Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Wake up…

Wake up boy…

It's finally time…

Your body has recovered...

it's time to wake up…

Your story isn't over…

…so wake up boy…

On a small island, a group of fisherman were hauling in their latest catch.

"Pull harder men! I think we got a nice big haul!" One of the fisherman shouted. He along with 4 other men were trying to pull in their net onto their dock, but noticed how heavier it was from their usual get.

"What in the world did we catch? This seems heavier…urghh…than usual…" Another fisherman noticed.

"Shut up and keep pulling! We need another man here!" As requested by the head fisherman, a white haired and older man who had a anchor tattoo on his left shoulder, another man came to help.

Together, the five of them were just enough to pull in the entire net of fish. Some fell on their buts from the force as they panted.

"Man that was tougher than usual. Did we catch a Sea King or something?" A tall fisherman asked while catching his breath.

"Idiot…a Sea King would have been much heavier." A shorter, but more muscular fisherman replied while standing up.

"I was exaggerating." The two now stood side by side as they observed the net filled with many fish.

"Enough of your squabbling and start unpacking the net." The white haired older boss of the fisherman told his employees.

"Yes, sir." They responded and began to move the net around.

"Ummm…Boss…" A third fisherman called out to the older man from the other side of the net. He was an average size man with a bald head and was staring down at something. "I think I found out why it was heavy…"

"Huh, what are you babbling about?" The older fisherman walked to him and looked down. "Oh…" Attached to the net was a naked body of a man. He was on his chest, covering his lower extremities. The John Doe had long black hair that covered most of his back and arms and they noticed he also had a bushy beard that covered most of his face. The head fisherman crouched down to try to get a good look of his eyes, but his bangs were too long and shielded them from view.

"What do we do?" The fisherman who discovered the naked body asked.

"Go get a Doctor. I don't know who this guy is, but he doesn't look dead." He replied, noticing the man's breathing. "Seems to be breathing okay, so it doesn't look like his lungs is full of water. In any case, I can't have some naked fool contaminate our fish. So hurry up!"

"Right away!" His subordinate ran into town to fetch the doctor. The Boss fisherman stood up and went to grab a piece of cloth and covered the man's lower body.

"Hey! You two! Hold on with the fish. Help me move this man!" He ordered them.

"Man?"

"What are you talking about, Boss?" The two went over and their eyes widened when they saw the naked man. "What the...?"

"Well, that explains why the net was so heavy." The other fisherman responded as he saw the man's hand tied around their net.

"Stop staring and help me move him!" Their Boss yelled. They both rushed to help their boss. One untying the mystery man's hand from the net and the other, with the Boss, dragging his body away from it once he got loose. They got him on his back and the fisherman had a good look of him. While his face was still covered by his wet hair and beard, they noticed a large scar on his chest.

"Waahh...that scar looked like it hurt..." One of the Fisherman stated. The Boss stared at the scar, finding it very familiar, but he couldn't place it.

The fisherman waited patiently until their friend came back with a female doctor in tow. "Boss! I brought the doctor!"

"About time." The white haired man replied, a bit annoyed with how long it took. "Every minute we waste here, the more rotten our fish get!"

"You don't have to be so rude!" The female Doctor spoke. She had long blond hair, thin body, large bust and a white bandanna on her head. A young woman in her early 30s, She wore a yellow dress and a white apron as she held a bag with a red plus on it. "So, where is this mystery man of yours?"

"Right here." He pointed to him. "He was butt naked when we found him." He added.

The doctor got down on her knees and took out a stethoscope to check the man's heartbeat. She placed the cold metal onto his chest and listened for his heart beat. Once she heard his heart beat, she counted how many beats he had in 15 seconds to make sure there was no issue with an accelerated heart rate. However, everything came back normal.

"He seems to be okay at least, but I need to bring him back to my place to exam any wounds on his body. Can I ask a couple of your men for help?" She asked the older man.

"Fine. Hey, you two, help bring this man to the doctor's place, now!" The two fisherman from before nodded and ran over. One of them picked up the man from his feet and the other by his shoulders.

"This way." The doctor told them and they followed her back to her office.

~OP~

The Doctor jotted down her notes as she observed the mystery man's body for any wounds. "Nothing here..." She mumbled.

"Nothing here too, Okaa-san." The doctor turned her head to see her daughter look over the man's feet.

"Thank you, Cheryl." She jotted down her daughter's observation. Cheryl saluted her mom before examining his other foot.

The two ran this clinic as a Mother and Daughter office. The doctor's daughter, Cheryl, a nine year old girl, dreamed of being a great doctor like her mother. She had similar blond hair as her mother, but had her hair braided behind her. She wore a similar dress and apron combo like her mother. Cheryl was a very well mannered girl, who helped around the house and with her patients, learning through her mother's teachings. Her mother was proud of her wanting to be just like her and always welcomed her help. She was already ahead of her knowledge of medicine than she was at that age and she couldn't be prouder.

The doctor, who's name tag said, Mary, looked from her clipboard to the man's body and saw how much wear and tear his body had. Whoever this man was, he had been through a lot. Not only that, but he was really thin and seemed to be malnourished. She didn't know how long he was just floating out there in the sea, but she was surprised that he was still alive.

The mother and daughter duo finished examining his body and aside from the scars, he didn't seem to have any sort of injury. She sighed in relief. "Okaa-san, what do we do now?" Cheryl asked her mom, looking for her next task.

"Well, it's a good thing he doesn't have any injuries. We can only really wait until he wakes up, but we also need to feed him. He's too thin and malnourished, so let's go make him something to feed him." She told her daughter.

"Yosh!" She saluted, earning a smile from her mother.

They left to make some soup before returning to the patient's room. "Alright, here you go, Cheryl. Just slowly feed him the soup and make sure he swallows by tilting his head, okay?" Her daughter saluted once again before taking the bow of soup from her. She turned around to begin her new task, when she was suddenly surprised by the man's awakening.

"Ahh!" He sat up, surprising her enough to make Cheryl scream and drop the bowl of soup onto the floor.

Mary heard her daughter's scream and the bowl crashing and whipped around in an instant, preparing to protect her daughter. She saw her daughter on the floor, with the bowl shattered and the soup in a puddle on the floor. "Cheryl!" She then looked up from her daughter and saw that the mystery man woke up. He was sitting on the bed, his face covered by his beard and bangs. With her motherly instincts, she rushed over and stood in front of her daughter to protect her, in case the man posed a threat.

Cheryl grabbed her mom's dress and peeked over at the man who stayed still. They both then saw his nose twitch, as if he was smelling something. They then heard a loud grumble sound, which origins seemed to have come from the man's stomach. The man then slumped his shoulders and his tongue stuck out from his mouth as he finally spoke.

"Fooood...I need foooooood..." He spoke weakly. The two girls blinked at the man in surprise. They were not expecting him to wake up so quickly and over the smell of some nutritional soup they prepared for him. He began sniffing again and turned in the direction of the puddle of soup on the floor. "...foood..." He groaned and started to move towards the liquid. The two were surprised when he cupped some of the soup off the floor and was trying to put it into his mouth.

"Don't do that!" The doctor yelled, smacking his hands away before he could drink it. The man stared at his hands before looking at the soup that splashed on the floor near him. His stomach grumbled again.

"Foood..." He repeated again.

"Geez, don't eat food off the floor. You could get sick. I'll make you some food so go back to the bed." The man finally recognized that there was someone else here. He looked up and looked through his bangs at the woman who was scolding him.

"Fooooddd..."

"I'm not food!" She exclaimed. "Just get to the bed already! We'll bring you food!" The man grunted, but stayed in place on the floor. Cheryl looked at the man with curious eyes. He was still naked, but a blanket covered his lower region. She was able to get a good look at how thin his body was as well as the scar that made up a majority of his chest. "Cheryl. Go to the pantry and get some of the bread and meat we have."

"Meaaaattt..." The man groaned loudly.

"Well, it looks like our mystery patient likes meat. Alright, we'll get the food soon so get to the bed!" Mary told him. The man just stayed still, almost as if he wasn't paying attention. Mary sighed and looked at her daughter. Cheryl saluted her and ran out of the room to fetch the food her mother asked for.

When she came back with a plate of food, she didn't have a chance to get close to the man as to both her and her mother's surprise, the man stretched his arms, grabbing the meat and whipping it back to himself and started to devour it.

"Kyaaaaahhhhh!" Cheryl screamed in shock as she threw the plate of food up into the air.

Mary was just surprised. She did not expect the mystery man to have a devil fruit. She wad seen several patients with devil fruits over the years, so it didn't surprise her that much, but she never expected this John Doe to have one., especially since he was found in the water. The plate of food crashed down and splattered all over the floor. However, the man didn't care and just kept on devouring the food, stretching his arms to grab all the other food that was now on the floor.

