes, I promise I will be here forever and always.”  

“You left me.” Luffy cried looking back to meet his partners eyes.  

“No.” Laws eyes were aflame as he spoke. “I couldn’t survive losing you, so I did what was needed to save us both. I knew you would find a way to save us all... now prove me right, your crew need you, Lu.” Law leant forwards his lips ghosting over Luffy’s own chastely. “Now it's time for you to go, remember I believe in you.”  

As Luffy fell back to reality the world felt too real, he wanted to crawl back to his dream, back to Laws arms holding him securely, but it wasn't real, was it? It couldn't be, Traffy was dead, he had left him behind, just like everyone else.  

Time slowed to a stop as Law watched the horror unfold before him. 

A scream ripped through the air as the field ran red.

Not him.

Never him.

No.

He wouldn't allow it. 

Law's power thrummed in the air around him, thick and stifling.

It had only taken a moment for all to be lost, but he wouldn't let this stand. 

The Ope Ope No Mi was sought after for a reason. 

One that came at too high of a cost, but, Law was finally ready to pay it. 

It hadn't even been a real choice as the last hope of humanity fell to the lava fist of a warped justice. 

With out even processing the events Law was moving, ripping Akainu's heart from his chest before squeezing it tightly in an iron grip allowing it to fall unbeating to the cold dirty ground. 

He was at his mates side even before Luffy's body could hit the floor, no not a body, never a body. 

"T..tra..traff..." Luffy's voice spluttered blood flowing from his mouth. 

"Shhhh, its okay Lu." Law comforted tears flowing from his eyes as he held his partner close, his flowing blood coating the doctor. "Its going to be okay, just hang on." 

Luffy smiled softly his eyes accepting, he had died for his cause and now he could join his crew he was just glad his Traffy was with him at the end. His eyes went glossy, unseeing. 

He couldn't see the blue room that surrounded him, couldn't feel as his desperate partner fought against time to save his heart. 

The only thing he would know was he would awaken to a cold world, one that had no light left. 

Chapter Text

Vivi watched horror growing as Sabo smashed his way through Wapols men, hands coated in the soldiers blood as they gripped tight around his trusted pipe, he easily bashed his way through man and woman alike as he carved a path for Nami and Usopp to recover Dalton from the thick snow that had buried him alive.  

The princess watched from the sidelines with the villagers, listening as crowd turned from joyous cheers when the boy had stepped forward to help their hero, to silent fear as the onslaught continued. Murmurs and tears broke out amongst the crowd as they watched the snow turn red under the broken soldiers. 

She listened as the kings soldiers turned into pleading victims, silent pleas falling on death ears... she had heard enough.  

It was too much.  

Gathering her strength Vivi stepped forward planting herself between the soldiers and the blond assassin that had left them within an inch of life.  

“Enough.” She raised her arms at her sides blocking the revolutionary from continuing his onslaught her voice filled with a steal confidence that had the blond raising a unimpressed brow.  

“Well, Princess.” The boy spat venom colouring his voice as his eyes narrowed, his anger simmering over his sanity. “Seems you can’t hide your true colours for long.” 

“I can't hide my true colours? Look at them.” Vivi demanded lowering her arms to her side, eyes flaring with passion as she angled her body so the blond could see the results of his attack. “Does this feel like a reasonable punishment? Is this who you are a brute who brings vengeance?”  Vivi’s hands balled up fury flowing through her at the boys cruelty. “They are just men, stupid humans following the orders of a corrupt king. Tell me what have they  done to deserve this? Is this your justice?”  

Sabo blinked his rage abating slightly as guilt grew like bile in his stomach, he looks at the men, broken and bruised on the floor, brutalised by his own hand. What had he become?  

His rage fled as he looked around leaving only his shame behind. He observed as a woman edged forward, her eyes watching him for a reaction as she made her way towards the fallen soldiers, finally falling at the feet of one of the men, her cracked voice calling a name as shaking hands gently stroked at the broken flesh of his face. Slowly Sabo blinked carefully placing his weapon back in its holder on his back, he saw the crowd let out a relieved breath at the sight. He watched Nami, Usopp and a group of villagers emerge with Daltons unconscious form, the two pirates' eyes looking around nervously at the scene carefully looking out for anyone who may look for recompense.  Instantly they were swarmed by the twenty doctors who got to work saving the lives of the injured and the frozen Dalton.  

Silently Sabo turned his back on the scene making his way to Dalton's hut, desperate for an escape from the scrutiny fear filled eyes that turned his way, and the piercing gaze of the Princess that cut him to the core.  

Vivi kept her post as she watched him leave, grateful she had managed to break through to him, that he had taken pause. Turning gently, she came to a stop in front of the woman still gently holding on to her soldier, the princess bowed deeply.

“I apologise for the actions of my friend, please forgive us.”  

The woman turned tearful eyes to the princess.  

“Haven’t you pirates done enough? My husband only did what he needed to, the king was the only one with reliable access to medical care, do you think he wanted to be here?” She spat at the princess’ feet. “Follow your ‘friend’ we do not need your pity; this is our lives.” 

Vivi rose her lip wobbling as her strength faded, her feet felt heavy as she followed the revolutionary into the hut leaving the villagers to tend to the wounded, Nami and Usopp following silently behind heads lowered. 

As she entered the hut, she saw the revolutionary glance up pain and fear in his eyes, that deepened as he laid his sight on the tears flowing silently from Vivi’s eyes. Guilty he broke eye contact, glancing down to his bloodstained hands, his icy heart cracking in pain.  For the first time since he had first joined the Revolutionaries he was forced to question his choices, he had always held on to his cause, looking for a better future, but how many futures had he brought to an end in his plight. 

As Luffy fell back to reality the world felt too real, too raw. He wanted to crawl back to his unconscious mind, back to Laws arms holding him securely, but it was not real, was it? It couldn't be, his Traffy was dead, had left him behind to live in a black world.  

A startled noise brought him back to his senses, glancing around the room Luffy's eyes fell on a familiar fluffy creature that stood frozen on the edge of the room. The reindeer was stood still, holding his breath as if it would stop the rubber boy from spotting him.  

A small smile fell on his face as he observed his friend, who began shaking the longer he had to hold his position. Smile falling into a large grin Luffy raised a hand to touch at his fresh bandages, fingers touching over a familiar style of wrapping that the Captain had felt more times then he could count, much to the doctors distress.  

“Wow...” Luffy called out exaggeratedly, practically shouting as he exclaimed. “These are such good bandages a very good doctor must have done these.”  

“Aww, you don’t need to compliment me you big dummy, I’m not falling for that you silly.” The reindeer muttered as he swayed happily. His statue illusion completely broken.  

 “Awesome, a talking Reindeer, you need to join my crew we need a fluffy one!” Luffy exclaimed sitting up quickly to stare over at Chopper who had completely froze back up in shock, flabbergasted that the boy had found his hiding place, he had thought his disguise was fool proof.

“Wait...what!?!” Chopped exclaimed once his brain finally resumed functioning.  

“You. Need. To. Join. My. Crew!” Luffy spoke clearly and loudly laughing as Chopper began to mutter about the stranger who hadn’t run away in fear and had instead called him awesome and offered a place on his crew.  

“Hey stupid captain you’re awake.” Sanji barged into the room bowl in hand, grinning widely to find his Captain back to reality. He had only woken up a short while ago, fear overtaking him at the sight of an empty room, concerned that he had failed in his mission. He had been set at ease by a brash doctor who exclaimed that he had saved the lives of his two companions, he had spent his time waiting for his crew to awaken making a soup that he was sure would help nurse them back to health under the watchful eye of the old witch.

“Yup, and I found us a doctor.” Luffy grinned his rubber hands snaking out to grab the bowl in the chef's hand.   

Sanji lightly batted at the hands, a poor pretence of annoyance at his Captain, his glow showing his glee that both of his crew mates were on the mend. The chef looked around to the other occupant of the room, surprised to find a reindeer that was once more trying to blend into the surroundings, he raised a brow before grinning hungrily at the creature. “A doctor? Looks more like food to me!”

“Nope Doctor is friend not food, look at his work.” Luffy pointed proudly to his bandages with one hand as the other shovelled soup into his mouth, his words making Chopper swoon once more.  

Sanji drew closer to his Captains bed poking at the bandages he raised a brow unconvinced, but used to his Captains strange whims. “Not bad, but he still looks like food to me.” 

“I’m not food, and I’m not going to be your doctor, there is still so much I have to learn, here.”  Chopper muttered shyly, a hoof rubbing at his hat as he watched the two pirates in front of him. 

“Well learn it with us!” Luffy declared determined. “I’ve decided you are our doctor, so now you have to join us.”  

“Honestly you should just give in, once he has an idea in his head there is no stopping him.” Sanji groaned, taking a perch at the end of the bed where the captain had excitedly perched on all fours, the remains of soup leaking across the covers. “It’s how I ended up here.”  

“Do you regret it?” Luffy asked looking at Sanji demeanour suddenly serious. The chef felt guilt as his Captains eyes darkened, a tell that the boy was slip into the dark place he would occasionally fall into. It reminded Sanji of the prior night and the desperation that Luffy had held him with. Carefully the chef leaned forward ruffling the Captains hair causing brown eyes to blink up at him helpless.

Sanji had a lot of time to consider his life on the climb here, his will driving him forward as he considered the pain of his past that had left him with unseen scars. He had thought about his crew and how broken they all were. Luffy who tried to cover up his scars with childish smiles and games, but could not run from the darkness inside. Nami who was learning to live freely after years of slavery to a cruel pirate. Usopp always thinking he needed to be something and someone else, easily lying in order to feel worthy. Finally Zoro, the man who was the most silent about his past, seemingly unaffected by everything around him, but then there had been his hand holding onto Sanji's begging him to stay. He realised that the Swordsman was just as broken as the rest, believing the only thing he had to offer was his strength. Some how they had found each other, all these broken and jagged pieces sliding together, making each other whole, like fate.  

“Not at all Captain.” Sanji assured with a roll of his eyes; finally sure this was exactly where he needed to be. At his Captains side, with Zoro, Nami, Vivi and Usopp, his crew. 

Luffy looked at his chef, deep eyes understanding as if they could read minds, he smiled softly nodding.

“See, you should join us.” Luffy announced turning his attention back to the reindeer, determined.

“No, I couldn’t.” Chopper backed himself into the wall nervously, his paw pulling at the top of his hat. “I’m no pirate, look at me I’m a monstrous reindeer, and Dr Kureha needs me here to help her with her work. She teaches me so much and makes sure I do not do anything wrong.”  Sanji frowned at the creatures words, understanding dawning, seeing what Luffy saw, this reindeer was definitely born to be a Strawhat. 

Luffy contemplated the young reindeer, his Chopper had grown so much before his life had been cruelly cut down. The doctor had long become comfortable in his own skin, willing to take risks and move forward from mistakes, but this young child felt unworthy, he was still cut up over the people who had turned their back on him, scarred by his part in his mentor's death, afraid to take chances. There was only one thing for it, he would have to prove to Chopper that this was where he needed to be.  

Zoro awoke under the terrifying glare of the Doctor who had saved his life, he had quickly sought out his swords desperate to get free of the prison of a bed the witch woman had forced him to remain within.  

Zoro screamed in frustration as the woman planted herself on his back, her legs crossed as her impossibly heavy weight held him down. Laughing manically as the swordsman struggled fruitlessly. Who was this witch? Her strength of will reminded him of the only other person that could put fear into him, the redheaded navigator of the crew. Honestly, he could see it now, Nami in a couple of hundred years being the exact same as this crazy doctor.  

Unfortunately for Zoro this was the exact position Sanji and Luffy found him in when they finally emerged.  

“Who knew the only thing needed to defeat the ‘World's Greatest Swordsman’ was an old hag.” Sanji announced laughing as they entered, Luffy very smartly remaining silent as the chef's side even as his eyes lit up in mirth, he remembered how strong the doctor who raised Chopper could be.  

“Who are you calling a hag!” The woman leaned over her arms stretching out to bring the boy in by his ear, dragging him to her glaring face.  

Sanji spluttered helplessly as Luffy laughed hard falling to the floor with mirth. 

“Whats so funny kid?” The woman demanded using her other hand to pull in the kid, undisturbed by how his skin stretched beneath her grip. “Did you think I didn’t hear how you’re trying to steal my reindeer without my permission?”  

Luffy pouted, still seated on the floor his ear outstretched in Kureha’s tight grip. “Sorry old doctor lady, but we need a doctor and only the best will do, and Chopper is the best!” He looked up determinedly his haki sparking in the air. “I won’t take no for an answer.”  

The doctor looked down upon the boy noting the power in the air, her eyes narrowed as she releases his ear while keeping hold of the other struggling pirate. “You won’t huh, fine, have him.” Kureha narrowed her eyes in challenge. “It won’t be so easy to convince him, he has a deep wound in his heart, one not even my medicine can fix.”  

Luffy grinned. “I accept the challenge.” The boys grin widened as he heard a commotion outside, time to win Chopper over.  

Chopper galloped along beside Sanji looking over his shoulder at every sound. He had failed his crew, allowing them to suffer, to die while he turned his back. On some level he understood that the odds had been against them, that no medicine could heal the wounds that had been inflicted on his found family, but that didn’t stop his pain.  

His eyes roamed around landing on the figure of the severely injured Nami in the chefs' hands. He had done what he could for his navigator and could only hope it would be enough.  

After what felt like hours of running, they found a clearing. The small islands temperamental weather patterns had meant that they had to battle through a snowstorm to find relative safety. Finally it was quiet, the sounds of war drowned by the whistling wind.  

Sanji gently placed Nami to the ground covering her with his jacket as he lit a smoke collapsing tiredly to the snowy floor.  

Chopper approached slowly unbothered by the cold that reminded him of home, a place now long gone along with the woman who raised him.  

“We can’t stay here long." Chopper advised changing form to check the females' wounds.  "Nami can’t regulate her temperature like this, we need to find somewhere warmer.” 

“You think I don’t know that?” Sanji snapped his temper flaring. “We can’t keep going, we need food, rest, it’s too much.” The chef rubbed harshly at his eyes his skin sunken and strained with a lack of sleep.  

Chopper nodded accepting, his animal biology had better prepared him for the strains of the past few days.  

“Okay, rest.” Chopper muttered placing his hat on Nami’s head covering her ears trying to offer what little heat he could. “I’ll get us some food.” The doctor nodded determined. “It will be okay, you will see Nami, when I get back you are going to wake up, and Sanji is going to cook the best meal you have ever seen.”  A gentle paw patted the navigators face as he prepared himself to leave.  

“Chopper, going alone is dangerous.” Sanji muttered, attempting to rise to his feet but stopped by a single paw on his shoulder and a determined look.  

“You said it yourself you need rest, and Nami needs protecting more than me. I can do this.” Chopper nodded determinedly. “Afterall I’m a strawhat, right?” He grinned at his friend before changing form back to his four-legged galloping away, using his enhanced senses to hunt down food.  

The chef remained there for hours determinedly awaiting the return of the youngest Straw-hat, his eagle eyes fixed on the white landscape around searching for the familiar blue nose but as the darkness of night fell to light and the snow stopped falling it never came.  

“I’m sorry.” Sabo’s voice was thick with emotions as he looked Vivi in the eyes, watching as the Princess startled at his words. “You were right I took it too far.”  

Vivi bit her lip nodding her head, tentatively accepting the boys words.  