"Oi! Don't eat the food off the flo-oh whatever..." As a doctor, she did not want him to eat anything off the dirty floor, but she gave up when he just continued to stretch his arms to grab as much food as possible.

Cheryl watched with a mix of shock, horror and bewilderment as she witnessed her first devil fruit user. She knew she would come across them at some point, but she didn't expect it today.

The man finished all the food before letting out a burp. Mary looked at him in slight disgust at his manenrs. The man looked around the room, finally noticing where he was before landing them on the other two people in the room. "Who are you?"

"I should be asking you!" Mary yelled at him before sighing. She probably should have done a thorough check of his brain.

"Me? I'm..." The man paused as he looked like he was pondering something. "...I...I don't know." Mary looked at him in surprise.

"You don't know your name?" The man shook his head. "What about where you came from?" He shook again. "Do you remember anything?"

"No..." He replied. "I am hungry though..."

"You just ate!" She sighed and shook her head at his gluttonous behavior. Cheryl could only watch in fascination from behind her mom. The man looked at her and they both made eye contact. Cheryl scooted closer to her mom, slightly scared of the man, but once she saw his toothy grin, she found herself relaxing. There was something about his smile that seemed to have calmed her down. It was such a strange feeling. "If you can't remember anything...then that means you must be suffering from amnesia."

"Amneza? What's that?" He repeated, completely butchering the word.

"Amnesia." She corrected him. "You lost your memory."

"Ehhh...you got any more food?"

"Oi, oi..." She sighed. She looked down at her daughter and patted her on her head. "Cheryl, go get more food, okay?" Cheryl hesitated for a bit before saluting her mom and heading to get more food. Mary then turned back to the man and placed her fists on her hips. "I don't know who you are, but you are my patient. I'll keep you here until your body is at full strength, but I can't do much about your memory."

"Huh? Why not?" He asked.

"Amnesia isn't something any medicine can really fix. You must have hit your head to hard and it jumbled your brain to the point you lost your memory. It can come back, but sometimes it doesn't. There's nothing I can do. Only time will tell if you get your memory back." She explained to him. She looked back at him and saw him sleeping with a bubble coming out of his nose. "WOULD YOU LISTEN TO ME!?" She shouted as the bubble popped and he woke up.

"Is the food ready?" He asked, making the doctor sigh at her new patient.

"Geez...what kind of person is this?" She placed a hand to her head, rubbing it to try and prevent the upcoming headache.

"I'm back!" Cheryl announced and brought a new plate of food. The man grinned and stretched his arm out to grab another piece of food. Cheryl, this time, held her composure as the man retracted his arm. However, he didn't eat the food.

"Hm? What's wrong?" Mary asked him.

"MY ARM STRETCHED!" He suddenly shouted in complete horror.

"YOU JUST NOTICED!" The mother and daughter duo both yelled at him.

"W-What is going on?" He asked looking at his hands, sneaking a bite while he did so.

"You ate a devil fruit." Mary told him.

"A devil fruit?" What's that? Is it tasty?"

"It's a fruit that gives people powers. Your power seem to be stretching. As for the taste, I don't know, but I heard that they don't taste great." She answered his question as he chowed down on the plate Cheryl put in front of him.

"I see...so a mystery fruit..." Mary sighed in exasperation.

"Yeah...yeah..." She was so bewildered by the man. He looked like he was in his mid-20's, but he talked like he was sometimes a kid. She looked over at daughter and saw that she became intrigued by the man and giggled a bit with the way he was eating his food. 'Well..at least he looks harmless...' She walked over to a closet and opened it. Inside was a row of clothing she kept for her patients in case they needed clothing and grabbed something for the man. She grabbed a plain white shirt and short, blue jeans. She walked back, seeing the man finished eating and tossed him the clothes. "Here are some clothes. There is a shower in the room over there so clean yourself up and meet me in the dining room past that door." She told him, pointing to a door to their right that lead to the bathroom and then a door behind her that lead to their living quarters.

"Okay! Thank you." He grinned.

Mary was slightly surprised when she felt herself calm down from his grin. There was something about his grin that made her feel calm and a bit...joyful? She didn't get it, but shrugged it off. "Hai, hai. Cheryl, let's go." She told her daughter. Cheryl saluted the man before following her mom out, leaving the man alone.

The man looked around the room and then at the clothing he was given. He stood up as the blanket fell off of him and did as he was told. He went to the bath and took a shower. He noticed he felt weak when the water touched him, but washed himself regardless.

He had no idea who he was or what he was. He couldn't remember his name, couldn't remember anything. It worried him a bit, but not too much. He believed Mary that his memory could come back with some time so he hoped on that. He finished washing himself and dried himself with a towel before putting on the clothes she gave him. They felt comfortable and somehow...familiar. However, he couldn't figure out why. He tugged on his shirt and felt it being a little out of place, but felt some familiarity with the jeans.

He shrugged and looked at himself in the mirror. He noticed his long hair and didn't really feel comfortable with it. He wanted to cut it, but he didn't know how. His beard also felt itchy and it annoyed him. He did notice a small scar just under his left eye and touched it slightly. 'Cool...' He simply thought and then left the bathroom.

When he left, he smelled some good food and grinned. He merrily made his way out of the the patient room and arrived at the kitchen where Mary was cooking some sort of soup. Cheryl was already sitting at a table having her lunch. The man grinned and walked to the table and sat down, hoping and expecting some food.

Cheryl watched him sit down and stared at him as he swayed back and forth with a toothy grin on his face. She slowly began to imitate him and when Mary walked into the dining room, she saw both of them swaying back and forth with wide grins on their faces. She sighed, but was glad that her daughter was at least having fun with whoever this man was.

She approached him and he looked at her, expecting more food. "Sorry, no more food until later." He was shocked by this before slouching and frowning. "Why don't we go for a walk? Who knows, maybe you might remember something." The man perked up and nodded.

"That sounds like fun!" Mary did not understand him. He had so much energy for a man who was almost dying from malnourishment and yet he was ready to go out and explore. Cheryl also seemed to like the idea and hopped up and down in her seat with excitement. Mary couldn't help but smile at her daughter, giving her a head pat.

"Alright, let's go!"

~OP~

The trio decided to give the man a tour of the town. It was a small town, but it was filled with lively people. Though, Mary soon found out that the most lively person of them all was her own patient. "Does he ever slow down?" She wondered as the man and her daughter ran around, her showing the man everything the town had to offer.

"Hello, Mary, my dear." Mary turned around to see a older woman wearing a pink dress and apron with a small bonnet on her head. She was carrying a bag of groceries as she approached the young doctor.

"Oh, hello, Kanna." She smiled at the woman who she came to know very well ever since she moved to this town with her daughter.

"Wonderful day we are having." The larger woman smiled as she stopped next to Mary. "Hm? Who is that with Cheryl-chan?" She asked, noticing the man.

"A patient. Apparently, your husband fished him out from the water when they hauled in their catch earlier today." She explained, watching to make sure the two didn't leave their sight.

"I see...I thought he might have been your new boyfriend." Mary blushed and outright denied the claim.

"Don't be ridiculous. I don't have any interests with my patients. Besides, you don't know him. He's a bit childish." She told her. "Also, not when Cheryl still misses her dad."

Kanna frowned. "Oh dear. I'm so sorry. It must have been hard these past 7 years. Ever since that terrible war." Mary frowned and looked down at the cobble stones that made up the road. Mary looked up and watched as her daughter and the mystery man were running around gleefully and having a lot of fun while doing so. She smiled realizing just how glad she was that her daughter could live her life without much worry.

"Yeah...then again its in the past now. I can't dwell on it. I have to look to the future, especially for Cheryl." Kanna smiled at her.

"Ah, the children are the future of course. Still, that war...changed so much of the world. I just hope at the end of the day, we can truly live in the peace we want." Kanna spoke hopefully for this continued peaceful life.

Mary remembered the war, it was a terrible war between a large group of pirates and the World Government. All for this silly treasure that Gold Roger proclaimed existed. She hated pirates, but she knew the truth of what happened. "I really don't like pirates, but I'm not foolish to think if it wasn't for them, who knows where our world would be right now." She muttered as she remembered the war and how the old World Government almost destroyed the entire planet. To think, that a group of pirates managed to put a stop to their plan. Granted, she didn't trust the current one yet, but she would be a fool to think they were anything like the old.

"Pirates?" Both woman noticed the mystery man appear before them and stared at the two through his bangs.

"Right, you don't what happened." Mary sighed. She didn't want to think about those memories. However, she felt she owed it to the man. Who knows, maybe it might jog his memory.

"About seven ye-"

"KYAAAAAHHH!" Everyone paused what they were doing when they heard that scream. Mary's eyes widened as she recognized the voice immediately. With her motherly instincts, she rushed towards the sound of the voice and her eyes widened in horror. Cheryl was grabbed by her dress by someone with a brown coat, dirty and stained beige shirt, brown pants and brown boots. His face was covered in bruises and dirt and parts of his hair was completely gone, almost bald except for a few patches here and there.

"You dare stand in my way kid? Do you know who I am!?" Cheryl started crying as the man brought her close to his face. "I am a Celestial Dragon! You should bow down before me!"

Mary gritted her teeth. This was one of the scumbags that used to be a Celestial Dragon. Keepers of the highest order of the former World Government. She knew and heard about the way they did things and how poorly they treated people. She hated them. As a doctor who wanted to help people, they treated humans like the scum of the earth. It was also because of them that her husband...she shook her head. She didn't have time to bring up old memories. She needed to save her daughter.

"Let her go!" She shouted and approached the man.

"Okaa-san..." Cheryl had tears in her eyes as she pleaded for help from her mom. Mary felt her heart shatter at the look her daughter was giving her. She wanted to beat the crap out of this so called 'former' Celestial Dragon. Now that they didn't have any authority to do anything, she finally was going to have her opportunity.

"Huh? She's your mother? Hahahaha! What a low life scum! You should be begging on your knees if you want me to hand your daughter over!" He laughed at her face. She hated his face so much.

"I said let her go!" She shouted again.

"How dare you yell at me!? Know your place you bottom dweller!" He shouted, pointing a sword at Mary. Mary scowled at him as she clenched her fists.

"The only bottom dweller I see is you." Mary responded vehemently. "I said let go of her."

"Huh!? You dare disrespect me! I'll show you, you worthless hag!" He then slammed Cheryl down to the ground.

"Kyaah!"

"Cheryl!" Mary screamed in fear as her daughter hit the pavement hard. She turned her eyes at the man and was ready to tackle him when he suddenly pointed a gun at Cheryl. "Wait!"

"One move and this little girl gets shot. You don't want her to die, no?" Mary gritted her teeth in anger. All the townsfolk who were ready to charge with Mary froze too. This was a scummy move by the fallen 'dragon'. "All of you should be kneeling before me, grovelling, enslaved to me. You are all pathetic and nobodies! You all should be honored to serve me! That's right! I'll make this town my new kingdom and you'll all work under me as my Slaves!"

The town all looked at him with anger. They couldn't believe a former Celestial Dragon was here in their town. They were a small town on a small island not too far off from Sabaody Archipelago. They didn't have anything of value to showcase for anyone to really rob them, but to people like a former Celestial Dragon, they didn't care about any of that.

They felt so weak and useless as long as he had the gun pointed at Cheryl. Cheryl stared at the gun in fear as she continued to cry. "Help me..."

Mary bit her bottom lip. She wanted to rush forward and save her daughter, but she also knew the man was dangerous. A man that lost everything and had nothing left to lose. She couldn't risk riling him up or scaring him enough to press the trigger on the gun. She hated that she was basically hopeless.

"Oi..." She snapped her head to her right as the mystery man stood next to her. He had his eyes covered behind his bangs, the mood around him changing drastically. She no longer felt that free spirited vibe from him. No, it was still there, but faint. Yet, the feeling she was getting from him was one of anger. "What are you doing?" He asked the former Celestial Dragon.

"Huh?" He turned to face the man who spoke back to him. "How dare you speak to me, you filthy and pathetic scum!" He barked back as he glared at him. "Say one more thing and I'll blow this kid's head right off her body." He threatened as the townsfolk and Mary glared daggers at him.

The man stayed still. He felt his blood boil in anger. He looked down to see the young girl with tears in her eyes and a couple of bruises on his body. It only made him pissed off. He then turned to the former Celestial Dragon and glared daggers at him. Before Mary could blink, the man appeared in front of the Celestial Dragon and delivered a punch so hard, the man flew straight into a food cart, destroying it. A few teeth fell to the ground in front of him as the man who hurt Cheryl was knocked out unconscious.

Everyone was shocked. Mary couldn't believe what she saw. The mystery man managed to knock out the scumbag who was trying to hurt her daughter with such speed she couldn't even believe was possible. She looked from the crash site and then back to her patient.

However, she didn't stare for long as she remembered her daughter and ran towards her. Cheryl cried and ran towards her mother, crying in her arms. "Shhh...it's okay. Are you hurt? Don't worry the bad man won't hurt you anymore." She soothed her daughter, rubbing her back.

The townsfolk all were astonished by what they saw, but a few managed to regain their senses and went over to tie the former Celestial Dragon up with some rope.

The mystery man walked towards the two. "Are you okay, Cheryl?"

Cheryl pulled away from her mom's embrace and looked at her savior. With tears still streaming down her face, she gave him a nod.

"T-Thank you..." She whispered softly and then went to hug his leg. The man then gave her a wide toothy grin.

"That's good. I'm glad! Shishishi!" He laughed for the first time. Cheryl looked up at him with wide eyes. She then felt her face turning into a smile and grinned back at him. Mary was surprised by how quickly her daughter's frown turned to a smile. She looked at the man and wondered who exactly this person was. She stood up, looking at the man face to face.

She then lowered her head. "Thank you...thank you so much for saving my daughter!"

"You guys saved me and gave me food, it's the least I can do! Shishishishi!" He told her.

The doctor lifted her head and smiled at him. She didn't know who this person was, but she knew he was a kind person who saved her daughter. She trusted this person greatly and now wanted to help him regain his memory. She too wanted to know now who this man was. She was curious about one thing though.

"By the way, how did you do that? You were so fast. One moment you were next to me and then the next, that asshole was flown towards the cart." The man stared blankly at her.

He then responded. "I have no idea, shishishishi!"

She was slightly surprised by his answer. He still had amnesia, yet it felt like he did something he had done countless times before. Was it instincts? Muscle memory? Whatever it was, she was thankful regardless. He saved her daughter and that's what mattered.

"Well, it seems your memory is still not there, but your body might be remembering something. It'll probably come back soon, so don't worry. I'm sure you'll remember soon who you are." The man nodded and grinned.

"Un." Cheryl tugged on his jeans. The man looked down at her and grinned. Cheryl responded with her own grin. He picked her up and put her on top of his shoulders. "Yosh, let's go explore more!" He proclaimed with a salute in excitement.

She grinned widely at him mimicking her. "Yeah!" Cheryl imitated as the two ran in a random direction.

"Ah, wait a minute!" Mary called out as she ran after them.

The townsfolk all looked at them as they ran out of the square. Kanna smiled, relieved that Cheryl was okay. Her husband appeared soon and approached his wife.

"Kanna, what happened around here?" He asked as he had a bag of fish slung over his shoulder.

"Oh, Ken! There was a small scuffle, but it was resolved. The man you saved, he became a hero and saved little Cheryl from this nasty former Celestial Dragon." His wife explained to him.

"Ehhh..." He looked over to where the townsfolk were keeping an eye out on the unconscious CD. "I see...well I'm glad he was somewhat useful. Did you contact the marines?" He asked.

"We did, but they haven't shown up ye-"

"Excuse me. We received a call about an incident?" The husband and wife turned to meet the new person that arrived. He wore a marine outfit, however it was designed very differently from the previous outfit marines wore. Instead of white, it was a light green shaded outfit with a new logo that read New Marines Corp. He had pink hair and glasses that he had raised above his head. He wore an Admiral Cloak, signifying his powerful position in the New Marines, as well as the marine subordinates behind him, one being a girl with headphones over her head.

"My name is Admiral Coby. Can you please tell me what happened here?"

END

Chapter Text

The mystery man and Cheryl both laughed and continued to run around the town, enjoying the adventure they were on. Mary, Cheryl's mother and the man's doctor, did her best to keep up, but she was getting tired.

“How does he have so much energy.” She wondered. However, she couldn't help but smile as her daughter looked like she was having a lot of fun with him. It's been a while since she last saw her daughter laugh as much as this. Ever since her father was killed during the war 7 years ago, her daughter was a very introverted person. She stayed home a lot.

By spending time at home, she learned from her about being a doctor, but other than speaking with patients, she never really got out much to play with the other children. There was something about this man that just seemed to bring about the joyfulness out of not only her daughter, but surprisingly herself as well. After all, even she had a hard time getting back to normal after he husband's death. She seemed to feel lonely and wanted to spend her time with her daughter. It was the only thing that made her happy. She was slowly breaking out of it, but she still couldn't forget the pain of the loss of her beloved.

“Okaa-san! Can we buy some candy!”?” Mary lifted her head and saw her daughter waving her hand and pointed towards some candy for sale. She would normally refused, but when she saw the man look at her as if he wanted some too, she sighed.