“It’s funny, I was always the level headed one, but lately I feel like I can’t find myself.” Sabo looked out the window watching as the doctors efficiently gave aid to those who needed it. “When we were kids Ace was the rash one, Luffy- the troublemaker, but me... I kept us sane and safe, the mediator, but then I lost everything...” Vivi looked on tears silently flowing as she watched Sabo struggle to speak, processing the thoughts in his head. “For the longest time all I knew was that a fucking dragon set fire to a ship I was on, left me with this and no memories.” The boy gestured to the scar that slashed across his face. “But, then Luffy came back into my life, he brought the the past crashing with him. I could see how broken he was, but I didn't realise he wasn't the only one." Sabo broke off his hand picking at the cuticles on his fingers, he took a deep breath. "I was born a noble but I was never made for it...” Sabo trailed off wiping at the drying blood on his hands. “All I've ever known is war, but now I remember what its like to care, and it hurts. How can I be what my brother needs when all I know is pain?" 

Vivi stepped forward her soft hands coming up to hold calloused bloodied ones. “You were doing what you thought was right, and you were not entirely wrong, the world is broken, people like Wapol do not deserve the power they have, but war is not the only solution, all it does is bring more pain and death.” Vivi put her hand on Sabo’s face ensuring he met her eyes that implored him to listen to understand. “Look at Dalton, what he has done here, a true hero correcting his past mistakes and empowering the people to be better, a just leader. That's the person I want to be, to help my people. To truly liberate people you have to lift them up, not cut them down”  

“You’re a good person Vivi.” Sabo nodded his eyes soft. “I judged you unfairly, and if you’d accept it, I promise my loyalty to your mission, to help you save your country.” 

Vivi smiled softly her tears turning to happy ones as she nodded happily leaning into hug the blond who accepted her hold. 

“Okay, okay this is nice and all, but is anyone else concerned that the mad king is currently making his way up the mountain where Luffy, Sanji and Zoro are.”  Usopp worried

Nami laughed her eyes watering slightly at the sweet sight in front of her. “You said it yourself Usopp, if those three are there then Wapol will be done for in no time, we should prepare to set sail, I’m not sure the townspeople are going to be as welcoming after all of this.”  

Sabo bit his lip guilty before being waved off by Nami.  

“Don’t beat yourself up too much, honestly Zoro probably would of beat them up for something stupid if he was here, don’t sweat it.” Nami laughed.  

Luffy smiled softly at the wonder on Chopper's face as they set sail. He had his doctor back could see the childlike wonder through his eyes as he watched the blossom raining down from the sky. He glanced to the left seeing Vivi and Sabo sat side by side smiling up at the sky comradery simmering strongly between them. Luffy was glad they seemed to have found acceptance between them, the start of what could grow into a strong bond between the princess and the revolutionary.  

He watched as Sanji approached Zoro wrapping a thick blanket around the swordsman who was still suffering a fever, he watched the green haired man grumble even as he tightly gripped the blanket around his shoulders. He met Nami’s eyes a knowing glint behind them as she grinned at her Captain, subtly nodding towards the two men who seemed to have grown closer over the course of the adventure. Luffy grinned back, laughing freely in joy basking in the feeling of his family as they sailed out of Drum and onwards towards Alabasta.

Chapter Text

“Shanks-San!” Luffy grinned toothily into the Den Den his happiness bursting out of him causing the Den-Den on Shank's side to almost glow.

“Hey kiddo, how you doing?” Shanks barking laugh escaped him, his recent panic and gloom chased away by his sons joy.

He was glad to hear the lightness in his boy's tone, something he had longed to hear over the years, a glow that could only come from Luffy’s chosen Nakama.

“Great, we picked up Chopper and he is so awesome and even fluffier then I remember!” Luffy cheered, he had spent hours chasing the reindeer around the ship pulling him into cuddles and running his hand through the doctors soft fur.

Shanks chuckled lowly, taking a sip from his ever present bottle of rum. “Good to hear it kiddo, looks like everything smooth sailing.”

Luffy considered his fathers words, a small genuine smile coming to his lips, realising for the first time that the darkness that lingered on his soul, that had been threatening to pull him under since he had first embarked on his second journey was finally easing. His crew a balm against the icy currents of his pain. “I think I'm actually happy." Luffy realised the words shocking him. "I thought it'd feel different, but they are them Shanks." Luffy explained tears of joy twinkling in his eyes not yet overflowing. "My Nakama are returning!"

"I'm happy for you Anchor." Shanks grinned nursing his bottle, as he remembered many a night he had held his son's trembling frame as he worried things would never return to how they were, how his broken mind would somehow ruin his crew.

"You are doing so well, I saw your bounty, gotta say looking every bit the tough pirate!"

Luffy's joy came to a stop as he remembered the darkness of that particular photo, gulping at the sudden lump in his throat. "Yeah, that... I’m worried that some things are changing so fast and I’m not sure it’s the right thing. I mean Sabo is here...” Luffy pondered quietly. “Ace is waiting in Alabasta and he never saw Sabo.... I just don't want it to go wrong.”

“Hey, it's going to be fine kiddo. Your brother deserves to know, they both deserve to get the chance to reunite....” Shanks trailed off, his eyes finding a picture on his desk he had recently unearthed from storage, shame filling his stomach as he looked upon the two children grinning from each other's arms. Red and Blue, brothers in arms, ripped apart by his own actions.

“You’re right Papa, it’s going to be fine,” Luffy said softly cradling the den-den receiver softly sending his gentle support as he sensed his fathers pain.

Shanks barked a laugh. “You Anchor are too clever for your own good.”

“How long till you arrive?” Luffy asked gently prodding.

“We are still away's out, paradise is a long way from home, and it's a perfect chance to check on our people.” Shanks sighed, Beck had long since started calling him out for taking his time heading to Sabaody.

Luffy smiled sadly hearing the distress in his chosen father's voice. “It’ll be okay Shanks-San, Old man Rayleigh and Uncle Bug will listen. Besides aren't you picking up Makino after? you shouldn't put that off, she's all alone without me!”

“Your right kid.” Shanks swirled his drink, he was looking forward to having his green haired barmaid where she belonged. “Anyway, tell me more about this Chopper.”

Luffy smiled softly before breaking into a story about the greatest doctor that had ever lived happily distracting the older man from the darkest recesses of his mind as he had done for him many times before.

As Luffy finished his call with his chosen father he made his way out of the privacy of his rooms up on to the deck of the merry, he could hear the life thrumming around him, a balm on his fiery soul.  

“You need to rest!” A small nervous voice stuttered down from the upper deck by the vibrant orange trees, the ships Doctor still a child in many ways, unsure and unconfident dealing with the strong characters that made up the straw hat crew.  

“I am resting, I’m sitting down aren't I?” Zoro’s huffed voice rang down loudly as the man grunted with exertion. Luffy glanced up to see the green haired man sat cross legged on the floor slashing one of his swords through the air continuously, a heavy weight tied to his arm to add resistance.  

“You won’t win this one Chopper I’m pretty sure the mold in his hair rotted his brain a long time ago.” Sanji stated from his spot manning the sails a smoke in his mouth.  

Nami rolled her eyes fondly from where she lay basking on the desk, she had long since stopped trying to get the men on board to act human.  

Luffy met his brothers' eyes as they sparkled watching the Strawhats indulge in their usual banter, Sabo had seemed to calm in the past days more of the brother he had come to know after Dressrosa, the trauma of his memories returning seeming to ease.  Luffy laughed joyously at his family, the past week of sailing had been full of small moments like these, the familiar banter a comforting blanket to the pirate captain.

The peace was disturbed by a familiar blue haired princess bursting from the bowels of the ship a paper in hand, her face scrunched in fury.  

“What is this!” Luffy watched as Vivi stormed towards his brother, tears in her eyes and a fire in her voice, she shoved the paper into Sabo’s chest the revolutionary balking under the princess’ distress.  

Luffy heard Nami gasp from her perch, turning his head to her he watched as she paled, guilt filling her expression-weird.  

Sabo gently reached up to take the paper from the princess hand, his eyes blinking over the familiar front page.  

“Well?” Vivi demanded her voice like ice even as floods of tears streamed down.  

“War.” Sabo finally muttered quietly a sad half smile on his face.  

Vivi recoiled as though she had been hit, a sob escaping her lips before she inhaled loudly, her hands balling up into fists as she regarded the surrounding pirates.  

She regarded each individually noting how both Nami and Usopp refused to meet her gaze, how Sanji watched quietly his smoke held low in his hand as it disintegrated in the wind. How Zoro had come to stand his hawk like gaze watching for signs of danger. Choppers curious face peaking out as he hid behind a post, attempting to hide from the princess ire. Finally she met Luffy’s eyes as he stepped forward his hand stretching out to snag the article still held in his brother's hand.  

The crew were silent as Luffy brought the article up reading about the atrocities currently ripping apart Vivi’s home.  

Anger took hold as he read, he had known war always had a cost and Crocodile was ripping apart Alabasta for his own gain, but he hadn't realised his crew was hiding the truth from Vivi. He had wrongly assumed that Nami would have come clean as she had the first timeline. Carefully he stepped forward coming to a stop in front of the princess’ slowly he pulled her into his arms as she fell apart sobs wracking her frame.  

“I’ll make him pay, Vivi, I promise.” Luffy muttered holding her as she fell apart.  

“Did you know?” Vivi asked her wide eyes pleading.  

“About this?” Luffy asked raising the paper now screwed up in his hand. “No.”  

Vivi gave a wobbly smile glad she could at least trust the captain she had come to care for.  

“Good.” She nodded collecting herself, before gently removing herself from the captain's grip. “I will only say this once, I am very aware I owe you all for your help in returning me to my home, but if you ever withhold essential information about MY kingdom again you will regret it. These are MY people who are suffering, and I deserve to know.” Vivi’s eyes were like daggers as she glared at Sabo, Nami and Usopp the three onboard who had given their guilt away. She nodded once at the Captain before disappearing back to the bowels of the ship where she could fall apart in private.  

Luffy watched the princess go silence left in her wake. He bit back his guilt at his own future knowledge, it wasn't set in stone, and he would change it, so Vivi didn't have to know, no he wouldn't lay that on her conscience.   

“Luffy I..” Nami began as a tear broke free falling down her cheek.  

“Are you sorry?” Luffy asked his eyes sharp as he regards his navigator knowingly, he didn't want to be to harsh his own secrets bitter on his tongue, but he wanted his navigator to learn.  

“I am, I just thought if she knew she wouldn’t want to help Zoro...” Nami tried desperately to explain.  

“Vivi isn’t like that, Vivi is Nakama and would do what it took to save any of us.” Luffy exclaimed his voice like steel.    

“I’m sorry.” Nami muttered sadly.  

“I’m not the person who needs to hear that.”  

The day had passed in a tense silence, the crew aboard the Merry each lost in their own thoughts. Luffy had spent the day mainly in the company of Zoro and Chopper ensuring that his swordsman got the rest he needed by manipulating him into nap time and dragging the small reindeer with them in a cuddle pile on the top deck. Sanji spent the day stress cooking hoping a full feast could mend the bridges aboard the ship, not liking the tension on board. Usopp had spent the day alone working tirelessly with scraps of metal creating something that looked dangerous. Sabo had spent the day hidden inside the ship reflecting on his time aboard the Merry and his actions towards the blue haired princess, they had been doing so well but he had ruined it by leaving that damned article where she could find it.  

Nami had disappeared hours ago down into the female quarters, the males onboard giving them their privacy, forcably ignoring the shouts that emerged from the room, each relieved when both females had emerged unharmed having reached an understanding.

“Dinner is served!” Sanji called out a waft of delicious scent following him from the kitchen. “Everyone to the table now, no exceptions! Luffy go grab your brother and I’ll give you an extra portion of meat.”  

Luffy grinned toothily at his chef before bolting down to drag his brother up to the table by his ear, happily inhaling his reward.  

Once everyone was settled and tucking into the provided feast Sanji cleared his throat. “Now that we are all gathered and calmly...” He paused to glare at each of the males around the table. “at attention I think it’s time we got some things straight.” Sanji took his seat folding his long hands in front of him gesturing to the blue haired princess. “Vivi my lovely flower, I think we could all do with the reminder of exactly what it is we are facing in Alabasta.”  

Vivi frowned softly her hands picking nervously at the food in front of her, her eyes flickered across the table finding that each person gathered were listening, Sabo’s eyes apologetic and soft in a way that gave her courage. “Well you see..”  

Vivi explained everything that had led up to the revolution and Crocodiles manipulations the gathered pirates and revolutionary listening raptly as she spoke of her home and how her oldest friend had been used to start a war.  

Sabo softened as he listened sure that the woman in front of him would sacrifice everything for her people, he had already pledged himself to her mission but now he knew that he would lay down his life to help protect the kind soul that stood before him, here was an example of a royal who had grown up with the world at her fingertips but hadn’t given into the lust for power most in her position had fallen for. Vivi was a beacon for a better future, one he had spent his life searching for.  

“Crocodile really did think things through, he let fear and rumour destroy the countries faith in the royal family, a self-destructing system with barely any effort. It’s quite admirable really.” Sabo muttered his mouth once again running away from him before he could think it through, but as he heard his words and saw Vivi’s face fall he waved his hands desperately in front of his face. “I mean not that I agree with it, well not anymore, its just this is the sort of thinking is how you really topple an empire...ugh, I’m really bad at this” Sabo brought his hand up to hold his head.  

“I think what Sabo is trying to say is it’s a really good thing Vivi outsmarted Crocodile and managed to infiltrate baroque works- right Sabo?” Sanji stated rolling his eyes at the revolutionary who always seemed to know the worst thing to say to the royal.  

 “Yeah, thats it, exactly.” Sabo grinned bashful the tips of his ear turning pink.  

Luffy laughed. “Silly Sabo, of course Vivi is the smartest.” Luffy grinned laughing at how flustered his usually collected brother was.  

“So now that we know Crocodiles plans we need to come up with a way to stop him.” Sanji advised looking around the gathered crew.  

“Punch him?” Luffy asked grinning toothily.  

“I like that plan.” Zoro grinned over a bite of his meat, flexing his bicep.  

Nami shook her head rolling her eyes in frustrated fondness.  

“Isn’t he a Warlord of the Sea?” Chopper asked turning blue with fear. “Shouldn’t we just ask nicely?”  

“Or run away?” Usopp trembled both scared strawhats gripping each other in comfort as they shook in fear.  

“What we really need is to let my father know what is really going on.” Vivi stated sure her father would be able to fix everything if he only knew.  

“It won’t work.” Sabo muttered, again getting flustered when the angry eyes of Vivi shot at him. “I mean, I’m not sure punching Crocodile, or even telling your father would really help matters at this point, I mean, he lit the spark, but the fire is already aflame at this point, and the people don’t exactly trust the king. What we really need is a way to speak with the leader of the revolution. Show him proof, get him on side.” Sabo advised, Vivi’s eyes softening at his words allowing him to take a breath of relief.  

“If only I could get close to Koza, I know I could get him to listen.” Vivi muttered biting her lip.  

“That may work.” Sanji clicked his fingers. “He’s been chosen by the people to lead the charge, they have a trust in him they no longer have in the royal family. If we could get to him, then maybe he could get the people to listen.”  

“Then I get to punch Croco-guy right!” Luffy exclaimed stretching his arms.  

“Sure Luffy” Sanji rolled his eyes meeting Zoro’s smirking face with a fond half smile.  

“You know I’ve never tried to stop a revolution before... might be fun!” Sabo grinned.  

“It won’t be as easy as starting one, a kingdoms ruler needs one of two things to effectively rule, trust or fear.” Sanji muttered lighting a cigarette for something to do with his nervous hands. Luffy looked at him sadly as he saw Sanji’s eyes gloss over lost in his painful past. “Fear’s the easy one, you don’t have to earn anything, but trust, trust can’t be taken it can only be given, and once broken it takes time to mend.”  

“My father will be able to do it, he cares for our people more than anything, I know that once the truth is out we can rebuild of kingdom stronger then before!” Vivi muttered determined.  

“I hope you’re right Princess, it’d be nice to see a kingdom ruled by people who care.” Sabo smiled softly at the girl.  

“I hope to show you.” Vivi smiled warmly her eyes sparkling as she gazed at the revolutionary.  

The meal finished and a plan taking formation the crew split apart for the evening, Luffy giving Zoro a pointed look as he made his way out, glancing at the still quiet and distant chef.  

“Need a hand cook?” Zoro muttered, making Sanji startle, dropping the plate he was cleaning into the water which jumped out of the sink splashing them both.  

“Shit” Sanji muttered frantically wiping suds from his apron.  

Zoro grabbed Sanji’s hand causing the chef to look at him eyes wild and desperate. “You okay?”  He asked voice surprisingly soft.

Sanji nodded desperately pulling his hand from the swordsman's grip and turning  to return to the sink hiding his face. “Yeah, course stupid Marimo, just thinking of how many ways you and Luffy can ruin our plan.”  

“Sure...” Zoro muttered unbelievingly, but letting the subject go. Stepping forward he grabbed a rag beginning to dry the dishes as Sanji cleaned.  

They stood shoulder to shoulder in silence, Zoro offering silent support to the blond and Sanji thankful for his presence. Once the last dish had been cleaned and dried Sanji turned to regard the swordsman.  

“Thanks, you should go I’m sure the captain will be missing you.”  

Zoro looked at the chef confused. “The Captains fine, honestly what is your obsession with me and Luffy?”  

“My obsession!?” Sanji exclaimed confused. “You're the ones that spend every night wrapped up in the captains' quarters.”  

“Whats wrong with that?” Zoro challenged.  

“Nothing, yours and Luffy’s relationship is none of my business.” Sanji raised his hands defensively.  

Zoro raised a brow, if he did not know any better, he would think the chef was jealous. Smirking Zoro stepped forward watching as Sanji stepped back in panic, his heart fluttering as the chef's face reddened in embarrassment - his eyes becoming glued to the floor. Unperturbed Zoro stepped forward into the chefs personal space talking lowly into his ear.  

“There is no relationship between me and Luffy, you've seen the captains night terrors, having someone with him helps, but that's all it is chef, promise. I'm sure he'd welcome you if you wanted to join us again.” The rumble in Zoro’s voice made Sanji shiver despite himself but as quick as the moment came it was gone, Zoro leaving Sanji alone and flustered.  

Frustrated Sanji lowered himself to sit on the floor trying to calm his thumping heart, cursing the fact the swordsman had remembered that night. 

As they drew closer to Alabasta Luffy kept an eye on the sea awaiting the appearance of an old friend, one he was determined would have a better fate this time around.  

He grinned widely as he spotted the familiar form sending out karoo to capture his target he happily brought Bon Clay on board.  

Luffy was once more enraptured by Bon Clays performance his every step a dance as him, Usopp and Chopper happily played and bonded with the flamboyant Baroque Works agent.  

Luffy’s joy vibrated around him as they danced around the boat Luffy happily clinging to Bon Clay basking in their presence.  

Zoro watched with narrowed eyes as the stranger on the merry took on the faces of others, he did not trust them, but he could see a warmth of familiarity in Luffy’s eyes that spoke of trust and care towards the undercover agent. Reluctantly Zoro remained on the side-lines glad that at least two of the onboard crew had avoided being seen, Sanji who was busy prepping lunch and Sabo who he assumed had hidden himself in the shadows the moment they had an intruder.  

It was a relief when the agent left but the swordsman watched as Luffy’s face fell a sadness as Bon Clay called their goodbyes.  

“Hey Bon-Chan, remember us, kay! We’re friends now right? Friends have each others backs” Luffy called out as the figures ship set sail.  

“OF COURSE STRAW-CHAN US OUTCASTS SIMPLY MUST STICK TOGETHER!” Bon Chan called with an air kiss.  

As they sailed on Vivi tearfully exclaiming that Bon-Chan had stolen her father's face and revealing they were an agent, much to Sabo’s frustration that Luffy had allowed them access to most of the crew's face.  

“It’s irresponsible.” Sabo exclaimed. “You are a captain you can’t just welcome every stranger on board.”  

“Bon-Clay is awesome, and is a friend, no matter who they work for I know Bon-Chan is good!” Luffy pouted determined.  

“Luffy I know you like people with cool powers and you are so trusting its what I love about you, but you can not be so childish.” Sabo scolded.  

“I’m not being childish, I know what I’m doing and Bon-Chan is good.” Luffy glared his anger growing as the rest of the crew mumbled agreements with Sabo apart from Zoro who continued to observe quietly. “I’m not a kid any more Bo, I know what I’m doing.”  

“Sure Luffy, what was your big plan here, punch Crocodile right?” Sabo asked trying to get his brother to see sense. “Look, I know you want to see the best in people, but they have our faces, now we don’t know who we can trust.”  

“I know who I can trust just fine.” Luffy stepped forward anger clouding his face. “And punching Crocodile is a great plan, you guys can handle the rest.”  

Zoro stepped forward placing a hand on Luffy’s shoulder making the Captain look at him the fire in his eyes dying down slightly at Zoro’s calming presence.  

“The Captain has yet to be proven wrong in his instincts, look, I understand this isn’t a good thing but we know now right?”  Zoro muttered calming the situation, placing his trust in his captains knowledge. 

Sabo seethed slightly at how Luffy leaned into his first mates touch smiling softly at the man's words, he should be the one who had that effect on his brother, but the longer he spent here on this ship the more he realised how much had changed. He was no longer his brothers support system; no he had his crew now. It hurt; his brother had grown without him.  

“Marimo’s right.” Sanji stepped forward awkwardly avoiding the swordsman’s eyes. “Look we can come up with a signal now, something only we know about.”  

“Like a mark....” Vivi smiled clicking her finger as she had a brainwave. “How about a wrap on our arm!” She said pulling a piece of gauze from Choppers bag.  

“I love it... but they could copy it, I know lets put a cross beneath it like a double symbol.” Nami grinned grabbing a pen and drawing a cross on Vivi’s arm both women grinning happily at each other.  

“You two are so smart and beautiful, marry me please!” Sanji swooned as everyone ignored him, gathering around to get their mark.  

“So it’s a plan.” Nami grinned. “We arrive at Alabasta within the day- Step one: collect supplies for the journey. Step two: we split into two groups. Group 1- Vivi, Sabo, Chopper and Sanji are heading to search for Koza, while group 2 – Me, Luffy, Zoro and Usopp are off to Crocodiles casino so that we can get his treasure!” Nami broke off dollar signs in her eyes.  

“And punch him in the face!” Luffy cheered.  

“Can’t I go with group one?” Usopp asked shivering in fear. “Chopper swap places!”  

“No way!” The reindeer slapped at Usopps hand.  

“This is going to be fun!” Zoro stretched his arms Sanji looking pointedly elsewhere.  

“Next stop Alabasta!” Luffy cheered raising his fist high as he giggled, his anger forgotten as his brother looked on, a sad smile on his face.

Chapter Text

Sabo watched his eyes narrowed the smile on his brothers face became tense the closer they sailed into Alabasta. He could see through Luffy’s facade to the struggle waging war inside.  

He watched as his brother's crew noted their captain's mood, moving subtly around him with gentle touches of support, jokes given with forced laughter to break the silence. Even Vivi seemed to seamlessly adjust to the straw hats mood, her gentle voice listing everything they needed to gather for their trip across the desert plains, jokingly discussing with Sanji how many rations they would need to keep up with the captain's bottomless pit of a stomach.   

As they pulled into dock the crew became distracted by the gathers forces of the marines and baroque work’s ships lying in wait, their attention diverted so they missed the rubber boy slipping from the ship.  

Unusually quiet Luffy seemed to merge into the shadows as he made his escape, but Sabo had spent years learning how to move unnoticed, so he slipped out behind his brother easily following as he made his way to port.   

He followed as his brother made his way through town, his shoulder down, defeated in a way Sabo had never seen before. The rubber boy shuffled his way through the streets leading them to a quiet alley where they could stand unseen by the world.   

“You don’t have to follow me. I can look after myself you know?” Luffy’s voice was muted, dull in a way so unnatural to the normally chirpy boy.   

“You’re my kid brother; I’ll always be looking after you.” Sabo tried to grin walking up to nudge his brother with his shoulder.   

“I’m not a kid anymore Bo.” Luffy grumbled his eyes avoiding his brothers gaze.   

“No, that much is clear.... but Luffy if there is something wrong, anything, you know I am here for you right.” Sabo kneeled trying in vain to catch his brother's eye.   

“I know, you’d do anything for me, you and Ace both.” Luffy sniffled, burying his face in his arm trying to hide the tears running down his face.  

“Lu, what is it, what's wrong.” Sabo begged pulling his brother into his arms.   

“Nothing.” Luffy sniffed. “Nothing's wrong, everything is good... but I’m scared Bo, I can’t lose you again. I won’t survive it.”   

“Luffy.” Sabo softly muttered a hand carding through the youngers hair as he inhaled the scent of his brother, the scent of home. “You won’t lose me, I’m not going anywhere, promise.”   

“I can’t keep you forever Bo.” Luffy pulled away his watery eyes finally meeting Sabo’s own. “You need to follow your dreams, not mine. I won’t be the reason you give up.”   

“Luffy, I will be here forever if you need me.” Sabo promised his eyes boring into his brothers.   

Luffy smiled sadly wiping at his face as he pulled away.   

“Thanks Sabo, but I have my crew now, and you have your own dreams to follow. I want you to follow your dreams.” Luffy looked at his brother imploring, this was the reason for it all, to make all his Namaka’s dreams come true.   

“Luffy, I’m not even sure I know what my dreams are anymore.” Sabo blinked his eyes looking off to the distance. “When I was a child, I dreamt of being a pirate, I set sail so I could be free, but then I forgot what I wanted and became someone new... now... I don’t even know who I am Lu, how can I know what I want?”   

Luffy smiled sadly patting his brother's head. “Don't be silly, your Sabo. My brother. The rest will come with time.”   

“When’d you get so smart?” Sabo smiled nudging his brother.   

“Hey, I’ve always been smart!” Luffy exclaimed a small genuine grin brightening his face as he nudged the blond back harder.  

“Sure...” Sabo muttered attempting to grab the younger to ruffle his hair.   

The brothers friendly battle was interrupted by a column of fire that made its way suddenly into the sky, freezing the younger in place as he watched the fire fizzle out his face dropping once more into despair before determination took its place.   

“We need to go Bo, there’s someone who needs to see you.” Luffy straightened up before rushing off towards the source of the fire.   

Ace had been having quite a good day. His hunt for the traitorous Black Beard had led him to Paradise and put him in his brother's path.   

He had missed his little brother more then he would care to admit, the chaos that had surrounded him and the traumatising events that had glued them together in an unbreakable bond. He had been overjoyed to see his brothers first bounty, a hefty sum for a newbie on the sea’s he had proudly displayed the poster to all who would listen, even as the look in his brothers' eyes made a pit appear in the depth of his stomach.  

As his peaceful day was interrupted by Smoker he prepared for a fight, letting off a stream of fire launching himself forward. As the two powerful Logia users began to fight, they were interrupted by an excitable young Captain who knocked into the Marine Captain launching him off into the stands in surprise. Shocked Ace turned to see his little brother his usual grin in place, shock turned to anger as his eyes trailed behind him to the figure he had dragged along.   

“Ace!” The ghost muttered his voice surprised and smile wry.   

Ace had spent years on the open sea and had seen many things in his time, wonderous fruits that could change reality, but none that could revive the dead. Who was this imposter wearing his brothers face?   

“Get away from my brother!” Ace screamed, his anger raising as steam escaped his ears. He knew how much their brothers death had affected them both, and here was someone using their grief against them.    

“Wait, Ace...” Sabo muttered, raising his hands backing away slightly as he watched his brothers rage grow.  

Ace launched himself at the figure, his fists aflame.  

Sabo jumped back the sudden heat coming to close to his long healed scar, an arm wound round his waist launched him back away from the raging fire.  

“Stop” A voice commanded a black fist pushing against red flames. The voice seemed to echo, passers by stopping in their track's items clattering to the floor in shock.  

Ace paused mid-flight his brothers hand halting him as his words sending a familiar shudder through his being. It took his entire will to fight against the young captains order, a strength of will that should be impossible in one so young, the conquerors soul that echoed with the same strength of his own Captain.  

“What the fuck, Luffy!” Ace spat his shock forcing his attention away from his original target.  

“I said stop.” Luffy breathed a grin growing as he forced his brothers hand down, his strength overpowering the Logia user for the first time.  

Sabo edged his way forward glad to see the flames of his brother's hand flickering out of existence.  

“You never change Ace.” Sabo grinned a choked barking laugh escaping his throat like a sob as his eye's watered. “Always talk with your fists, to bull headed to listen.”  

“What is this trickery, my brother’s dead!” Ace shouted sparks escaping through Luffys haki covered fists as Ace’s emotions raged.  

“We were wrong Ace” Luffy smiled softly his own eyes watering as he looked at both his brothers, ASL together again, finally. Suddenly Luffy’s emotions overcame him like a wave flood fleeing from his eyes as he wailed.  

“Oh god Luffy stop crying!” Ace jumped up waiving his hands in front of Luffy’s face frantically.  

Sabo looked on at the moment committing it to memory, he was right somethings never change.  

“S-s-sorry, it’s just been such a long time... I-I-I never thought we’d have this again.” Luffy sobbed.  

“Hey Lu it’s fine, we’re here together again, now, pull yourself together before our literal hot head of a brother decides he wants to cook me like a tiger!” Sabo grinned.  

“That Tiger tasted good!” Luffy grinned wiping at his eyes.  

“How do you even know about that?” Ace questioned glaring at the blond.  

“It’s me Ace, I didn’t die, I just got a little lost.” Sabo looked into his brothers eyes imploring him to believe.  

“Sab...” Ace muttered tears welling up arms shaking with emotion.  

Sabo nodded as he was pulled into his brothers' muscular arms, Luffy’s arms coming wrapping around them securely as they cried together at last.

Chapter Text

Luffy watched as his brothers wrestled aboard the Merry, reaffirming that they were there, together at last. He saw how Ace’s hands continuously hovered over Sabo, ensuring he was within touching distance, concerned he would vanish at any moment. Luffy felt his own skin itch, fighting a deep ache to bring Ace in close, to force him to remain at his side, safe.

He sighed leaning into the warmth instinctively as he felt Zoro coming up at his side, his shoulder nudging him gently offering his silent comfort.

“So, you're the other brother?” Zoro questioned lowly snapping both mens attention to him. He could see how the eldest looked him over his hawked eyes assessing the swordsman, Zoro’s fingers twitched towards his swords, eager to test his steel a commander of Whitebeards crew.

A disarming grin spread across Ace’s face as he forced his eyes to soften, to allure rather than challenge.

“The oldest and the best.... you might you be?” Ace smirked cockily, flexing his muscles, a steady stream of steam coming up to cover his shoulders.

Zoro raised a brow, unimpressed, who did this guy think he was? Disregarding the older brother as Sabo chortled happily Zoro turned his face to his captain.

“Luffy, the others will be back soon. Is this guy coming with us?” Zoro grunted, waving a hand in Ace’s direction. His eyes searching his captains face, watching as the boys smile dropped, his eyes looking longingly to his older brother, before forcing himself back to his easy-going grin.

“How about it Acey? Fancy helping us stop a revolution!” Sabo grinned easily, a fist punching his brother's shoulder lightly.

Ace raised his hand to his head scratching at his scalp guilty as his eyes flicked longingly over his brother's face. “Well... I would love to, but I have this job I need to finish....”

Zoro watched his captain closely as the older brother spoke, his eyes assessing the boy for distress. He saw clearly how Luffy’s eyes darkened at Ace’s mention of a name, Marshal D Teach, the pirate known as Blackbeard. His concern peaked when he noticed a red circle starting to creep over Luffy’s eyes, his shoulders vibrating with tension. Nothing could prepare him for the distress he felt when he saw a tear run its way down his Captains face.