“Alright, it's the least I can do.” She told him. She brought some candy and gave them to the two. “My thanks, for saving my daughter.” She told him. He looked joyful as he took the candy and gave her a toothy grin.

“Thank you!” Mary found herself blushing and turned her head to hide the embarrassing redness from her cheeks.

“D-Don't worry about it.” She told him.

“Hehehe...Okaa-san is embarrassed...” She heard Cheryl say and she felt her red cheeks get redder.

“I'm not!” The man only laughed before eating a piece of candy.

“Yummy!” He exclaimed and handed some candy to Cheryl who took it gleefully.

Mary looked at the two and felt a warm feeling in her chest. The scene reminded her of the time her husband would carry Cheryl the same was he was. She missed him dearly. She knew it was seven years, she still felt love for him, but maybe she really did need to move on. She eyes the man who was having a blast with her daughter and wondered if maybe this was the time to do so.

“Ummm...” She started,, but was interrupted when the New Marines approached the trio.

“Excuse me.” All three looked over to see the light green tinted outfits of the New Marines. There were only two of them, the Admiral who previously announced his name as Koby and the female marine commander under him. “We heard about the incident that happened at the town square. We hope you are all safe.”

Mary sighed. She hated that he interrupted her asking the mystery man to Dinner with her and Cheryl, but smiled at the marines. “Yes. We are fine.”

I see. That's good.” Koby responded with a smile. “Don't worry, we have taken in the man in question and will provide justice for his crimes.” He told her.

“I see. That's good. You know, I still don't trust you guys, but it's better than just letting that man roam free again.” Koby frowned a bit, but he understood her lack of confidence for the New Marines. It wasn't only seven years ago since the war happened and the reputation of any government body has weakened among normal civilians. Everyone discovered the true intentions of the previous World Government. Even Koby was left in shock that a powerful being was in control when the Government was supposed to be neutral to everyone.

It was a dark day, but he admitted that it was needed. If it was for a certain crew, no one would have known the truth.

“I agree.” Koby told her. “Thank you again. We will take it from here.” He told her as Mary nodded. “However, we do have a question.” The doctor raised an eyebrow. “We were told that during the incident, you're daughter was taken hostage, but was saved by someone who attacked the perpetrator. Is he perhaps...” Koby turned his attention away from Mary to the mystery man.

The black haired man paid no mind to what was happening and was happily chowing down on the candy and giving some to Cheryl. Koby stared at the man. There was something familiar about him, but he couldn't put his finger on it.

“Ah, yes. This is the man who saved my daughter.” Mary told him. “He currently is a patient of mine. he was found only earlier today with no memory of who he was. He has amnesia.” Koby looked back at Mary and felt sympathetic over the man's condition.

“I see. I'm sorry to hear that.” He looked back at the man and took a couple of steps forward and lowered his head a bit. The man looked over at him, tilting his head slightly. “Thank you, for saving these people. We of the New Marines, thank you for your help.”

“No problem, shishishishi!”

Time froze for Koby. His eyes widened as a big as saucers. He slowly began lifting his head up. His eyes stared and examined the face of the man that just spoke. He had a big toothy grin on his face. His beard and long hair covered most of it, but there was no way Koby would ever forget that grin. An image of a former friend, ally and rival flashed before the man's face and it looked like an almost exact replica of the man he once knew. A man he thought died seven years ago.

“Koby-san?” The female commander called out the Admiral's name, wondering if something was wrong with her Admiral and love interest.

“N-No way...it can't be...” He muttered. The commander, whose name was Hibari, raised an eyebrow at Koby and then looked over at the man he was staring at. She didn't notice anything particular about him, which made her more curious about Koby's reaction.

The mystery man stopped grinning and stared at Koby. He didn't know who this pink haired man was, but he did find his staring to be a little rude. “W-What?” Cheryl tilted her head on the man's shoulders, clueless about what any of this was about. Mary looked back and forth between the two and did notice the weird expression on the Admiral's face. To her, it looked like this Admiral knew who this mystery man was.

“Um...” She spoke. “Do you know him?” She asked Koby.

Koby gulped. He had conflicted thoughts. 'No...no...this can't be...this person couldn't be...no...' Koby wanted to believe this was who it was, but he also didn't want to wrong. There was no way the man standing before him was that person. The person he owed his career and dream to. No, he died seven years ago in the war. This person couldn't be him. However, everything about him was giving him hope. Hope that he thought he lost years ago. The same height, hair color, voice and the laugh. The very laugh he knew only belonged to one person. However, there was one way to find out. “I'm sorry...this might be a strange request, but...can I have a handshake?”

“Huh? Why?” The man asked, suspiciously.

“Please!” Koby suddenly raised his voice, surprising everyone.

“Koby...san...” Even Hibari was surprised by his reaction. She looked at Koby's jaw that had he was growing a small stubble out of, and saw it shaking.

Mary had no idea what was going on and looked over to the man. He looked back at her and she shrugged. “Up to you...” She told him. She was indeed curious however. If this man did know who her patient was, then it definitely would help him get his memories back. At least that's what she believed. Though, a small feeling in her chest also was afraid of the result.

“Hmmmm...” The mystery man looked back at Koby. He then handed the bag of candy to Cheryl and raised his arm to accept his request.

Koby felt his heart race. Sweat beaded down his face. He never felt so nervous. He was more nervous than he had ever been before. Not even during the war seven years ago was he this nervous. He gulped in anticipation and raised his own arm to give the man a handshake. If it was him, then he would also have that power. Their hands got closer and closer until they were just mere inches away.,

“Admiral!” Everyone jumped a little at the sudden yell from one of his subordinates and cursed him. He turned around and watched as one of the marines ran up to him and saluted. Cheryl saluted back playfully, which the man noticed and chuckled before saluting as well.

“What is it?” Koby asked the marine grunt.

“We received a call from the Fleet Admiral, he is requesting a transponder conference with you.” The grunt told him. Koby clicked his tongue in annoyance.

“I see. Very well.” He turned back to the man and eyed him. “I'm sorry. I apologize for the weird request. However, if you don't mind, I would like to meet you later tonight. There are some questions I wished to ask you.” The man tilted his head in confusion. Koby then turned to his doctor. “I apologize if this is intrusive, but would you mind if we joined you for dinner?”

Mary looked at her the Admiral with widened eyes. Even Hibari was shocked by Koby's question, feeling slightly jealous. Mary thought about it as she looked over at the man, who looked confused about the whole thing. She sighed. If this man knew his identity and could help him, then that would be the best choice for his health as her doctor. However, for her personally, she didn't want to happen. She actually became fond of him. With the way he was around Cheryl, she didn't want him to leave. What if Cheryl lost her smile again. She didn't want that to happen.

However, she knew in her heart what the correct choice was. “Fine. We would be glad to have you.”

Koby smiled and lowered his head. “Thank you. I greatly appreciate it!” He took a glance over at the man and lowered his head to him, before turning around and walking back. Hibari walked beside Koby and looked over at him.

“Koby-san...is everything alright?” Koby didn't answer for a few seconds.

“Maybe...but I won't know until tonight.” Koby responded. Hibari only looked at him questionably, however didn't pry too much into it. She would find out later that night anyway. Like hell she was going to leave Koby alone at some other woman's place.

“Well, that sure was strange.” The man spoke as Mary sighed and looked at him.

“Hey, are you sure you don't remember him?” The man shook his head.

“Nope.” He replied and went to grab another piece of candy from the bag. Cheryl giggled as she grabbed a piece of candy as well. Mary smiled at the two. Looks like she was going to have more people over for dinner.

~OP~

Mary and the mystery man walked back to her home, walking side by side as Cheryl fell asleep from all the excitement and was getting a piggyback ride. She was hugging him tightly as Mary smiled at the sight. The sun was setting and she had to admit, she had more fun today than she had in years. She looked over at the man who stared ahead and smiled at him. She didn't know why, but she could feel this glow, this light emitting from him that made her feel happy and joyful.

She didn't understand why she felt this way. All the years since her husband's death, she felt miserable, depressed and lost hope so many times. Yet, she kept on living for her daughter. Her daughter was her reason. She tried everything to make her happy, but even she had a hard time. They preoccupied themselves in their work so they kept themselves busy, but they never felt a great sense of joy or warmth until today.

She didn't know what caused this from the man, but she was grateful. He was such bright spot in their gray world. She didn't know she could thank him for everything he had done for them today. They spent all day together, going around town, meeting people, going to parks and playing. It was a wonderful day full of joy.

As they got closer to her clinic, she dreaded having the Admiral stopping by for dinner. She feared that after tonight, the man would disappear from their lives and they would go back to their gray life. However, she knew she shouldn't be selfish. He was her patient and she had a rule about getting closer to any of her patients.

She looked over at him again. “Maybe she could make one exception.. She shook her head. 'No...he has amnesia...for all I know he could be a horrible person...' She knew that was a lie. There was no way he was a bad person. After all, a bad person wouldn't be emitting such a warm glow of happiness.

The man looked over at Mary and saw her shaking her head. “Hm? What's wrong?” Mary was snapped from her thoughts due to his voice and raised her hands a bit.

“Ah no, it's nothing. Just thinking about things.” She replied.

“I see. Man, I'm hungry. Can't wait to eat.” He said changing the subject. Mary sighed, but smiled at him.

“You really are a glutton.” She muttered.

“Huh?”

“Nothing, don't mind it.” He only tilted his head curiously.

They didn't speak for the rest of the way. They soon arrived back at the clinic and were surprised when they saw the Admiral and commander he was with already there, waiting for them,

Koby spotted them and approached the trio. “Please excuse me for getting here early.” he apologized. “This is just...something I need to figure out...for my own sake” Mary eyed him suspiciously, but she could tell he truly meant his words. He recognized her patient and if this was a way for him to regain his memory, then she'll suck it up and accept the end results.

“It's alright. Please come in.” She lead them inside.

“Thank you.” Koby and Hibari entered followed by the mystery man and then Mary herself.

“Please wait a moment as I put my daughter to bed.” Mary told her guests.

“Of course.” Koby nodded and watched as she took her daughter from the man. She hugged her daughter close to her and headed to her room upstairs. This left Koby, Hibari and the man in the same room.

To say the atmosphere was awkward, that would be an understatement. The man however, didn't feel any awkwardness and couldn't help himself to the kitchen to look for food.

“How rude...” Hibari commented. Never did she think she see a patient of a doctors just rummage through their kitchen for food.

Koby however, stared at him. This was nothing more than another check mark on his list. More and more his suspicions and hopes increased. His heart raced against his chest. If this person was exactly who he thought it was, he didn't know how he could handle the emotions. Not only him, but so many other people. However, he couldn't just claim this mystery man to be who he thought it was. He had to make sure.

“I'm back.” Mary announced as she returned. She looked over to the man in her kitchen looking for food. And got a little annoyed at the slight rudeness. “You really can't wait, can you?”

The man turned to her and chuckled. “Shishishishi. Sorry...”

'It really can't be a coincidence...' Koby thought, hearing his laugh again.

Mary sighed and walked to the kitchen. “Go sit down, I'll bring dinner when its done.” She told the man.

“Shishishi! Okay!” He rushed over to the table and sat down, swaying and bouncy back and forth in excitement.

Koby observed everything about the man and it was all too much of a coincidence. There was no way another man would act similar, have the same laugh, the same quirks as the man who helped him accomplish his dream.

“Make yourself at home, Admiral-san, Commader-san.” They both looked over and nodded, thanking her.

“Do you want any help?” Hibari asked, wanting to try and cook something for Koby to impress.

“Thank you, but you are my guests. Please, sit and relax, you must have had a long journey sailing the seas and keeping our world in peace.” Mary told her.

'A-AAngel...' She complimented her in her head, blushing slightly.

“Commander Hibari...let's have a seat.” Koby told her.

“Yes, Admiral Koby-san!” Koby chuckled at her enthusiasm and removed his admiral coat to hang it on the chair and sat down. He sat down across from the mystery man and observed him.

“Food...food...food...food...” He kept repeating over and over again as he swayed back and forth. The hunger for food was such a huge piece of evidence for Koby, but he couldn't just go with that. He tried examining the man's face, but his hair and beard were blocking most of it, so he couldn't even properly see the possible scar he might have under his left eye.

The man swayed for a bit before he felt Koby's eyes on him. He then stared back and furrowed his eyebrows a bit. “What?”

“I apologize...I don't mean to stare...it's just...you look very familiar to someone I knew once.” Koby told him as he tried to spy any sort of reaction from him that he could spot. However, the man showed nothing, just a blank expression. Something Koby realized, would also be just like 'him'.

“Hmmm? I see.” He responded before returning to swaying back and forth.

“Do you mind if I ask you a couple of questions?” Koby asked placing his elbows on the table and clasping his hands together.

“Sure...though I don't remember anything...” He replied honestly.

“That's fine. Just answer any questions as honestly as possible.” He told him. “I guess my first question would be, do you know your name?”

“Nope.” Koby wasn't surprised, but he wanted to make sure. He wanted to see if he got any sort of reaction out of his facial expression.

“Does the word, pirate mean anything to you?” Hibari was surprised by the question.

“Pirate?”

“Yes. Does it ring any bells?”

“No.”

Still the same blank expression.

“Okay, how about...” He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. “...does Straw Hat mean anything to you?” Hibari's eyes widened at the Admiral before looking over to the man.

“No.”

Koby stared at the man, hoping to see some sort of reaction. He just needed anything.

“Hmmm...what about Pirate King?” The man continued to have a blank expression.

“Pirate King? There's a pirate king?” He tilted his head in confusion. Koby felt a little frustrated. Was his memory loss so severe that none of the questions he asked sparked any sort of memory.

“Yes...well...yes and no...it's a little complicated...but let's move on...”

“Koby-san...” Hibari slowly pieced together what Koby was trying to do. She knew how much that person meant to him, but she worried about his mental health. He died seven years ago. This person couldn't be him. She didn't want him to go through this again. He had already accept his fate, and it took him a lot to actually admit it. She didn't want him to suffer again.

“It's fine, Hibari...I just need to get this off my chest.” He told her with a smile and then returned to the mystery man. “Meat?”

“I like meat!” Koby finally got an expression out of him that wasn't his blank face, but it really wasn't something concrete.

“Portgas D. Ace?” The man's facial expression returned to being blank.

“Whose that?”

Koby squeezed his hands tightly. 'If Ace didn't work, then what would? Should I name is crew mates? No...I wanna save that as a last resort.' Koby thought about what else to say. He didn't want to scare the man from his questions, so he was trying to be very careful. “Red-Haired Shanks.”

The man finally made a face that was different. Koby's heart raced when saw it. Was this it? Did he break through.

“Red-Haired...Shanks...that's such a cool name...whose that?” Koby almost fell out of his seat. He couldn't believe that the expression he had was only one of awe. This was starting to get frustrating.

“G-Garp-san!”

“No.”

“What about Roronoa Zoro-san!?” He yelled out, standing up, a little frustrated with having to use his last resort.

“No.”

“Black-Leg Sanji!-san”

“No.”

“Usopp-san!!”

“N-”

“Nico Robin-san! Franky-san! Chopper-san! Brook-san! Jinbe!-san Nami-san!!”

The man lowered his head as Koby shouted out their names. “N-”

“PLEASE TELL ME YOU REMEMBER YOUR OWN CREW! YOUR FRIENDS!!!” Koby' shouted with tears in his eyes. His own crew. If this was him, then he wouldn't forget his crew. Was all this just a farce? Was this really not him? He couldn't believe it. Everything fit. Everything fit so why couldn't he remember. “M-Monkey D. Luffy...”

“Koby-san...” Hibari whispered his name as tears formed in her eyes.

“Please...tell me...does the name...M-Monkey D. Luffy...does it mean anything...to you...?” His head was lowered as he clenched the table sheets tightly. Mary who was coming from the kitchen with the food, stopped when she heard the commotion and looked over at the table. She blinked as she thought she heard a familiar name. “Please...tell me...are you...are you Monkey D. Luffy!?” Koby raised his head and cried out his question. Tears streaming down his face.

Mary gasped and dropped the food when she heard the name. 'No way...Monkey D. Luffy? The man who... was the leader of that pirate crew that fought against the former World Government?' Mary couldn't believe she heard those words. Was this man that pirate? The new Pirate King? She was taken care of that man?

“Ah! Are you okay?” Hibari asked Mary seeing her drop the plates. Koby turned his head as well, feeling guilty that he caused a possible injury to a civilian.

“Ah, I'm sorry...I...”

Mary shook as she realized who was in her home. The man who was responsible for changing the world. The man who her husband fought against and then joined with when the old World Government betrayed the people of the world. Was this man with amnesia really that man? She looked over to see if there was any inclination of that being the truth. She placed a hand to her mouth.

“Urghh...” Koby and Hibari turned to the man who made the noise. The man suddenly grabbed his head. “...it hurts...my head...urgh....” He suddenly got up and stumbled around the room. He got close to the wall before shocking everyone when he slammed his head against the wall.

“Hey1 Stop that! You're hurting yourself!” Hibari shouted at him as Koby and Mary looked with bewilderment at his actions. He placed his hands on his head and starting screaming. Cheryl, who awoke from the loud noise, watched from the stairs as the bearded man was slamming his head against the wall. She started feeling scared.

The man's head was going in a spiral. It hurt incredibly badly. He slammed it against the wall again, in hopes the pain would go away. However, no matter how much he tried, it just wouldn't go away. The room began to spin and the pain only increased.