Zoro noticed Ace was not paying attention to the youngest as he talked, locked in his own past, vision clouded by anger. He also noticed Sabo looking concernedly at the tension in his younger brother. Zoro shook his head, a sharp signal, telling the spy to let it pass. He locked a firm hand on the rubber boys shoulder a grip that could break bones in a normal person but for Luffy the feeling helped to ground him.

Luffy eyes flicked back to his Swordsman, his second in command, his loyalist friend, someone who knew and understood the true extent of the darkness within. Slowly the vibrations halted, the red iris’ retreating from his gaze.

“No need to rush off.” Zoro grinned sharply at the oldest sibling, doing his job, keeping his captain safe and happy. “Stay for food at least our shitty chef won’t care.”

Ace looked over at the green head surprised at the invite from the person who had disregarded his existence. He raised a brow at Sabo who nodded his agreement with Zoro, his eyes begging him to accept. Well, he couldn’t let his brother’s down now could he?

“Thanks for the meal, Blondie, tastiest thing I’ve tasted in a long while, wonder if the main course would be just as nice.” Ace leared over at the blond chef his eyes glinting suggestively in the evening sun.

Sanji grinned at the boy the innuendo flying over his head. “With you and Sabo being this polite, makes me wonder what went wrong with the shitty captain.” Sanji laughed as he pulled a cigarette from his pocket, the end lighting with a click of Ace’s finger.

Zoro clenched his fist his frustration at the oldest sibling growing, but for Luffy he would endure this prats company.

“Seems Sanji is getting along well with my brother.” Sabo snuck up on the swordsman mirth lighting his tone. “Always been good with people that one, pretty sure he could worm his way into the navy’s bed if he tried hard enough.”

Zoro’s hand gripped tightly on the wood of merry edge a sound of pained creaking coming from under his hand.

“Lighten up Zoro, after all you're the one who wanted him to stay longer... maybe your chef could convince him to stay the night.” Sabo laughed joyously as Zoro snapped his temper flaring, tipping his flask of mead to the swordsman as he walked away to his brother's side.

“Hey stupid chef, training now!” Zoro shouted storming over the to the blond who looked at the second in command curly brow raised. “I’ve got some energy to burn.”

“Can’t you see I’m busy you ape... who raised you?... wait... let me go!” Sanji spluttered as the swordsman dragged him away.

Sabo lost himself in laughter at the scene in front of him, falling to the ground gripping his stomach as Ace glanced over brow raising at the blond brother.

“Did I do something wrong?” Ace grinned knowingly, shaking his head at the two retreating still arguing figures.

“Always did know how to cause the most drama didn’t you Ace?” Sabo steadied himself against Merry as he rose to his feet.

“Well, I could amuse myself with a certain blue haired Princess, but I wouldn’t want to lose you the same day I get you back.”

Sabo’s laughter stopped instantly, a crease appearing between his eyes. “Vivi?” Sa1bo gulped. “Look I’m not sure what you're implying but you have the wrong idea...” Sabo waved his hands around in front of him desperate for his brother to take his teasing words back.

“So, it’d be fine if I take a shot?” Ace grinned pulling his hat down allowing the shadows to fall over his face leaving only a shark like grin.

“Sure, if royalty is your bag go for it... why would I care?”

“Okay, guess I’ll go find myself a Princess.” Ace grinned making his way inwards toward the bowls of the ship, before a hand stopped him.

“You’re an ass you know that.” Sabo groaned his voice strained.

“You wouldn’t have me any other way right brother?” Ace grinned pulling the blond in to ruffle at his hair. “Now serious talk, tell me what the hell is going on with Lu?” Aces smile fell suddenly serious as he looked at Sabo’s eyes concern on show.

Sabo sighed, realising the eldest had not been as oblivious as everyone had thought. Gently he pulled his brother away, guiding him further from the crew not willing to be overheard.

“Look I haven’t been able to find anything out for sure, but something isn’t right here!” Sabo began desperately his eyes looking around, nervously making sure no one was within hearing range. “I know I lost a lot of years but Luffy... He’s almost like an entirely different person; I never thought anything would break through that rubber brain of his... but it’s like a part of him died and he’s trying to hide it, and he’s good, oh he is so good, but its just wrong, its all wrong!” Sabo blinked up at his brother tears running freely at the thought of anything that could break their Luffy. “I thought it may have been me... leaving, but you seem just as worried as I am”

Ace looked out to sea concern flooding his brain, thinking back over the dark days after the loss of Sabo. “After you left, I was so angry, but Luffy he couldn’t stop crying, it was months before he smiled, but this... it's different.” Ace frowned before meeting his brothers' eyes. “His haki is not natural in someone so young, so fresh to the grandline, it shouldn’t even be possible it takes years to hone that power. Heck, I still can’t use it reliably”

“You haven’t seen the half of it... Luffy its like he is a weapon, I think his power could rival even Dragons.” Sabo whispered terrified of what could have made the youngest like this.

“He’s not said anything?”

“Not to me, but his Swordman, there's something different there. Its like he’s constantly guarding him, he protects him, but not from others... no, from himself.” Sabo broke off wiping at the tears streaming down his face as he thought about the walls his brother had put up. How he was hiding himself from the world, from his sworn brothers.

He had thought he could help Luffy but he realised with a pang, Luffy didn’t want them to save him. He had his crew.

“He’s struggling Ace, but he doesn’t want us to worry. He has them!” Sabo glanced around, allowing the noises of the Merry to fall over them.

Ace smiled sadly at his brother as they sat side by side watching the waves lost in their thoughts.

Luffy retreated to his room as Ace made his leave, allowing himself to break apart gripping the ordinary looking piece of paper as he broke. He knew he couldn’t prevent the circumstances that had led to Ace’s imprisonment, too much would be changed, but that didn’t mean it was easy to send his brother off to be defeated.

He remained alone in the darkness as he sobbed, allowing his trauma to flow freely the air around him blackened further by his volatile Haki.

Zoro stood guard as close as he could the thick power weakening him as he remained alert for the night, watching over his Captain even when he couldn’t be physically with him.

Come morning Luffy emerged his eyes haunted by the ghosts of the future, of the dominos that had started to fall on this day. He couldn’t dwell, they had a mission, his crew needed him.

Silently Sanji offered the boy his breakfast his eyes concerned as he noted the boy moving the food around his plate nothing reaching his usually eager mouth.

Zoro looked tiredly from his place inhaling the coffee the chef had provided, a soft shake of his head had the crew falling into the practised routine of ‘normality’. They wouldn’t push on the bad days, nothing could be said, they could only wait for their Captain to return to them. For the darkness to once more retreat.

“Well, we have about half a day’s sailing to reach our destination. Should we go over the plan?” Nami grinned, although it didn’t meet her eyes. “No need to ask the captain for a plan, he’d just say punch the problem!”

“I mean it’s not a bad plan...” Zoro leaned back, his teeth sharp as he grinned. “I’d prefer to stab it though.”

“Yes, stab the warlord great plan.” Sanji sat down lighting a smoke.

“Guy’s, I think we should just try and talk to the rebels, if we could only explain what is really happening, I’m sure they would understand.” Vivi exclaimed passionately.

Sabo’s eyes remained on his brothers broken form as he spoke, concern littered his voice even as he tried to act normal. “It won’t be that easy princess; it doesn’t matter what sparked the rebels. They are angry and out for blood, they need to be sated and enemy needs to be defeated. It could be your family, or we give them the real enemy... Crocodile.”

“I don’t want to fight.” Vivi’s voice was pained. “I’ve done so much lying and fighting, I just want to help my people.”

“You don’t want to fight?” Luffy’s voice was like ice, as frozen as his heart after he had sent his brother off to danger. “Then what are we doing here?” He slammed a fist on the table causing his discarded dinner plate to break, food flying. “We are here to help you Vivi, but we will not fight your enemies for you! Did you think Croco-guy was going to roll over because you told people he was bad? He won’t!” Luffy stood angrily his face dark, breath short. “Do you love your people?”

Vivi nodded, her eyes filled with tears, scared of the dark look on the often gental captains face.

 “Then you need to be prepared to put your life on the line, to risk it all to save the ones you love.” The air shook with Luffy’s power. “You might even have to put the people in love in danger, that is what it means to fight for your dreams.”

Zoro put a hand on the captain’s shoulder, forcing the boys' eyes to find his own, silently telling Luffy to get himself together.

“Sorry, Vivi...” Luffy blinked his own eyes filling with tears. “It’s just we are here for you, to fight beside you, but I need to know can you fight for yourself?” His eyes met the princess own, watching as determination took the place of fear, waiting for her to firmly nod at his question.

“Good, now, breakfast.” Luffy nodded forcing his face into a grin, making himself be present in the moment, picking around the broken plate to shovel food in his face.

Zoro watched over the crew as they recovered; Vivi gently returning to her own meal her newly found determination clear in her shoulders even as tears made their way silently down her face. He noticed how Sabo’s hand was gently clasped on her knee in silent support his sharp eyes monitoring his brother. How Usopp and Nami’s eyes were also shifting from person to person trying to avoid attention. Sanji stormed passed his shoulders set in anger. Checking Luffy was in control of his emotions as much as he could be after an outburst Zoro made his way on to the deck looking to confront the angry chef.

He came across the man, his body tensed as he kicked out at a punching bag they used for training.

Silently Zoro crept up on the boy a slight creak of the floorboard giving away his location before he could engage. Sanji's kick made purchase with his stomach momentarily winding him, he replied with a upper cut that caught the side of the mans face. Silently they fought taking and giving hit after hit until they both collapsed in exhaustion.

Panting Sanji finally broke his voice short and angry. “The damn Captain had no right talking to her like that.”

Zoro sat up, side eyeing the chef observing the man as he caught his breath. “He’s not wrong, war is brewing and it naive to think no blood will spill” He shrugged, trying to act nonchalant. “ Besides Vivi’s tougher than you think, she can handle it.”

“He went to far!” Sanji snapped. “We all let him act however he wants with out question... He’s killed people.”

“I’m sorry.” Luffys voice was quiet,his head held low. He had approached unheard by the two fighting, had overheard Sanji’s words and realised the chef was right. He had been so angry at himself for letting Ace go, so worried he had made the wrong choice sending his brother off to start a war, putting him in the line of fire to preserve the time line enough that he could attempt to control the outcome, attempt to do better then he had before. There were no promises in war, something Luffy knew well. “I was rude, but I wasn’t wrong.” Luffy clenched his fists remembering a burning field in his mind, the ultimate cost.

Sanji looked up meeting his captains eye the unguarded gaze of one who had been broken by war. Sanji knew the look of the broken, he understood desperation and fear and his captain was suffering.

“I know.” Sanji muttered, lighting a smoke. “Look, you need to learn to control yourself, that anger, what ever happened at Arlong Park, it can not continue.” He met his captains eyes his own serious. “We need a captain not a loose cannon. Can you do that? Because if not I will help Vivi then I’m done.”

“Okay.” Luffy stated not answering the question, truth is he didn’t know the answer.

Sanji held Luffys gaze watching him fidget under the scrutiny, nodding to himself he stood straightening the cuffs of his jacket as he walked to the rigging leading to the main deck.

“We will be arriving soon, if it’s war this Warlord wants, then that’s what he’ll get. Right captain?” His smile morthed his teeth sharp.

“Right” Luffy nodded.

Chapter Text

Sanji kept a close eye on the Captain as they traversed the dried-up lands Vivi called home. He could see through the carefree mask Luffy wore on his face, a seemingly carefree laugh as he befriended the local wildlife, chattering away as if he could understand the squeaks and squawks of the creatures.  

He watched as Luffy showed the old man Toto respect and kindness Sanji hadn’t realised he was capable of as they listened to the mans tale of his labour to find water in the sparse sand.   

He could see the unwavering respect and appreciation the rubber boy held for the man as Luffy held the old man’s gift of his labour understanding the gravity of the small amount of water he now held. Sanji help hold Ussop back as the younger boy tried to claw the barrel from Luffys back, silently supporting Luffy in his endevor to make the mans work worth it, lowly advising the sniper he was only wasting what little energy he had left.  

When they finally reached Rainbase Sanji let the captain and his Sniper out of his sight, easily allowing them to disappear in their search of water, stupidly hopeful the two idiots would not cause any major incidents in their endeavour.  

-  

Luffy grinned as he accompanied Ussop on the hunt for water, hoping that history hadn’t changed to much and he would once again find old Smokey in this town.   

He knew he would have to be careful, play his card right. Ensure he took the time to prove to Smoker exactly who he was, a different kind of pirate, one that could be believed in.  

 As they burst into the bar Luffy allowed Ussop to overtake him, the snipped eagerly claiming his prized water, gulping down as much as he could without taking a breath.  

 Luffy covertly glanced around his eyes thankfully falling upon his target. He watched as two familiar marines glanced to the side, their eyes struggling to place Ussop, a vaguely familiar face they had only seen glimpses as the straw hats fled the scene.   

Grinning Luffy inhaled, ready to play his part in this charade. “Ussop, no fair! I’m thirsty too... Share!” He shouted voice ringing clear and sharp through the room.    

Luffy smirked covertly as he watched the pair of marine's head swinging around to turn to him in shock at his shout. He watched grinning as their eyes fell from him to Ussop, the pieces falling into place.    

Luffy noted how Usopp looked up from drowning his thirst to see the famous captain Smoker, fright instantly overtaking him as he took in the uniforms.  

“M-m-marines” Ussop called out in fear before grabbing his Captains arm tightly, fleeing the scene, Luffy cackling joyfully as he followed.  

-   

Sanji groaned as he saw the two idiots barrelling their way through town, the stupid Captain cackling madly, so much for covert. He had been stupid for letting those two imbeciles go off alone.    

“What the hell!” Nami cried as the two sprinted past knocking her off her feet into Sanji’s waiting arms.   

Ussop shouted over his shoulder as they fled, warning them about the navy as Luffy grinned happily exclaiming ‘it’s old smokey!’.   

Quickly the rest of the crew sped after them, eager to escape as they could hear the navy quickly growing in forces as they trailed them through the town.   

“Couldn’t you have just taken him out, before they got back up?” Zoro grunted lowly catching up to his Captain as they ran.   

“Ussop drank all the water, I’m too thirsty.” The captain shrugged smiling innocently at the swordsman who rolled his eyes frustrated.   

Zoro and Sanji locked eyes over the Captains head, both acknowledging they did not believe the rubber boy for a second but knowing better then to question Luffys whims.   

“Well, so much for covert.” Sabo laughed easily, too casual to be running at his full power. “Pretty sure the whole country would have heard this commotion.”   

“That’s boring, we should just go in the front door!” Luffy exclaimed grinning wildly over at his crew, receiving nods of reluctant acceptance from all of them.   

“First we need to thin these hangers on down, we should split up. Meet at Crocs base.” Sanji suggested eager to get warmed up for the main event.   

“Awesome see you there!” Luffy grinned before twisting his body to look over at the navy blowing a raspberry as he bellowed- “Hey Smokey, catch me if you can!”   

Sanji smirked as the navy split off falling for their trap, he ran far enough to be assured his group could not call out for help as he slowed to a stop. He took a casual stance as he watched the navy surround him, stretching as he prepared to take them down, he would take care of his group before Zoro took out his own.  

-  

Luffy smiled to himself as he saw the cage close around them, his joy exploding even as his strength sapped, he’d done it. Even after all the changes that had happened in his story with Smoker he had still arrived at this point.  The first opportunity to truly show the marine Captain exactly who he was, the first spark that had led Smoker to his revolution.   

He held close to the memory of who these people would become as he watched Crocodile, so sure of himself and his plot. Bitter and angry at a world that had cast him out time and time again, a dream to create a world in his image. One that had festered into a darkness that consumed Crocs every move.    

He held his composure as Crocodile tested Vivi, asking her to choose between her friends and her country. This was Luffy’s hardest test, he hated to see his friend suffer, knowing he could put an end to it here if he just let go, listen to the manic voice in his head, let Nika handle everything, but he reminded himself it was too important for certain things to play out.   

He could feel his crews' eyes on him as he sat calmly besides Smoker, could sense the curious raised brow of the marine who was almost impressed by his restraint. A contrast to his normal behaviour, not wasting energy joining his crew in yelling at the warlord.   

He met the furious glare of his navigator as she loudly demanded he do something to help protect Vivi.   

He flickered his eyes to meet the gaze of Robin, her narrowed gaze observing, trying to read the rubber boy. He gave her an easy grin, her strict composure cracking a gasp leaving her lips as she blinked in shock.   

Luffy chuckled quietly to himself, Zoro cracking an eye open from where he lay using the situation as a chance to take a nap, sure Luffy would let him know if he was needed.   

He glanced at the remaining two stuck in the cage with them Ussop desperately shaking the bars of the cell hopelessly trying to find release, and his brother Sabo his fiery eyes glued to Vivi and Crocodile, hand on his pipe he was waiting to be needed.   

Luffy paused as he gazed at the look on his brothers face, noting the barely concealed anger that darkened his glare, he silently begged his brother not to do anything rash, his brother may act calm but Luffy knew a feral monster lived within his gentleman exterior.    

Luffy watched in silence as Vivi desperately fought desperately, Crocodile trying to destroy her using her her love for them against the love of her country, but he failed. His words only lighting the passion within her, the flames of revolution that ran through every member of their crew. Vivi was one of them after all, always had been and always will be, and straw hats fight to the last breath.   

As Vivi fell again and again Luffy could see his brothers anger growing, the blonds haki rising, blackened fists pulling desperately at the cage, his own nails were scratching nervously at his hands, leaving behind a trail of red, the tension fled as the transponder rang, breaking through the tension.  

-  

Sanji groaned as he lurched his captains weak form on to the dry ground, his eyes questioning as he saw the swordsman dragging the marine captain up to safety, and Luffy’s brother dragging the unconscious form of the wax-wax idiot.   

Once Luffy recovered he turned to Smoker a large grin on his face as he watched the Captain question their first in command.  

“I won’t let people die if they don’t have to.” Luffy proclaimed his grin darkening. “Now, Smokey we have a country to save. Can you look after three while we go punch Croco-guy?”  

The Marine spluttered his strength still returning and his shock high. “Just because you had your swordsman get me out, doesn’t mean I will let you go!”   

“No!” Luffy shrugged looking at the marine his head cocked. “You’re gonna let us go because we’re the best chance to stop Croco guy.” Luffy grinned his arms held casually relaxed behind his head.   

Smoker eyed the gathered strawhats, eyes drawn, noting the sound of approaching marines, exhaling defeated he nodded once at the captain.   

“One Strawhat.” He grunted. “You get one.”    

Luffy grinned nodding once, respect in his eyes as he looked over the now sitting Marine, before turning to take his leave ready for the next hurdle.   

Sanji quickly led them to the place Chopper was waiting, transport in hand. Luffy happily hopped aboard chattering on to the giant crab.   

It wasn’t long in their journey before they heard Crocodile looking across the desert land to see him quickly approaching, Luffy instantly taking off to put a stop to his advances. Sanji glanced around at the crew nodding at Zoro and Sabo, trusting them to look after his precious ladies before taking his leave after their Captain, he had promised he would keep an eye on him, and he kept his promises.   

He approached at a leisurely pace sure his captain could handle the warlord but ensuring he kept him within eyesight.   

“I wouldn’t interfere.” A velvety voice cut through the silence of the desert, drool filling his mouth as he looked towards the source.   

Nico Robin had her arms crossed in a way that looked innocent to anyone who did not have knowledge of the demon child but was in fact her normal attack position, smiling sultrily as she noted the blonds lovestruck look.  

“Wouldn’t dream of it, not when I could keep you company.” Sanji's eyes were hearts as he fluttered to Robins side.   

Robin relaxed her arms her mouth rising in a smirk she nodded towards the fight occurring in front of her, Crocodile offering the strange captain three minutes of his time.   

“Your captain is a strange one, I’m not sure I’ve ever met anyone quite like him.” Robin inclined her head towards the field where Luffy was stood talking lowly to the warlord who was throwing shot after shot at the rubber boy. “To challenge a warlord and not even attempt to fight back, just what is angle?” Robin leaned in her mouth smirking as she noted Sanji swooning.  

Sanji gathered his control, sparing a glance over at the supposedly fighting due, surprised as he realised it was not a fight he was watching. No, his Captain stood still accepting each hit, raising not a limb to stop the onslaught.   

“Luffy, what the hell is your problem. Stop him!” Sanji called anger flaring as he stepped forward ready to jump in at his captain's side.   

Hands came up out of nowhere to pull him back as the rubber Captain turned towards his chef showing a feral bloody grin on his face.  

“Sanji, don’t fight, captains' orders.” As he spoke, blood sprayed from his mouth.   

Sanji swore he could here Robin gasping lowly under her breath, her eyes almost soft as he returned to his place at her side posture tight as he forced himself to endure, to watch as his Captain was slaughtered, as the moisture in his body was sucked right from him, and his Captain did nothing to stop it.   

Sanji almost wished to hear that haunting laugh again, to see the eyes of the devil in his Captain, for someone to snap the boy from his fool brained plan.    

Crocodile laughed as he approached the rubber boy for the last time, driving his hook into the annoying child that had spewed nonsense, wasted his last breaths on trying to read Crocodile. Trying to understand his pain. No, the boy had been an annoying little bug; one he now squished under foot.   

“You heard your captain, heel, there's a good boy.” Crocodile laughed giving a last kick to the boy. “Bury your dead, plenty of places to dig!” Chuckling gruffly to himself as he walked off, enough of the distractions he had a country to claim.   

Robin remained behind as Crocodile left watching as the blond fell forward, his body shaking in anger as he fell to his knees in front of his captain. She could see the husk that was the boys body breathing lowly, how could he still be alive.   

She thought of everything she knew of the boy, of the offer he had made her. Looking at his broken form she felt a strange feeling of despair wash through her. Her heart begging her to do anything to help save her boy. Numbly Robin produced a bottle of water, her hands moving without thought as she forced the young boy to drink.  

As she poured, she could feel the boy move, life returning, finally she heard it. A gutteral moan that said one word, ‘food.’ Robin laughed lowly a giddy relief filling her, she had not lost her Captain.  

She shook her head shocked, forcing herself to her feet she put distance between her and the boy who had made her feel too much.   

Sanji huffed lowly, his concern and anger disappearing as his Captain returned the same as ever, he casually produced a snack from his secret supply, Luffy’s rubber hand reaching out to grab the offered treat his strength seemingly returning with each bite.   

“You didn’t try to fight Crocodile, why?” Robin asked curiously as she watched from a safe distance.  

Luffy looked at her blinking owlishly. “You and Vivi have unfinished business, I couldn’t stop Croco-guy here. It would get in the way of your dream, right?”   

Robin looked at the boy in shock his glittering eyes cutting right through her.   

“You should go Robin-chan.” Luffy smiled softly at the pain in his Archaeologists eye as she heard the honorific. “We will see you soon!”  

Robin observed the boy in front of her before nodding, gathering her shields as she made onwards towards her dream, finally.  

Chapter Text

Luffy’s muscles thrummed as he ran side by side with his chef, excitement bubbling within him as he prepared for the fight ahead. Passing through the city, brushing past the warring factions, Pell soaring high above them, Luffy launched himself straight for the top of the palace, instinctively knowing his chef would follow.  

He arrived in time to hear Crocodile mid speech, bragging about his easy victory over the rubber captain. Luffy could clearly see his crews faces, each showing disbelief, knowing that their captain could never fall to the warlord.  

He heard Zoro lowly chuckle, as he instinctively ducked low to avoid the flying projectile that was his Captain, Luffy wondered if he had begun to tap into observation Haki, his near constant knowledge of where his captain was. Sending the thought to the back of his mind as something to investigate later Luffy came to a stop with a roll directly at Crocodiles feet, he looked up eyes narrowed as they met the warlord's cool gaze.    

“Sorry I’m late Vivi, just needed a bit of water, but I’m ready now, ready to punch Crocs face.” Luffy grinned at his crew, including Robin in his glow even as she stood to many hands wrapped around the king. “You should go; I’ve got this one!”   

Luffy watched as the crew burst into action at his word, ready to stop the bomb threat and put an end to the fighting still engulfing the city.   

“You still think you stand a chance against me little bug?” Crocodile smirked sand coming up to surround the two hiding them from outside view.   

“I didn’t get the chance to introduce myself last time, did I?” Luffy grinned, raising a fist and letting it loose.  The blackened limb smacking straight into Crocodile’s now solid chest sending him sprawling into the sand wall of his making. “I’m Monkey D Luffy, grandson of Monkey D Garp and son to the head of the revolutionary’s Monkey D Dragon.”   

Crocodiles' eyes went wide, staring at Luffy like he was a ghost, something he would never be ready to face. Dumbly his hand reached up to gently touch his chest where the boy's fist had hit, feeling his hammering heart straining against its cage.   

“Now, you hurt my friends, so I’m not going easy on you.” Luffy grinned his teeth sharp and wild. “But next time we meet you get to decide how you want things to go, okay?”   

Crocodile looked up eyes wide a strange twang of emotion threatening to overwhelm him as he met the boy’s own familiar eyes, alight in a way Croc had never seen his own, a passionate fire ready to set the world around him aflame. A passion he had once upon a time seen in the eyes of his Dragon, flames that had fully engulfed the man until nothing remained but the fight.   

Nodding to steal himself against the growing emotions Crocodile stood, ready to face the boy, no longer as an annoying bug, because he knew this boy, he knew he was never to underestimated, it was in his DNA. Just as he knew the boy would except nothing less than his best.  

Raised his hands the warlord threw out a storm of sand, watching as the rubber boy nimbly dodged as if he could predict his every move.   

Luffy gave a savage grin to the man as he grabbed him in a haki covered grip, forcing him to remain solid as he launched the guy clean across the desert to land in a heap on the sandy floor away unconscious miles away from civilisation, in the sand he loved so much.   

Luffy took a deep breath as he investigated the direction, he had sent Crocodile flying, his emotions whirling around him, in the end the man had not been much of a fight, just a sad old man who had hidden behind schemes and secrets to gain his power. A cold and lonely path that had led him to be alone, abandoning everyone he could have loved surrounded by the bitterness of his own making.  

Shaking himself back to the present as the sand fell limply around him powerless now Crocodile was out cold, he glanced around seeing his order had been adhered to. His crew to find the explosives and Robin taking her opportunity to disappear with the king in pursuit of her dream.   

He walked through the town allowing his conquerors haki to flow free, sending people to sleep with every step, putting a pause to the fighting. He smirked to himself as the marines also gave into the pressure falling in line with the civilians, Tashigi among them.  

Casually Luffy walked to his goal, read to claim his archaeologist, hoping he can prevent her from the same fate that drove her to their arms the first go round.   

Robin heart turned to ice as she looked over the poneglyph in front of her, was is all for nothing? She had played a part in destroying a country, letting innocent people suffer for nothing. It couldn’t be, could it?  

“This is it?” Her voice was small as she fell to her knees at the foot of the stone, desperate for Cobra to give her something, anything, a small beam of hope that she could still do this, still make her homes loss worth something.    

“Not satisfied?” The king asked voice curious, kinder then she deserved after her part in the destruction of his land.  

Her hand shook as she placed it against the stone. “It’s just the history of Alabasta, all this time, it was all for nothing.” Robins voice broke, the ice in her chest shattering, threatening to break her with every breath.   

“Robin-chan.” The voice was soft, breaking through her revery, footsteps silent as Luffy made his way to his Archaeologist. The sharp ice melting with each step.  

Cobra watched curious as the boy came into the light, shocked that he had survived Crocodiles onslaught, and seemed to have come out victorious. He watched as the straw-hat pirate came to a stop bringing himself down to sit in front of the devil child. His young face tilted in curiosity, reading the female with sharp but loving eyes. He had seen how his daughter had looked at this boy her eyes alight with hope and joy in the face of war.   

He watched as the boy reached out a soft hand wiping away the tears running down the girl’s face. “Join my crew.” Luffy’s voice was soft but firm as he gazed into the woman's eyes, his hand softly stroking her face as the tears continued to fall.  

Cobra watched as Robins face scrunched up in confusion, her eyes seemed distant, slow to comprehend what the boys was saying even as she naturally lent towards the boy, unknowingly bathing in his natural light.  

“Its not over Robin, your dream will come true. I will ensure we find the truth, for you, for Ohara.”  

Robin broke at his words, hunching over in pain as tears continued to stream down her face. “You know, how?” Robin coughed out her voice wavering in her distress.   

“I know a lot of things Robin-Chan, I can’t tell you how, but if you trust me, I promise you I will do everything to make your dream come true. It’s not over, we won’t let it be!” An unnatural glow seemed to surround the boy, a whisper of a laugh in the air, not one of malice but one that promised adventure.  

Cobra coughed breaking up the scene as he looked over the two ‘criminals’ in front of him, distantly it occurred to him what he was about to do would truly make him a traitor, heavens he hoped that his country would live to forgive him for the risk he was taking, but then the Neferatari’s had never been the kind of royals to play by the rules. He said a silent prayer to Lili, hoping this would be the one they had waited for.   

“There are whispers of many other stones just like this one, rumour has it together they hold a great power, one of knowledge. Then again you are only the second person I’ve met who could read the scripture.”   

“Second?” Robin's watery eyes flicked towards the kings, anyone who knew that language was long dead, weren’t they?   

“Roger.” Luffy muttered glancing at the king, his hand continuing to offer the archaeologist support as she deflated, the glimmer of hope that anyone else had survived the buster call that had defined her life fading back to oblivion.  

Cobra nodded rising to his feet to come over and stroke the ancient stone. “I was a child at the time, but I remember it well, he really was a special pirate. One my father placed his faith in, the faith of my family’s ultimate dream.”   

Luffys eyes glittered at the mention of Cobra’s dream, something he had never had the chance to learn in the first lifetime, but information he knew he would treasure this time around.  

“My family’s ultimate dream is to undo the mistakes of the past, to fight for a better future, one of fairness, where people are respected for who they are not for their bloodline.” Alabasta forgive him for what he was about to reveal, for the target he would be setting on them all. “A world where the ones in the shadows are no more.” The words came out clear, his conviction strong.  

Luffy looked at the king, allowing his haki to reach out, touching out to surround the king, searching for the truth. Once he found what he was searching for he nodded feeling a presence in the back of his head buzzing, it felt different from Nika more joyful less embittered against the world. The presence preened under Cobra’s words encouraging Luffy to take a risk, to be a little reckless, not that Luffy ever needed help with that.  

Looking to Robin he grinned wildly as he drew her attention. “Well, it seems like both our dreams are aligned, so I ask again, Robin, join my crew, help me find the truth.”  

Robin blinked, hope filling her eyes even as he felt the lingering doubt beneath it, something he knew she would not easily let go of.  

“Okay, Monkey D Luffy, I will join your crew, if only to find the other Poneglyths, for them.” Robin nodded smiling softly as she took a deep breath, preparing to rebuild the walls around her fragile heart.  

Luffy grinned before turning to Cobra. “Sorry Vivi’s dad, I’m stealing Robin so you can’t arrest her, but I left Croco-guy and I’m pretty sure the fighting's all finished now, so we’re good right?”  