“Ahhhhhhhhh!” He screamed and shook his head. Koby felt guilty, but he needed to know the truth. Was this actually him? Was this actually the man who changed the world. Was this really Monkey D. Luffy!?

The man screamed again and he fell to his knees. He slammed his head down to the floor and did so several times.

“Stop!” Cheryl suddenly screamed as she came down the stairs. “Please stop hurting yourself!” Mary rushed over to her daughter to prevent her from getting closer. She didn't want her to get hurt in case the man went crazy and accidentally hurt her.

“Ahhhhhh!” He screamed over and over again with every slam of his head.

”Koby-san! We have to do something!” Hibari told her Admiral. However, Koby just watched. He hated watching this scene unfold, but he didn't want to interrupt. What if this was the only way. The only way for him to remember. When Hibari saw Koby not move, she frowned in worry. “Koby-san...”

The man had thousands upon thousands of images appear in his head and the more he slammed his head, the more appeared. It hurt. He wanted the pain to stop. He wanted it to stop.

Remember...

He heard a voice. A voice that sounded familiar.

Remember who you are...

Remember!

“AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!” The man slammed his head hard as he broke the wooden floor, leaving a hole in the center of the room. However, he stopped moving. This worried everyone in attendance. Hibari gulped as Cheryl tried to break from her mother's grasp, but she held her daughter close to her.

Mary was worried for his well being. As a doctor, she did not want her patients to harm themselves. Even if it was true, even if he was the infamous Monkey D. Luffy, she was a doctor first. However, not even she moved to see if he was okay. She was in a whirlwind of emotions and all she could do was protect her daughter in case of any danger he might pose.

The room became deathly silent. No one spoke for several minutes as they waited for any movement from the long black haired man. It was Koby who finally spoke a word. “Umm...are you okay?”

A twitch came from the man's head and everyone flinched, and stayed alert. They didn't know what he was going to do, so they prepared for all possibilities, including preparing to sedate him.

Then, almost as if it was a speed of light. The man's arms stretched towards Koby's grabbing them by shoulder. Koby's eyes widened. There was only one man capable of this. Then, without warning, the man launched himself at Koby and to the surprise of everyone, the man looked up at the pink haired admiral and with a wide toothy grin yelled out, “KOOOOOOOOOOBBBBBBBBBYYYYYYYYYY!!!!” Koby's eyes widened as the man hugged Koby's head with a wide smile.

Tears welled up and he began crying. He was alive. The man who saved him, told him to follow his dream, the man who gave him the courage to become a strong Marine that helped innocent people. The man he owed his life. He was alive.

“L-LUUUUUUUUUUUFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFYYYYYYYYYYY-SAAAAAAAAAAAAAANNNNNN!!”

END

Chapter Text

"L-L-Luffy-san! I knew it! I knew you were alive this whole time!" Koby cried as he was on his knees.

"Shishishishi!" Luffy only laughed at his reaction.

"Koby-san...I'm so happy..." Hibari couldn't help but cry along side the person she loved. She was so glad his friend was alive. She was so glad that Koby could now find peace in knowing he was alive. Of course, she was also a bit mad. Koby had suffered a lot after the events seven years ago, desperately trying to find his friend. She had half a mind to yell at him for making Koby depressed for such a long time, but for now she was just happy for Koby. She wanted to get answers about his whereabouts for all this time, but right now she was just too happy for her Admiral.

Mary and Cheryl felt like they outcasts, in their own homes no less. Mary was glad that the man who saved her daughter regained his memories, but at the same time, if it was true, she felt conflicted. She knew her husband wouldn't make the choice that he did unless he was convinced it was the right choice. She should be mad at the World Government for using her husband as a marine, but she would be lying if she didn't feel a little angry at the Pirate King.

She knew it wasn't fair. He fought for his beliefs and it was her husband's choice. However, deep down she felt sick to her stomach at the thought that if he didn't join with the pirates side during the middle of the war, would he be alive? She didn't know and frankly, for all she knew, he could have died either way. However, she hated feeling this way. She was just so conflicted.

Cheryl was just confused on what happened. She was watching the man who she bonded with slam his head on the wall and floor and then suddenly hug the pink haired guy. Now he was standing beside him laughing, while the pink haired guy cried. She also caught the name he was calling her mother's patient. Luffy, to her, had a funny ring to it. She liked saying his name.

Luffy laughed at Koby's reaction and then stopped when he caught a whiff of the smell of food. He turned his head and saw the food on the floor and grinned widely, sticking his tongue out. "Fooooodddd!" He exclaimed in excitement as he started eating all the food.

"Ah wait..." Luffy stopped for a moment to look over at Mary and Cheryl. Mary stopped and felt a little fear when he looked over at her, She hugged her daughter tighter to her.

"Ah! Mary! Cheryl! Look, I got my memories back! Thank you for helping me!" He grinned at them and the two felt themselves calm down. He acted just like he did when he had no memories. Cheryl grinned back and finally was able to get loose from her mother's grasp and ran over, giving Luffy a hug and laughing along with him.

"I'm glad you got your memory back!" She told him.

He grinned. "Right? Thank you, Cheryl! For taking care of me when I was hurt." Cheryl smiled and blushed at the praise.

Mary's conflicted feelings were still there, but they were not as severe. This man didn't feel dangerous. This man didn't feel like a pirate. No, he brought joy and happiness with just a smile. This man was not evil. If this was the man her husband decided to follow, she understood why now. He brought back her daughter's smile...he brought back her smile. This man was the new Pirate King.

She felt tears well up and she lost it as she cried. Everyone turned to her and started to worry, "Okaa-san! Why are you crying?" Cheryl asked running over to her.

"I'm sorry...I just...I just..." She looked at her daughter and pulled her into a big hug. "I'm just so happy right now." She confessed as her daughter began crying with her. No one else in the room knew why, but gave them a warm smile as the mother and daughter both cried happy tears with each other. She opened her eyes to look at Luffy and just smiled at him. "Thank you."

Luffy wasn't sure why she was thanking him, but he could tell whatever he did made her happy. "No problem!"

~OP~

Once everyone calmed down, they all sat at the table as Luffy had Cheryl on his shoulders and swaying back and forth, playing with her. Koby was incredibly happy that he went with his gut. He knew it was a hail Mary, but he had to try. However, he had so many questions for him. He wanted to tell him everything that has happened in the world the past seven years, but he waited as Luffy just regained his memories, so who knows how good they were at the moment.

Mary just smiled as the two of them playfully played. She now realized the truth about the type of person the Pirate King was. She always wondered. Why when she was told her husband died fighting with the Pirate King. Now she knew. He was a man that brought both her daughter and herself from a long period of grief. They may only have known each other for a day, but it felt like she'd known him for months.

"I'm sorry for all the trouble." Koby told her as she looked away from Luffy and her daughter.

"No...I should be thanking you. I know you have a lot to talk about with an old friend. If you don't want my daughter and I to be he-"

"No, it's fine. In fact, you can probably help us out." Mary blinked at him curiously and just nodded.

Koby nodded back before turning to Luffy. To see his old friend again felt like a dream. If it was he didn't want to wake up. He liked watching the two of them play, but he knew they also had to get down to the important questions. Not only his, but there's no question that Luffy probably had some of his own.

"Look." Luffy pulled his cheeks back and snapped them back to his face as Cheryl laughed at his antics. Koby smiled.

"Luffy-san..." Luffy stopped and looked across the table. "...I'm glad you're back. It's been seven years since everyone reported that you died. We never could find your body so there was some chance we could find you...but in the end, we couldn't find a body. We've searched for over a year and then we...we all assumed that you...you know, died."

"I see." Luffy looked at him seriously.

"But you're alive and that's great news!" Luffy smiled and laughed.

"Shishishi!"

"Ah, but you're probably wondering what happened these past seven years, right? I also have some questions." Koby told him truthfully.

"Huh? Like what?" He asked, tilting his head, which Cheryl mimicked. Mary smiled at that.

"Luffy-san...your battle with Imu...what happened?" Koby asked. They knew both Luffy and Imu fought high up in the sky, right above the red line. At the end of the battle, they both came crashing down with enough force that they slammed straight through the red line. An event that changed the landscape of the entire world.

Luffy looked at Koby and then frowned. "I...I don't know..."

"Huh?" Both Koby and Hibari were surprised to hear this.

"I don't remember anything about that. The last thing I remembered was...the night before.." Koby blinked in confusion.

"The night before?" Luffy nodded. "So, everything after that, you don't remember?"

"Nope." He told them with a serious look. The three all looked at him with slight concern. How could he not remember anything about that day? He was front and center of the entire conflict. It was weird, but Koby knew one thing about Luffy. He was a terrible liar.