Cobra laughed despite himself and the situation at hand. “I think we can consider Miss Robin cleared of any crimes again Alabasta, surely the devil child herself would not be associated with a group of bounty hunters, no matter how corrupt, correct?”  

Luffy laughed as Robin nodded, shame filling her at the part she played in the destruction of this land, and the tarnishing of this noble kings reputation.  

“Regardless Captain, as a notorious target of the government in a town filled with Navy, I believe I should retreat to your ship. Do not worry about me I can find my way and keep myself busy while you finish up your buisness here, after all it has been quite some time since I’ve had the opportunity to read, I think a good book is exactly what I need.”  

Luffy nodded understanding Robins want for privacy to sort through her thoughts and strengthen the walls of her facade that had crumbled.  

“Of course, Robin-Chan, now Vivi’s dad, I think what we all need is a feast!” Luffy grinned as he wrapped rubber limbs around the king rushing off back towards the palace laughing manically.  

Vivi’s smile did not meet her eyes as she glanced around at her friends and family enjoying the celebration feast, she knew this would be the last time all her loved ones would be together, and soon she would have to make a choice, she could only hope she would make the right one.  

She felt her Father slide into the seat beside her both watching the chaos unfold as the Strawhats took over the palace with their brand of party.  

“You certainly have made some interesting friends.” Cobra laughed lowly. “Interesting but noble.”  

“They saved Alabasta, without them I would never have made it.” Vivi acknowledged, her heart heavy knowing that this would be the moment she would need to make her choice.  

“They did.” Cobra took a deep breath, swirling the drink in his hand. “I will ensure that the world hears the true story of what occurred here.”  

“Father!” Vivi looked at the older man in shock, taking in the sturdy fire in his eyes that grew as he watched the straw-hat king. “But they don’t need the praise, honestly they would prefer that....”  

“It’s not about them Vivi, my darling, this is about so much more.” His gaze flicked to his daughters. “The world needs to know that the Government aren’t the only ones there to protect them, that help can come from the most unexpected of places. They need to know there are other options for protection.”  

“You do that old man they will come for you, hard.” Luffy came to the kings side eyes calculated. “As much as I hate to admit it at our current power, we can’t help you if they come for you.”  

“You can’t but the Revs could.” Sabo stepped up grinning. “A country like this, speaking in favour of pirates against the world government, Dragon himself would probably come support you. Say the word and I’ll put the call in.”  

“I thank you, the revolutionaries would be welcome, we can provide shelter in the palace, after all the place will fill empty with you travelling the world my daughter.”  

Vivi’s eyes watered as she looked at her father shocked, he was talking war, dragging there still recovering country into a battle against the world government there was no way to prepare for, and he wanted her to leave? “No.” Vivi’s voice was hard as steel. “You want to tell the truth, fine, I support you father.” Vivi took a deep breath glancing a Luffy, begging him to understand, her heart soring when of course she found acceptance and understanding in his gaze. Her Captain would always support his crews dreams and hers was always to protect her country. “Have you learned nothing about how far I will go to protect my country, I will not turn my back on our people as we challenge the world order.” Vivi rolled her shoulders standing tall every bit the ruler she was. “My place is right here, maybe not forever but in this moment, I will stand with my people.”  

Luffy grinned at the strength inside his pirate princess. “No matter what happens Vivi, you are one of us, this is yours, it is your flag as much as any of us Strawhats, we may not have strength now but when we do I hope you choose to be under our protection, to fly our flag high.”  

“Luffy...” Vivi’s eyes filled with water as she hugged her captain close.  

Luffy hugged her his own tears coming in droves, this was the hardest part, saying goodbye but he knew Vivi would never recover if she lost Alabasta, not again.  

He broke of the hug looking to his brother, his heart breaking knowing that it was time, that Sabo needed to find his own dream, one he could learn for himself. He tried to speak but all that would come out was a high pitch wail one Sabo had long been familiar with.  

“I knew deep down you were still our little cry-baby, lucky Ace isn’t here to see you like this.” Sabo smiled wryly pulling his little brother into his arms. “You have a good crew Luffy, let them in okay?”  

Luffy nodded hopelessly still unable to find his words.  

“I’ll look after her, promise.” Sabo whispered into his brother's ear.  

Luffy pulled back wiping desperatly at his eyes trying to control his emotions. “I love you Sab, always and forever.”  

“Love you to Luf, if you need me, I’m just a snail away, okay?”  

Luffy nodded before taking a deep breath, painting a fake smile on his face as he faced his crew, all of them seeing through his flimsy act. Calling them into action, time to set sail before the might of the government fell around them.  

Sanji watched from the watch tower as Luffy sat on the end of Merry’s head, his aura a dark cloud around them. It had already been a rough enough day but the shapeshifter, no Bon-Clay giving his freedom to grant their escape had been the thing that had broken the fragile facade the boy had been putting on.  

He remembered the night when he had thought he may lose Zoro, how broken he had been as he cradled him that night, the ferocity of his night terrors. He knew his Captain needed them.  

Throwing his cigarette into the sea he went to seek out Nami a plan forming in his mind.  

It was hours before Luffy manage the energy to pull himself from his spot, the growl of his stomach finally outgrowing the pit in his heart. As he arrived on deck it was to a sight that had him gasping, his crew including the newest member were curled up on the deck in their sleepwear, mattresses dragged up to lay in a big pile, perfect for a crew cuddle party.  

Finally, his eyes found a roaring fire, the chef roasting alligator within the flames.  

Questioning his eyes found his swordsman who shrugged raising a hand to point towards the blond cook. “Don’t look at me it was all his idea; I was just the muscle.”  

“It’s a beautiful night, beside Nami-Swan misses Vivi-Chan so I thought it was the perfect time for a sleepover, anything for my Nami-Swan, isn’t that right love?” Sanji swooned looking at the red head who rolled her eyes at the pet's name.  

“Yup, sure.” Nami grinned.  “Beside apparently, we have a new crewmate, who was once Crocodiles right hand person, so maybe more eyes watching out is a good thing.”  

Robin rolled her eyes, clicking her fingers as she commented. “Here I thought we could spend the night bonding by looking over the treasure I liberated from Crocodiles casino, alas.”  

“Treasure!” Nami’s eyes lit up with gold.  

Luffy laughed aloud allowing the warmth of his crew to chase away the demons for another day, after all it was on to the next adventure and this one involved sailing into the sky.  

Chapter Text

Shanks stood on the deck of The Red Force, his hand reflexively gripping and releasing Gryphon as it sat dormant in its sheath. The darkness of night was a cloak hiding their approach to the last paradise island.  

Ben watched from afar his lit cigar a beacon in the dark as he stood cask of ale in hand, it had been a tough sail since Shanks had let his Anchor run free. Shanks had floundered no longer having to hold himself together for his son, dedicating his energy to ensuring he could alleviate Luffy’s trauma preventing Shanks from facing his own. With the loss of his anchor the waves had crashed down against the Red head and now he needed to weather the storm ahead.   

Ensuring to make sound as he approached the captain, Ben wrapped one arm around the man as the other held out the offer of his favourite release.  

Shanks shook his head the motion stiff with tension, Ben raised a brow in silence his gaze calculated trying to read his Captain.   

“I can’t be numb for this, I deserve to feel it.” Shanks rasped out his voice as tense as his shoulders.   

Ben shrugged understanding his Captain, knowing nothing would lighten this particular load. He raised the cask to his lips taking a deep drag of the burning liquid within. Taking the long route from their territory had left them only with ale they normally used to swab the dirtier parts of the deck.  

Benn squeezed his captain into his side offering silent support, a reminder he would be there, always. “we’ll be ready to make anchor within the hour”  

As he pulled away he revealed a well loved photo from his Captains pocket giving it to the Red head, a reminder that no matter what happened here he would still have a family, have people to steady him against the storms.  

Shanks gave a small smile as he glanced at the photo, one of a smaller Luffy and him, both asleep on the beach, exhausted from training, happy and relaxed as they slept, the rubber boys limbs could be seen wrapped around his Dad.   

Looking up to the sky’s above where he knew his boy was currently raging hell against a self proclaimed god Shanks smiled, he was ready to weather this storm, for his Anchor.  

Buggy could barely keep himself together at he looked upon the building in front of him, a familiar itch between his joints, begging him to fall apart on the outside, the way he felt inside. For years he had ran and hid from the past, flitting from town to town on the big top avoiding the pain of his past.  

He felt his haki tingle within him begging to stretch out and wrap itself around the family it once knew so well. Determined he snuffed it down forcing it to remain contained in the box he had created to keep himself safe, a weak east blue pirate nothing like the son of the king.   

“You know I hear facing your problems is the best way to deal with them.” A familiar drawl echoed from the shadows.   

“Shakky” Buggy nodded to the woman acknowledging her tightly. He vibrated under her gaze desperate to fall into pieces.  

“Here I thought I was auntie S, guess you really are a man now.” Shakky’s lip unturned slyly, her brow raised.  

“Aunties a name reserved for those who stuck around...” Buggy shrugged making his way past the older woman his frame tense as he got closer to the bar. “Guess I have none of them.”  

He heard Shakkys inhale, tried not to imagine the hurt on her gentle face keeping his focus torn on his destination and keeping himself together.  

Entering the bar Buggy put his mask firmly in place, acting every bit the crazed clown.   

He glanced around the bar rolling his shoulders back as he sauntered over to an empty bar stool, refusing to acknowledge the two only two men gathered around a table within.   

Allowing his arm to flee his wrist he sent it out to grab the nearest bottle from behind the bar, seas knows Rayleigh and Shakky owed him a free drink, especially if he was going to get through this. He eagerly bit the cork on the bottle downing the liquid within, before promptly spitting it out, sputtering incoherently.   

“If you think we leave the rum in easy reach you really misjudge our clientele.” Shakky gave a small smile as she softly closed the door, her eyes gentling as she gazed upon the blue haired captain, seeing a much smaller version echoing from the past. She sauntered behind the bar with drawing a bottle of her finest before placing it in front of the clown, a silent peace offering.   

Buggy’s eyes narrowed at the bottle flickering to his once aunts face before finally allowing his eyes to fall on the other two inhabitants ignoring Shakky’s gift.   

Now the part of a fool he may play but he had always been talented at observation and as he looked at the two men, he could feel their tension. Rayleigh held his inside better, leaned back in his chair looking for all the world comfortable as he took long swings from the dirty bottle clenched too tightly in his hand. Shanks on the other hand looked a world away from his usual carefree persona.   

His red hair greasy and matted on his head, wettened from the storm outside, his eyes blackened from an obvious lack of sleep. Stubble unkept in a way that aged him, and a tense frown Buggy had never seen on his face.   

Groaning Buggy grabbed the unopened bottle before making his way over to the table landing with a thud as he popped open the bottle in front of him. “Well I’m sure a shit not dealing with this little family reunion sober.” He grinned before taking a large swig before offering the bottle out to the red head raising a brow when the man declined with a soft shake of his head his eyes focused drilling a hole in the table ahead. “Suit yourself flash piece of shit.”   

Shakky came over dropping a selection of bottles in front of the trio, giving a soft stroke to her husband’s face holding his eyeline till he gave a nod.  

“The place is closed for tonight, I’ve got some chores in town, help yourself to what you need.”  She stated with a nod, patting Shanks head caringly on her way out, her hand hovering as she passed Buggy wanting to reach out and touch the boy she had allowed her partner to leave behind. She left silently the only sound the lock on the door turning leaving them to their privacy.   

The silence grew strangling Buggy with its tension.   

“Why in the flashy fuck did you drag me here, can’t have been for us to watch you stare at a table!” Buggy growled driving a dagger into the spot on the table where Shanks was staring.   

Shanks blinked his eyes distraught as he finally met Buggy's own, making the blue hairs heart threaten to shatter into tiny pieces.  

Gulping back the urge to fight the demons that put the pain in his little brothers' eyes Buggy was instantly sobered. “Come on Red, spit it out, whats going on...”   

“D-Don’t call me that, I don’t deserve it.” Shank’s voice broke with his pain.   

“It’s okay Red, we both said some things, but whatever is wrong we can fix it.” Buggy forgot his anger, love for his brother winning out.   

“No, you can’t Bug...” A tear ran down Shanks face as he met his brothers' eyes. “I did something terrible.”   

Shanks opened his mouth, but no sound came out, a heavy power settled around the trio as a thick haki spread across the room, glass shattering, paused in time as the two younger pirates watched in terrified awe.  

Buggy couldn’t track what happened from one moment to the next Shanks went from sat beside him, his broken eyes imploring him to listen, to being pushed against the trembling bar his remaining arm pinned behind his back and a dagger at his neck.   

The wood cracked under the heavy pressure in the air.  

“You?” Rayleigh’s voice was terrifyingly calm for the tension rolling off of him, his haki wild and dangerous. “All this time I knew someone had sold us out, but never did I think it could be one of you.”  

Tears rolled down Shanks face as he turned in Rayleigh’s grip allowing the dagger to cut a line, his eyes were accepting.  

“Red...” Buggy stepped forward his hand going over to try and get between the two people he had called family.  

“No Bug, I deserve this.” Shanks blinked his eyes over to his brother, knowing this may be his last moment, the only chance to own up to his mistakes. “I sold us out to the Celestial Dragons, I’m the reason Papa died.”  

Buggy heard static, the words not reaching his brain as his body reacted, desperate to avoid the pain of facing the words he gave into to the temptation to fall apart, he fell to the darkness as his body split falling to the ground in pieces.  

“Fuck.” Rayleigh muttered pushing the dagger in deeper into the youngest his anger waring with the voices that told him he'd regret it, voices that sounded awfully like Roger and Rogue. He glanced once at his eldest, before pulling away from Shanks altogether, reeling his power in as he retreated.  

Shanks felt weightless under on the bar, watching his brother lay literally in pieces on the floor, it wasn't the first time he had seen this happen, but it was the first time he had been responsible.  

Rayleigh moved slowly and carefully approaching the bits of his blue haired son, gently he began picking up the pieces, cautiously Shanks edged his way forward pulling an old rag from the bar and tying it around his bleeding neck.  

“There’s a bed in the back; we can lay him there.” Rayleigh didn’t look to his other son as he gathered as many pieces of his oldest as he could.  

“Sorry Bug.” Shanks muttered as he pulled the remaining pieces to him, knowing his brother would not be able to hear him in his current state.  

Carefully the two men laid Buggy down placing the pieces in their corresponding place ready for Buggy to reattach himself when he came back to awareness.  

Task completed they both returned to the bar, Rayleigh bringing over two bottles placing one in front of him and the other in front of the chair that had gone sprawling when Rayleigh had pulled Shanks from his seat.  

Shanks shook his head at the offer receiving a brow in response.  

“Your already betrayed your captain, don’t try and play the martyr now.” Rayleigh growled out his Haki flaring slightly before the dark king smothered it back down.  

Shanks pulled the chair back upright sitting down and taking a deep drag from the proffered bottle.  

“Now you talk, I listen, and we find out just how deep the shit you stepped in is.” Rayleigh settled in closing his eyes as he listened unable to see his son, the boy he raised tell him how deep his betrayal went.  

Shanks spoke for hours, explaining the truths that had scorched his soul leaving him a husk of a man, how his twin had found him, filling his mind with doubt, picking at a young man's fears until he had made him a puppet for his blood relatives. He explained how it hadn’t been his intention for Roger to be captured, but once he had his so-called birth family had used his guilt to weaponize him, picking at his humanity repeatedly until it was gone. His son had been dead until a special boy with a familiar spirit had coaxed him back to life.  

Once Shanks finished his tale, tears sneaking down his face as he brokenly explained how his son had come to him, had told him what the future hold, his little boy so broken but with a strength to fight, a strength he gifted to his father.  