"I see..." Koby sighed, giving up on that talking point.

Luffy smiled. "I might not remember, but you said I beat someone right? Then I'm glad. I won, shishishi. " He was happy to hear he was victorious.

Koby smiled.. When he found out the truth about what the World Government was hiding, he got pissed. The organization that he always believed saved lives and served the people, arrested criminals who hurt people, was behind some of the most terrible war crimes he ever heard about. He hated the truth and vowed to make sure that when a new World Government was created, he'd make it in the vision he believed to be righteous. That's what the New World Government was about. He cleared his throat to break the tension in the room.

"Okay, do you remember what happened to you? You disappeared for seven years. Do you know by any chance where you have been all this time?" He asked his next question.

"I don't know." Hibari felt a little annoyed at his answer.

"Do you not know anything!?" Koby chuckled.

"Now, now Hibari-san...it's possible those memories of Luffy-sans haven't returned...unless..." He paused as he didn't want to speculate something that wasn't true. It did make him curious why those memories didn't come back. Did he not have them at all? Did someone erase them? It was a possibility, but who could do that. Either way, he had no proof of this so he dropped the subject.

"I do have a question." Luffy suddenly said.

"Huh? Oh, yes. What is it, Luffy-san?" Koby knew he had questions and he was more than glad to answer.

"What happened to my crew? Are they okay?" Koby figured that be the first question he asked.

"While we aren't sure where all the members of your crew are, we do know that they are still alive. They did split up after the war though, but I'm sure they will be thrilled to hear that you have returned." Koby said with a wide grin.

Luffy released a huge sigh in relief that he had been holding back. He was incredibly happy that his crew was okay. "Shishishishi, that's great! I can't wait to see them!"

Koby nodded. Mary looked at Luffy and started wondering what his crew was like. If they were his crew members, they too must have been amazing people.

"We'll definitely help you find them. We can leave as soon tomorrow morning. Well, as long as your doctor says it's okay." He looked over at Mary.

Mary felt a bit conflicted, but deep down she knew what the right thing to do was. "Since he got his memory back, I can release him from my custody. I hope you find your friends, Luffy."

"Ahh, thank you, Mary! Shishishishi!" They both smiled at each other. The only person who wasn't thrilled about it, was Cheryl as she frowned and pouted.

"Do you really have to go?" She asked. Luffy tilted his head up slightly and smiled.

"Don't worry, Cheryl. I will be back and next time it'll be me and my crew and we can have a lot more fun!" Cheryl still wasn't a hundred percent happy, but she smiled anyway, knowing Luffy will definitely keep his promise.

"Okay! That's a promise!" Luffy chuckled as he swayed back and forth again to earn a giggle from the younger girl.

The other three felt a smile grow as they watched the two play for a bit. However, there were still a lot more questions Koby had. "Luffy...I know you probably don't know this but...there is something I should tell you." He turned serious for a moment as Luffy stopped playing. "Luffy...you truly did it...you became the Pirate King...I'm so happy that you did it!"

Luffy's eyes widened when the realization hit him. "W-What...?" Koby nodded.

"Hai. You found the One Piece, right? Yoiu may not remember, but the moment you beat Imu, you found the One Piece. You became the Pirate King." Luffy looked at Koby to see if he was bluffing. However, he saw nothing of the sort. Was he really the Pirate King...? However, something didn't sit right with Luffy.

"No..." He said, surprising everyone. "I'm not..."

"Huh? But you found the One Piece. Your dream..." Koby was surprised by his reaction. He thought Luffy would be happy.

"Hmmm...you say that, but I don't remember anything...I don't even remember what the One Piece was. It just doesn't sit right with me." He responded with a frown. Koby had understood why Luffy would think that. He truly believed Luffy did it, but if he couldn't remember, then it made sense why Luffy didn't like the idea. Koby believed he was, but in the end, what mattered was what Luffy thought. He sighed. Koby didn't want to press the issue further. Something told him Luffy wouldn't budge anyway. "Besides, being the Pirate King means I'm the freest man in the world. I don't feel like I am, especially since I came back, so yeah, I'm not the Pirate King."

"I see..." Koby knew how stubborn Luffy could be and probably understand better than anyone what it meant to be Pirate King. He didn't believe he had a place to say so he accepted his answer. "Well, regardless, you did find it and people will call you the Pirate King now, Luffy-san. Even if you don't want them too." It wasn't that Luffy wasn't happy about being the Pirate King, but he didn't remember it. He just felt it was wrong to call himself that. Nonetheless, they dropped the subject and moved on. "Do you have any other questions?"

"What happened to Sabo?" He asked about his brother. Koby smiled.

"Well, after the fall of the Old World Government, people from many different countries didn't want there to be no large scale governing body. So, they decided to create a New World Government, but this time, it would be democratic." Luffy narrowed his eyes.

"Demo-what? I don't get it...what does this have to do with Sabo...?" He slouched his face down on the table.

Hibari sighed, while Mary only giggled. "Hahaha, sorry. What I mean is, the people now are able to vote for is in charge of the New World Government. They wanted someone who could right the ship and bring proper justice to the world. Luffy-san, Sabo-kun became that. He became the leader of the New World Government."

Luffy's eyes widened. "Sugoi..." He couldn't believe Sabo became someone that important.

"Un. While there is a whole new voting system put into place and new political system as well...but I'm gonna assume you don't care about all of that. You only need to know that Sabo-kun is running things now. He's my boss essentially." Luffy chuckled.

"Shishishi! I'm glad Sabo is doing good." Luffy wasn't entirely sure what any it really meant, but he was happy that his brother was okay. At the end of the day, that's what mattered to Luffy. As long as Sabo was alive and well, he was happy.

Koby figured as much. "Now then, let's talk about what you did."

"Huh?" He blinked.

"Luffy-san, the fight you had with Imu changed the world. The red line is no longer what you remember." Luffy gasped softly. "With your fight, you both slammed straight down onto the red line, shattering it in half and the impact broke the Red Line. It caused all the major seas to converge on the spot. Do you know the old legend of the All Blue?"

Luffy's eyes widened. The All Blue. "All Blue...that was Sanji's dream!" That meant that Sanji's dream was...it was complete. He gained a very wide smile that one of his friend's dreams was found. He was incredibly happy. "I'm glad, Sanji. Shishishishi!" Koby smiled, knowing that one of Luffy's friend's dream was to find the All Blue.

"Also, that area of the Red Line that you destroyed? It's named after you." Luffy blinked in surprise.

"Huh?"

"Hm. It's called Luffy Gorge. It's where the All Blue rests. Your crew I believe gave it that name." He told him with a smile.

Luffy didn't know how to feel about having something named after him, but smiled at the gesture by his crew to remember him by. He really couldn't wait to see them again. He missed them so much. "Shishishi." He couldn't help chuckle bashfully.

"Aside from that, Fishman Island is now above water and has stayed like so for seven years." Luffy smiled thinking about Shirahoshi.

"Oh, that's right. I owe her a walk, shishishishi!" He blurted out, surprising everyone.

"Huh? What are you talking about?" Hibari continuously finds him too confusing to understand.

"Shishishi, it's nothing." Koby didn't pry, so he changed the subject.

"Wano is now fully open and working with all other nations." Luffy smiled, thinking back about his adventures in Wano. "Alabasta is still ruled today by Queen Vivi-san."

"Sugoi, Vivi became the Queen." He chuckled as he thought back to the blue haired princess.

"Mm. Let's see what else..." Before he could continue, the sound of a transponder snail rang, alerting everyone in the room. Hibari took out the transponder snail from her pockets and lifted the receiver.

"Hai? Commander Hibari here." The den den mushi opened it's eyes as someone spoke over it.

"Commander Hibari-san." Another female voice spoke over it. A voice Luffy thought sounded familiar but he couldn't place who it was.

"Ah, Vice-Admiral Tashigi-san. Is something wrong?" Luffy recognized the name and was slightly surprised by her new position.

"We have new information to report from the former Celestial Dragon you apprehended." Koby and Hibari looked at each other for a moment. "After interrogating him and running some tests, we found out he's infected with the Imunemia." Both marines widened their eyes.

"Looks like we were right to come here." Koby commented.

"The what?" Luffy asked.

"Huh? Who is that?" Tashigi heard a voice from their end.

"Ah, we'll inform you later, Tashigi-san. Thank you for the report. We'll return shortly." Koby told her.

"Hai." With that last response, the den den mushi shut down as the call ended.

"It's spreading quicker, Koby-san." Hibari told him as he nodded.

"It seems so." Luffy looked between them in complete confusion.

"What's Imu-zebra?" He asked, butchering the name. "Is it tasty?"

Hibari sighed as Koby chuckled. Mary frowned as she looked down at her hands. She was the one who answered.

"Imunemia...it's a incurable blood disease that started appearing after the Great War." Luffy looked over at her.