“Kids have a funny way of changing you.” Rayleigh muttered his eyes finally cracking open, observing his youngest boy. “You didn’t know what you were doing?”  

“Fingerland... he came to me, told me tales of my family, the power they held, it was intoxicating.” Shanks muttered guilt filling him. “I thought if I could learn from him how to hone the power that I could make Papa proud, but I thought I was manipulating him when he had already won. He would tell me tales, ask me where we would next be so he could teach me more, but one day he came, and he wasn’t alone.”  

“We knew someone was giving information out on us, that night wasn’t the first ambush attempt.” Rayleigh’s eyes bore into his son. “That was just the night Roger gave up fighting, he was worried if we kept fighting, he would lose it all. Already our dear Rouge was in hiding, we knew they wouldn’t rest till they found her and the poor babe she died to protect. He said he couldn’t lose you too, better he allows Garp take him in now then we all die to the filth that own the land.”  

Shanks sobbed his heart breaking as he realised that his Papa had died for him as he was selling him out to the enemy.  

“I will never forget what you’ve done, but in the end, I think Roger saw the writing on the wall long before you ever met your brother.” Rayleigh drowned the dregs of his bottle. “It comes down to this, I could never punish you as slowly and painfully as you are punishing yourself, I know that Rodger and Rouge would want me to forgive you, but I’m bitter, because I lost them, I lost everything.”  

Rayleigh took his leave heading to the back of the bar before he left he paused glancing back. “I only have the one spare room, and I think after the revelations made tonight it’d be best if you return to your ship, we could all do with some space.”  

As his father left Shanks fell apart, he remained for hours curled on the bar floor until he had the strength to send a flare of Haki to Benn asking his ever loyal first mate to come and get him.  

He heard the door crack as a feminine gasp filled the room, next he knew a strong pair of arms came to his aid lifting him into a sturdy chest.  

“Sorry it took so long Captain, had some visitors while you were gone.” Benn smiled softly down at the feminine figure now basked in the light of the lamps on the street outside.  

“Makino?” Shanks voice cracked under the pressures of the last few hours, worried he had finally cracked.  

“Garp brought me, apparently Luffy was very persistent about me coming here.” The green haired barmaid smiled softly. “When you are feeling better you are going to have to explain how the hell you’ve got Garp the Fist acting as a delivery boy for a pirate, but that can wait till we get you home.”  

“Home?”  

“Yes, you see I’ve nothing tying me to Dawn now, and a house is only a home when you have love.” Kino softly stroked her hand over Shank’s cheek where he rested in Benns arms.  

“Home sounds good.” Shanks gave a weak smile, his eyes glancing over Makino and Benn, warmth that Luffy had arranged for her to be with him, he knew that no matter what the outcome was with the family who raised him he would still have this, the family he chose.  

Chapter Text

Zoro grunted as he took a shin to his sternum, knocking the wind from his lungs, forcing a coughed splutter from his mouth as he gritting his teeth, determined.   

“Again!” He demanded, forcing his startled senses to concentrate outward, trying desperately to sense the chef's movements.   

“No.” The answer was short and blunt, the smell of smoke hovering in the air from a now lit cigarette.   

Zoro growled frustrated as he pulled the bandana from around his eyes, glaring daggers at the blond as he leaned on the mast.   

“Don’t give me that look moss head, we are both still recovering and it's been 5 hours, if you're not getting it now more bruises aren’t going to get you there.”  Sanji gazed across the swordsman's body, currently a painting of black blue and purple hues from bruises at various stages of the healing process.  

“I was getting it, that last one I could feel it before you landed, one more, I can do this.” Zoro’s hands balled into a fist angry at his own weakness, and his misguided guilt at letting down his Captain and the crew.   

“Sure you were, mold for brains.” Sanji threw his smoke to the sea below, settling down to the floor wincing slightly as it the movement tugged at his various wounds from the trip to the clouds.   

Zoro softened instantly, taking pity on the chef's obvious pain. With a grunt Zoro lowered himself down to settle beside the blond, close enough to ensure privacy, even with Luffy’s almost sensitive ears. The rubber captain had turned his senses up to 11 after their time in the sky where he had been unable to protect the crew from their various plights.  

For all Luffy’s strengths he could not be in several places at once, and alone the crew had learned they had a long way to go to match skills with the ‘gods’ above. Each of the Strawhats had been left with a mark from their time in the sky.  

“Come on stupid chef, loose the shirt” Zoro muttered lowly looking at the blond as he shivered in the cool air.   

“It’s fine, just stretched it a bit is all.” Sanji muttered brushing the swords man off.   

“You’re in pain, you want the captain to see you like that?” Zoro asked, watching as Sanji flinched at the thought. Luffy had been a ghost of himself since they returned from Skypia, his rare moments of sleep dragging screaming nightmares from the rubber boy, blaming himself for each injury inflicted on his crew. They had all quickly adapted to hide the worst of it from the Captain, following Choppers advice to ensure they healed as quickly as possible.    

“Fuck it.” Sanji muttered, his long fingers coming up to unbutton his silk shirt. The shirt fell away to reveal a nasty burn in a starburst pattern on the man's skin, a ragged and dry, partially scabbed over and tight. Something he would have once worn as a mark of honor from where he had taken shot after shot of lightning protecting his family, but thanks to the dark look in his Captains eye was now hidden away. Zoro lent forward, inspecting, he could see where the wound had pulled, fresh blood gently streaming from the raw skin.   

“Ointment?” Zoro grunted shifting to grab the tub Sanji held out, with only the stars as witness Zoro carefully lathered the cream on the chef, gently stroking the damaged skin, cooling and soothing the pain.   

Sanji kept his eyes on the deck of the ship, avoiding the swordsman entirely as he worked, each touch hitting him like a shock wave. Never had he been treated so delicately, touched with gentle figures like he was important enough to consider his comfort.  

The time in the sky had given them much to think over, they had thought they were ready to face it all, the rigorous training they had put each other through had proven to be useless beneath true power. It had taken only and hour of Luffy being a snake's snack for everything to fall apart. Sanji had been shocked repeatedly by a maniacal god, trying to protect Nami, while Zoro had taken a beating from two sides of a warring faction, winning only to be felled by one shock. Together they had promised never again, they would get stronger, they had to.  

‘Matra’ as the sky people had referred to it was the same skill they had seen Luffy use, ‘Haki’ something that could be learned. So, they began training in earnest, thankful that once the crew had learned of Luffy’s night terrors they had all stepped up to help Zoro with cuddle duties.   

The crew had knocked the wall down between the two cabins on the main deck, most nights would find the crew in a giant pile all keeping their captain safe and sane, and once Luffy fell asleep Zoro and Sanji would sneak away to train, desperately trying to unlock haki.  

Sanji flinched as Zoros nail accidentally scraped a bit of raw skin, his eyes seeking out the swordsman's face without permission in his shock.  

“Sorry.” Zoro muttered his eyes finding the chefs own as the blond moved, suddenly they became aware of how close they were, breath mingling in the air, their eyes locked as they leaned closer still. They remained locked in the moment, both afraid to move, Zoro’s fingers suddenly felt like flames where they trailed on Sanji’s chest, then as quickly as it came it was gone-.  

 Zoro was sent sprawling as Sanji sprinted to his feet, nimble hands already doing up his shirt. Sanji looked like a frightened animal as he fled disappearing down into the depths that had once been Luffy and Zoro’s safe haven.  

The crew awoke to an unusual tension in the air, groggily stumbling around the ship, the lack of breakfast and coffee being prepared from them a big indicator of trouble. Sanji had prided himself on always been the first to wake, well behind the Captain but no other human could survive on that sleep schedule.  He liked to ensure that food and drink was always ready for the others as they rose. That morning, they only found a cold stove.   

Instantly Luffy could feel them when he woke, Sanji projecting fear and self hatred from below and Zoro with his anger and resignation. Knowing the two and their weaknesses and strengths Luffy knew he was not what Sanji needed in this moment so went to join his Swordsman.  

Luffy found his second in command, a bottle of rum held loosely in his hand and the echos of heartbreak in his eyes. Silently Luffy sat down, molding his rubber body into his Zoro offering his support, he knew nothing he could say would help either of his wings, all he could do was be there when they needed him, until they found their own way to each other.  

When Nami awoke she tracked down Sanji disappearing into the bowls of the ship only to materialize a short while later, fury in her eyes as she glanced at the mast before making her way to the kitchen and preparing a basic breakfast.  

“Food!” Nami’s voice snapped from below.   

Zoro blinked at Luffy, knowing how much food his captain needed to survive but also knowing that his Captain would always put his crew before his stomach.   

Pulling himself up he grunted as he made his way down to the mess, Luffy wrapped around him as he moved, filling his second with his warmth. Once downstairs Nami placed a plate of burned food in front of him with a huff and a glare before turning to give Luffy a perfectly cooked meal, ‘great’ the swordsman mutterednow the navigator was also pissed at him.  

Time passed, Sanji coming out from his self exile but things remained tense as they made their way into port at the next island, Long Ring Long Land.  

Robin watched the games from the sidelines giggling softly at the antics of the strange crew she had found herself traveling with.   

The captain and his contrasting personalities, one moment careless and childlike, recklessly heading for adventure like he was born to it, not an ounce of consideration in his body as he flung himself forwards cackling with joy. Without notice the boy would change become withdrawn, tense, an intensity that bled from him darkening the air around him. He would scream and rage in his sleep, going somewhere only the touch of his crew could bring him back from. It touched Robin in a way she didn’t care to acknowledge how the boy would soften at her touch, like he actually trusted her.   

Growing up she had never known the comfort of arms to hold her, but since joining the strawhats she had almost instantly been dragged into the crew's giant cuddle parties. She would always ensure she remained on the outskirts, keeping around enough to be noticed but not to get attached.   

The Captain really did attract the strangest crew, first their was  the navigator, a girl born to be a pirate. She flourished on the waves leading the way to the next destination, confident in her skills she would predict even the weather on the Grand Line. It had shocked Robin how comfortable Nami had become around her, a single attestation from Luffy had Nami firmly in her court. The navigator looked at Luffy like he was the sun itself, never swaying from her belief the captain would protect her. It amazed Robin to see someone who could hold such blind trust in another.  

The sniper was a unique choice, in all her years on the seas never had she seen a pirate with a slingshot, but somehow Usopp made it work. What he lacked in brawn he made up in brains. His mind was quick as a whip, coming up with ideas for different inventions. It was understandable that the captain had ordered they gather as many dials as they could carry, always encouraging the snipers' ideas.   

The doctor had very quickly smuggled his way into Robins heart. Unwillingly Choppers innocence called to her, begging her to protect it in a way no one had protected hers. The seas were no place for a child, but Chopper was so passionate about his dream Robin he made it work, even when he was scared. Even as she tried to avoid him, she gravitated towards him, protective. At night she would find her hand curling in his fur, softly petting him as he sleeps, praying he’d stay naive to the terrors that plagued her and the captain both.   

The swordsman and the chef were a strange duo; both gravitated around the captain in their own way. Zoro was the pillar that held the rubber boy up, his support always silently at his side. Doing his best to support the Captain, obeying his every order without question. The chef was the pull to Zoro’s push, always striving to make the Captain better. He wouldn’t meet Luffy where he was, instead challenging him to move forward to let them in. She could remember that first night, how the Chef had cleverly laid the plan to camp under the stars, moving the Captain away from shutting himself in the dark and bringing him to the light. He would never disobey Luffy but he was constant challenging him. Ensuring they never lost him to the darkness that hovered within.  

Together the Chef and the Swordsman seemed to fit, sure the would fight like an old married couple but at the end of the day they both wanted the best for each other and their crew.   

Recently something had thrown them from their usual synergy, the tension around them more of a storm then the usual fire. Sharp and tense ready to break at a moment's notice.  

Robin watched calculating as they spent the first round of the games as far away from each other as possible, not a word or a glance between them. It seemed the gulf between them was growing wider by the minute as Luffy ran around thwarting Foxys cheating. They barely looked at each other even as the Straw hats took the first round of the games.  

Then came their turn, together with Chopper they were to bring them to victory but the forced proximity caused them both to fumble, hard.  As the whistle blew on the game it found Sanji and Zoro both thrown across the field from their own attacks, and poor Chopper sobbing as he was accepted into Foxys fold.  

Luffys eyes were dark as he glanced at his doctors tears , telling him to be a man and stop crying before swearing he would take him back, no matter what he would never loose his crew.  

Zoro looked on eyes dark with guilt as saw the echoes of pain in his captains eyes.  

Robins lips curled in a dark smile as she watched her captain ruthlessly take down the silver fox, gone was the carefree captain and his place a ruthless warrior, calculated in the quickest way to defeat his foe. As Foxy lay defeated Luffy turned with a grin to pull his doctor to him holding on tightly to remind himself Chopper was safe, where he belonged.  

As she watched the captain kind hearted helping the old man who had been left behind Robin smiled, the straw hat really was a special individual. Truly Robin could see the boy making all his dreams come true, she could only hope her curse wouldn’t drag him down before he got his chance.   

Even as she thought it she could feel a familiar chill in the air, a feeling that haunted her dreams. A deadly mix of ice and fire that had swallowed her homeland leaving her truly alone. Shaking her head she tried to shake of her ghosts but the feeling remained.  

Luffy looked up over her shoulder eyes sharp. In a moment Luffy had moved himself between Robin and the approaching marine.   

“Aokiji” Luffys voice was forcibly causal, turning to shield Robin as much as possible.  

Aokiji looked up surprised at the sound of his name, he surveyed the young crew in front of him, Garps grandsons crew.   

Sighing Kuzan settled himself to the floor, he was on vacation and had no wish to stop the pirates, but a glance at the devil child peaking out from below her short pirate scratched at his brain, reminding him of a choice he had made early in his career, one that had led to the death of many.  

Luffy following the lead of the Admiral crouched down to settle on the ground. They looked at each other as they sat both judging each other testing the resolve.  

Luffy felt the gentle probing of haki being released as a gentle stream to go unnoticed to those not as adept as him. Luffy matched allowing his own haki to push back, a warning.   

Kuzan raised a brow, he had heard from Garp how promising his grandson was, the pride in his eye that couldn’t be smothered as the boy made waves, but the measure of control of haki the kid was showing was unheard of. Testing Aokiji smothered the haki leaking from him, the sudden stop on the faucet a skill only those most skilled in haki could maneuver, but the boy followed suit the power instantly pulling from the air.  

“Interesting” Kuzan muttered.  “Your grandfather taught you well.”   

“It was my Dad actually.” Luffy grinned at the shock on Kuzan’s face not bothering to explain he wasn’t referring to Dragon,   

 “Regardless you’re skill you keep her around you’ll only end like the others.” Aokiji smiled lazily as he raised a hand to point at Robin. “She’s a curse you know.”   

Luffy tilted his head evaluating. “Is it a curse to be hunted as a child by a bunch of adults?”  

Robin gasped at Luffy’s calm statement, fear surrounding her at being called out by a marine, the cruel memory of everyone who had ever cared for her being slaughtered.   

“Maybe you think its extreme, but that one’s got people killed.”  A brow raised watching the rubber boy seemingly unaffected by the marines words.    

Robin shivered at the ice in his tone, the familiar razor sharp guilt filling her.  

“No, you’re people killed people and blamed her.” Luffy’s tone for the first time was dark.  

“A shame, you seem promising, but, if your determined to keep her around you’ll find yourself cut short.” Kuzan gave a lazy smile “Perhaps I can help you out.”   

With a slow shrug a wave of ice headed Robins way, Luffy instantly springing up to move her out of the way. As he weaved his way around Kuzans consistent blasts of ice he called for his crew to retreat. Eventually Aokiji shrugged stopping his assault, impressed at how easily the rubber boy had avoided him, surprised that no assault had come in return.  

“Fine.” Kuzan sighed. “I only wanted to give you a chance at your goal, I owe your grandfather that much. You impress me I’d almost think you could survive Nico Robin, of course if it hadn’t been for CP9.”  

Robin went ridged beneath Luffys hands.  

Luffy knew he had to play dumb that the upcoming event were important for the strawhats so even though it hurt not to comfort hi ls Robin he put a confused expression on his face.   

“I’m not afraid of 9 sea people!” He shouted. “If your going to keep threatening us then fight me!”   

Kuzan chuckled. “Not yet straw hat, later I’m sure… but for now I’m on vacation.” With a yawn Kuzan lay where he sat curling up and going to sleep.  

“Luffy.” Robins voice was quiet and unsure as she put a hand on the rubber boys shoulder. “We should go, before he changes his mind.”  

Luffy looked to Robin nodding his agreement before they made their way to the Merry both preparing them selves for what was ahead.  

Chapter Text

Usopp blinked his heavy eyes around, groggy as his brain stirred aroused from his slumber. Blearily he looked into the sunken tired eyes of his captain as he silently motioned for the Snipper to follow him.

Groaning quietly to himself he wriggled out from under Nami’s iron grip, the navigators’ hands instantly coming to grab around the crew doctor snuggling into his fur in her sleep. He looked to Zoro whose gaze met his, eyes shooting knowingly to where the captain stood illuminated in the light awaiting the sniper, before turning around to instantly fall back to sleep.

With a practised step Usopp made his way around the pile of bodies, his step automatically raising to move over the spot their cook normally claimed, saddened to realise it was still empty, a gap made wider still by Robin curling up in the corner.

Their newest member had been steadily demolishing the walls she kept between them but that had all ended on Long Ring Long Land.

Quietly making his way on to the deck Usopps jaw dropped as he took in the sight in front of him, his Captain sat facing away from him bathed in the moonlight an oddly familiar figure stood before him shrouded in darkness a hammer held in its hand.

Usopp heard the ghost of a voice in his head a promise from a friend to carry them a little longer.

Luffy turned a sad guilty smile on his face.

“Usopp, come join us.” Luffy beckoned his voice softly carrying on the wind.

Gingerly Usopp stepped forward coming to a halt as the figures face came into view, a call to his heart from his beloved ship.

“M-merry?” Usopp questioned, not quite believing his eyes.

“I told you not to worry Usopp, I can carry you all a little longer.” Merry’s voice was like bells.

“Is it really you Merry?” Usopp looked from the figure to his Captain noticing for the first time the tears streaming down Luffy's face.

The figure followed Usopps gaze. “Don’t cry Captain, it’s okay.” The gentle chiming of Merry’s voice rang on the air.

Luffy smiled brokenly, his lips wobbling in his pain.

“What’s going on?” Usopp asked concerned glancing between the visage of the ship and his Captain.

“’Merry’s sick Usopp.” Luffy’s voice landed like a stone in Usopps stomach, he knew, of course he knew, how could he not? But it was Merry, the ship that took them to the skies.

“Its okay Captain, I’ve had the best adventures with you all.”

“It’ll be okay, we’ve got the gold, we are going to fix it right Captain? You’ll be okay Merry you will see!” Usopp pleaded with the figure, begging his ship to not give up.

Merry smiled softly looking over their Captain and Sniper. “No matter what comes in the future just remember you were the best crew I could have asked for.”

Luffy closed his eyes tears falling harder as Usopp silently fell to his knees dread bubbling below the surface. “It’ll be okay Merry, I’ll fix it, I always do!”

Merry disappeared with the wind the ship rocking lightly as they weathered the waves onwards to their final port.

Luffy sat for a while allowing the grief to take over losing himself to the turmoil as Usopp also weathered the emotions raging within.

As the sun began to rise Luffy gathered his courage. “I need to know Usopp, can you let Merry rest with dignity if it comes to it?” Luffy’s eyes were red raw with his own pain as he met Usopps shocked gaze. “I will do everything in my power to save our ship, but I will not ask Merry to carry us to our graves, they deserve better.”

Usopp felt an icy chill, considering the Captains words. Touching the wood below, feeling the warmth of the ship, the acceptance of the end in Merry’s last word.  

“It won’t come to that Luffy, we will fix Merry!” Usopp gripped his hands in a fist determined.

Luffy smiled sadly. “I wish you were right Usopp.”

Slowly the captain rose, gingerly heading into the warmth of his crew, begging them to chase off the icy grip of foreboding about what was to come.

As he entered the darkness of the room Luffy could make out Zoro’s arm raised in an invitation to snuggle down into his warmth. Taking up the invite Luffy stretched his arms around to bring Nami and Chopper into him, silently missing the absence of the rest of the crew.

“Did it help?” Zoro whispered into his Captains ear, careful to not be overheard.

Luffy shrugged, emotionally wrung out. Usopp seemed as stubborn to Merry’s fate as he had been the first time around, Robin was still silently pulling away, a fool’s errand to protect the only crew she had cared for, but now Sanji was also distant. Luffy felt like he had only made things worse, and they were about to approach there first real steps against the world government, and he had never felt more unprepared.

It was late afternoon before they pulled up on Shift Station, Kokoro as entertaining as she had been the first time around. Cackling and drinking as she explained the workings of the sea train and the town it lead to. It was only his own relationship with grief that allowed him to see past the carefree exterior to the suffering within, but still she protected her granddaughter from it as he tried to with his crew.

Luffy grinned acting as casual as he could as he jovially exclaimed they would be going onwards to find a shipwright and repairs for Merry, he saw Kokoro’s eyes narrow slightly as he spoke calculating the boy in front of her before once more gifting them with a letter of recommendation.

It seemed wrong as they sailed into water 7, the seas were to peaceful, the faces too friendly as they arrive. A small seaborn town hiding a dark underbelly they would soon fall so deeply into. The weight on Luffy's chest grew ever more heavy as the crew quickly decided to split to get everything they need done. Luffy giving Robin a desperate hug before they disembarked, guilt clouding over him that he was letting her walk into a trap. One that would lead to her plea that she wanted to die, Luffy knew that mindset, it was something he wouldn't wish on his worst enemy, but he had to allow the ghosts of the government to do that to his family. 

Luffy couldn't control his haki from spreading out across the country as they walked away. Each step harder then the last the further he got from his Archaeologist. He could sense strong powers coming from the undercover agents, not yet strong enough to hide their signatures Luffy could feel them, waiting for their chance to strike. He gave a small smile despite his pain as he felt Franky for the first time in this life. A small reminder that no matter the pain they were about to endure they would succeed and come out stronger with another member returned to him.

Luffy kept his haki open as they exchanged their gold for money each taking ownership of a bag of cash, he was confident his suppression was strong enough to remain unnoticed even as they met with the undercover enemy. He allowed Nami to take the lead, not trusting his strength to keep his composure if he had to speak.

A lump formed in his throat as they left Usopp outside on the ship port with the cash knowing what was to come. He shook with every step he took forward, his brain and body fighting, demanding he protect his Nakama. This was the hardest challenge to date, letting his crew fall so they could grow stronger. From the beginning he knew he could not save his crew from every pain, that the events here had been important. Luffy felt every hit as Franky’s crew attacked Usopp, his haki punishing him from his inaction, begging him to interfere. Each hit on his sniper preventable if Luffy had only changed the circumstances of this visit, but it was important that they stayed close to the original timeline, that Franky got their money, for Sunny.

Nami noticed her captain’s distraction as Iceburg gave the dreadful verdict about Merry. She could see him flinching, his arms twitching as they swung limp at his side, his eyes glassy and distant. Thinking her captain was reacting to the news that Merry was dying she wrapped her hand in the Captains own, willing him to have strength as she screamed at the gathered men in front of her, demanding they take it back.

“Nami…” Luffy’s voice was broken, small in a way that always sounded wrong but one the crew was used to. The voice that said their captain was holding on for dear life. “We need to go… now!”

Nami instantly nodded, picking up the money they had left on the floor as she rushed to keep up with her Captain who was walking briskly away almost bounding through the crowd.

The navigator wasn’t stupid; she knew that the captain had a darkness in his past. One that had left an invisible scar on him, something that made the captain ultra protective of his crew. Nami had long since learned to trust her captain fully and she would follow him to the end of the world.

Luffy led them to an alley, a whine escaping him at the sight before him. Last time around Luffy had only seen Usopp after the second battle, he hadn’t known how bad he had been when Nami found him. Already so broken, but still he had fought through the pain to try and confront his attackers, for his Nakama, for Merry. He thought back the red in his eyes, no matter what the darkness inside him whispered he couldn’t right this wrong. The urge to seek revenge on those who hurt what was his was strong, but this was Franky’s family too, no matter how lost they were Luffy couldn’t rip them apart.

“Usopp!” Nami called out falling to her knees at Usopps side. “What happened?”

Usopp blinked up looking around his guilty eyes meeting those of his captain. “I let you down… I let Merry down.” He sobbed.

“No Usopp, never!” Luffy promised coming down to cradle his sniper’s head. “We left you alone, we let you down.”

“I’m sorry Usopp” Nami sobbed. “We should have stayed with you.”

“C..captain I’m going to get back our money… for Merry.” Usopp promised struggling to his feet.

“It’s okay Usopp, you’re hurt we should go to Chopper.”

“We need that money, Merry needs it.”

“It won’t help Usopp, I’m sorry.” Luffy shut his eyes tears running down his face.

“What are you saying?” Usopp turned, forgetting his pain and wounds as he looked to his Captain still on the alley floor pain etched on his face.

“He’s right Usopp, Merry, they’re dying.” Nami sat back dejected as Luffy’s hands came up to pull at his hair, the pain internally needing an external outlet.

Usopp looked to them, he could see the pain written clearly on their faces. He had shared a bed with them both for months now, had seen them after nightmares. He knew what grief looked like on their faces, and this was it. He could hear Merry’s voice, the promise to last a little longer, the acceptance the end was coming. Finally he understood, the money wasn’t important anymore, they couldn’t save Merry.

They huddled in the alley, each allowing a moment for the grief to set, giving each other company as they fell apart in secret, where Merry couldn’t see it. Eventually they knew they had to move already they had received a few odd looks from passers-by and Usopp needed his wounds looked at by Chopper. Gingerly Luffy and Nami supported Usopp to their ship, all of them pausing to look at Merry in the dimming sun as they approached, each stuck in their thoughts that approach could be their last.

As they approached Luffy could sense with his Haki the others were already onboard each tense except their Archaeologist who was currently experiencing fear somewhere in the depths of the town.

Sanji came up from the depths he had hidden himself into the deck of Merry to find himself alone with Zoro. Instantly he panicked, his mind whiting out as his mouth made excuses for him to leave, he belated noticed how the swordsman barely acknowledged him as he made his leave. Things had been hard for the chef since that night on the deck, one moment with that stupid green haired marimo had made him question everything, something he was not quite ready to do.

As a child Sanji had always been the different one, weaker and more sensitive than his siblings. The mistake, defective. The only people who had shown him care was his mother and his sister. Then he had met Zeff, the man who had raised him, given a leg for him. Trained him in the art of being human, not just a broken weapon.

The restaurant had been filled of guys who had toughened him up, taught him what it was to be a man.

He could not let Zeff down, he couldn’t prove his father right, he refused. He thought about the challenge at Long Ring Long Land, and how his personal feelings had put the crew in danger. They had almost lost Chopper; he had put them at risk because he couldn’t fix his brain.

Zoro had been fine after the incident, as in control and aloof as he always had been, but Sanji couldn’t cope. At first Nami had been at his side supporting him from whatever bullheadedness the swordsman had done, but as time wore on his lovely Nami patience had worn thin, he could see her rolling her eyes as he settled down into the quarters that the Captain had once shared with the swordsman. 

He couldn't help but obsess over his failure, how he had let his own mind affect the crew. He could see it on the Captain, a pain that hadn't faded since Long Ring Long Land, a tension that had spread through out the crew and only grew deeper the closer they got to land. 

Sanji was distracted from his thoughts at the sight of Robin ducking out of sight, what a beautiful distraction from his thoughts, quickening his pace he called out to his crew mate, concern blossoming as she disappeared into nothingness.

After running into Chopper the two decided to hurry back to merry in the hope they would find Robin safe and sound on board and that the dread they both had growing within was all for nothing. When they got on board what they found instead was a morose Swordsman who explained about the visit he had received and Merry diagnosis.

Sanji gulped, he had grown up on a ship around pirates, he knew there was nothing to be done against time herself.

He heard as the Captain returned to his ship, the noise of him and Nami half carrying a limp Usopp rousing them all. Chopper instantly jumped into action fluttering around attending to Usopp.

“What happened?” Sanji demanded, concern blooming further, so far this town seemed to be a cursed trip for the straw hats.

Luffy waited until Usopp was out of ear shot, he did not need the sniper to overhear them and get back into his own head.

“He was attacked, a local gang, they took our money.” Luffy muttered keeping his voice low.

“What!” Sanji shouted. “You got it back though right?”

“No… there’s more important things we have to deal with right now.” Luffy kept his voice low, oddly serious.

“More important, they took our money, hurt our Sniper!” Sanji snapped. "For all we know they have Robin as well!"

"They don't have Robin!" 

"Where is she then, she's missing, our Sniper is all beat up by a gang of thugs, and you what, let them go?" Sanji's anger lashed out the wind reacting unnoticed by the chef.

Luffy looked at Sanji, could see the tension brewing within, ready to snap. Could feel the air moving around them as Sanji pulsed with power, haki just out of reach dancing beneath the chefs skin.  He understood, he also wanted to hurt those who hurt his Namaka, but he couldn’t trust himself not to go to far.

“You’ll find them at a warehouse by the docks; they go by the Franky family.” Luffy let out a breath, trusting that his crew wouldn't go to far just enough to make them regret there actions. “Take Zoro with you and Sanji, be careful." 

Sanji grunted anger simmering down, no longer boiling over. Glancing out of the corner of his eyes as Zoro approached nodding once at his Captain as he withdrew his swords.

Luffy watched them go hoping he hadn't made a mistake, he could feel Sanji's observation haki blooming. The stress and tension of the last few weeks taking its toll on Sanji, the guilt of almost losing Chopper compounding the issue. He remembered Kobi how his haki had awoken on a battlefield causing the pink haired boy pain as his mind struggled to comprehend the awoken power. Haki awoken under stress was powerful and relentless causing pain to the mind wielding it, he knew his chef could handle it but he hoped for a better awaking for his friend. 

Luffy sat with Usopp as he recovered, eyes closed, haki spread thin as he concentrated on tracking Robin as she made her way to Iceburg’s manor. and Sanji and Zoro as they made a wreckage of Frankies warehouse. He reminded himself that physically they were okay even if mentally they were falling apart, his hand came up to pull at his hair trying to distract himself from the pain inside. 

“I’m sorry I’m so weak Captain, you could do so much better than a wimp like me.” Usopp croaked to his captain voice small and pained, glancing out of bandages to look guiltily at the rubber boy.

Luffy opened his eyes, meeting his snipers gaze seriously, focusing only on this moment. “You are not weak Usopp, you are the worlds greatest Sniper. You may not be as strong as me or Zoro or Sanji, but you are smart and fast. I wish you could see how important you are Usopp, you made Nami’s weapon and yours. The way you have used those dials from Skypiea. There is no one I would rather have at my side!”

Usopps eyes filled with tears as Luffy’s arms wrapped around him holding him close as he cried.

“I love you Usopp, the worlds greatest sniper!” Luffy stroked Usopps hair as he fell into a fitful sleep exhausted from the emotional turmoil of the day. Luffy held him close as he thought of how close they had come to loosing the heart of the crew the first time around, how Luffy’s own brashness had brushed over Usopps insecurities allowing them to  boil over till it exploded, never again would Luffy allow his sniper to not see his worth.