"We don't necessarily know where it came from, but what we do know is that it came from Imu." Koby continued. Luffy furrowed his eyebrows. "When we found their body, we did tests and found something strange within their blood." He explained further. "It's unsure how, but we discovered some sort of pathogen inside him. Some of the marines that brought his body on board suddenly grew ill. We then discovered this new disease we never seen before. Despite the best efforts of our doctors and from even Chopper-san, we couldn't find a way to cure them." Luffy perked up at the mention of his friend. "It's a terrible disease that spreads with being in contact with a person and getting their blood mixed with your own. It starts going through your body and attacking your organs. Some die within days, others within a year or so. Some lucky few were able to live for 5 years. In the end though, they die."

Luffy wasn't exactly sure of all the medical terminology Koby said, but understood that it was a very bad thing. "I see..." He simply only commented.

"Luffy-san...despite your victory against Imu, it also caused the disease to spread." Luffy's eyes widened. "W-We're not blaming you, of course." Koby reassured him. "However, when you defeated Imu, his body was a bloody mess and that blood spread into the water. The pathogen inside of him somehow survived in the water and because now that all the seas were connected, it began to spread across the world. Good news is that the water is no longer contaminated with the pathogen. Now it's all spread by making contact with blood and unfortunately, we haven't had a good time trying to stop the spread."

Luffy frowned as he understood what Koby was saying. "Because of me..."

"No, Luffy-san. It's not your fault. You...none of us had any idea that Imu had any sort of pathogen inside him. I guess you can say, that was their last ditch effort to curse the world you created." Luffy felt himself get angry. He knew he shouldn't blame himself, but Imu still managed to find a way to get the last laugh. It pissed him off.

Mary noticed the guilt on his face and tried to calm him down. "Your friend, Chopper-san?" Luffy's anger lowered at the mention of his friend's name. "He's that amazing Reindeer Doctor, right?" Luffy felt a little pride at his crew mate being called amazing.

"Yep, that's him!" He grinned widely. Mary smiled.

"He really is an amazing doctor." She complimented him again with a smile.

"Huh? You know, Chopper?" He asked excitedly.

"Oh, no. Sadly I haven't ever met him. I did hear some amazing stories and the things he has done in recent years have inspired not only myself, but Cheryl as well."

Cheryl grinned. "Doctor Chopper-chan is incredible. He helped find cures for so many diseases! I wanna be a great doctor like him one day!" Luffy chuckled at the praise of his crew mate. "I want to meet him one day and give him a biiiiiiggggg hug!" She exclaimed with her arms wide open.

Everyone aside from Luffy, who was chuckling, all looked at her and just had the same thought. 'Cute...'

'I wonder if Koby-san and I...' Hibari peeked over at the man who she loved and imagined kids with him one day. She blushed and shuffled back and forth in her seat. Her hands clasped against her cheeks, flustered at her day dreaming. Koby only eyed her questionably.

"Shishishishi! I'm so glad Chopper! You became a great doctor!" He was so happy to hear his nakama being able to achieve their dream. He really wanted to go see them.

"Indeed. Chopper-san is an amazing doctor. Without him, we never would be able to find so many cures for so many illnesses. Thanks to him and his organization." Luffy looked over at Koby and tilted his head.

"Organization?" He asked.

"Ah,r ight. After the war, Chopper-san apparently traveled the world and met so many doctors that wanted to help him find cures for so many different diseases. Together with them, he created the organization knows as Sakura." Luffy's eyes widened as he remembered the scene of Drum Island. "Together, they manage to fight against diseases and find cures and help anyone inflicted with said diseases."

"Sugoi...Chopper is so cool!" Koby nodded in agreement.

He then looked at his watch and noticed the time. He wanted to spend some more time with Luffy, but knew they had to get back. He then looked at Luffy. "Luffy-san, I want to keep talking, but we need to head back."

"Ehhhhh..." He pouted, wanting to hear more about his friends.

Koby chuckled. "We unfortunately have to leave this island early tomorrow morning. With the news that we have someone infected with Imunemia, we have to take them over to Sakura so Chopper-san and the other doctors can start his treatment. If you want to, you can come along." Luffy's eyes widened and he got excited at the thought of seeing Chopper again.

"Can I? Hurray!" Luffy exclaimed loudly. Both Mary and Cheryl frowned, but knew they couldn't stop him. He was gone for so long, his friends must have missed him and they didn't want to hold him back.

"I'm glad. We have to make a stop first at Neveria first before we head to Luffy Gorge and then head to the North Blue where Sakura is located." He informed him that the trip would be long.

"I see...so it'll be a while before I see Chopper..." Luffy pouted.

"I wouldn't be too sad, Luffy-san." Koby told him as he stood up and grabbed his coat from the chair. "You might get to see an old friend at Neveria."

"Huh? Who?" He asked, tilting his head. He never visited it or even knew of it's existence.

Koby chuckled. "I'll keep it a surprise. It's also possible they're not there at the moment, so I don't want to get your hopes up."

"I see." Luffy responded.

"Meet us at the docks early in the morning." Koby told him. "I will have a pair of marine outfits for you to wear so you can blend in with the others."

"Huh? Why?" He asked.

"Luffy-san, it's better if we keep the fact you're alive a secret for the moment. We don't want anyone to tell the world that the new Pirate King is alive yet. Also, it'll be a better surprise for your friends when they see you." He suggested.

Luffy didn't say anything for a moment before he grinned widely. "Okay."

Koby smiled and along with Hibari, lowered their heads to Mary. "Thank you for the dinner and your hospitality. As well as taking care of Luffy-san." Mary smiled.

"Only doing what any doctor would." She told them. They smiled at each other before Koby and Hibari took their leave.

Mary sighed. She felt extremely exhausted with everything that occurred. She then turned to look over at Luffy who was looking back at the door. She wondered what he was thinking. What would any person think when they were told that they changed the world. That they've been dead for seven years. His mind must have been all over the place.

A yawn interrupted both of their thoughts as Cheryl rubbed her eyes and rested her soft head on to Luffy's black hair. "...sleepy..." She muttered. Luffy chuckled a bit. Mary sighed once again and stood up from her seat. She walked over and took Cheryl from Luffy's shoulder and nestled her daughter into her arms.

"Looks like I'm not the only one who is tired..." She giggled at her daughter. She looked over at Luffy and saw him smiling. "What?"

"Shishishi! Nothing. Just really happy." Mary wasn't sure the exact reason he was happy, but it didn't really matter. At the end of the day, he remembered who he was, found out his friends are all alive and now has a chance to meet them. She should be happy for him. Yet, she felt a small tinge in her chest. A sudden sadness. "Hm? What's wrong?" He asked her suddenly, surprising her.

"Oh, nothing." She told him. "I'm going to take Cheryl up to her bed." She told him. "You can use the guest room of you'd like." She offered.

"Thanks...but I'm gonna go sleep on the roof." Mary was surprised by that.

"Huh? The roof?" Luffy grinned.

"Shishishi! I wanna make sure I get up in time." He stood up. He then looked at her and gave her a smile. "Thank you."

Mary blushed a little before giving him a smile in return. "Only doing what a doctor is supposed to." Luffy smiled and turned around to walk out of the building. Mary watched his back until he closed the door behind him. 'You're friends...are really lucky...Luffy...' She looked down at her daughter and smiled, before she slowly took her towards her room.

Luffy stretched his arms up and landed on the roof. He plopped down and stared up at the night sky with his hands behind his head. Luffy didn't usually think too much, but there was just so much information he received today that he couldn't process it all. However, the most important information that he cared about was that his friends, his crew, his brother, they were all alive. They were able to find their dreams, accomplish them. While he only managed to get information on two of them, he was so proud of what they were able to accomplish.

"Chopper...Sanji...Brook...Jinbe...Robin...Zoro...Usopp...Franky..." He paused in silence for the last member of his crew. "...Nami..." He closed his eyes as the last memory he remembered flashed in his mind. A memory of a promise he made to her. He frowned. He broke that promise. "Nami...I'm sorry...hopefully I can still help you fulfill your dream..."

Luffy...promise me...after all this is over...you...you come back...i still need a map to draw remember...hehehe...

She said those words, but deep down, he knew she wasn't being honest. He just couldn't figure out what it was. The sound of her voice trailing off at the end...the faint sound of her laugh...she was holding back something, but he didn't know what. Either way, he felt disappointed in himself.

He promised to come back, but he didn't. He died. He wanted to keep his promise, but he had no recollection of what happened after he delivered that last blow to Imu. It's like he just lost consciousness. Then all he remembered next was hearing Koby's voice. It was all so strange to him.

He hoped Nami was able to finish her map, her dream. At the same time, he also hoped she didn't. Not because he didn't want her too, in fact he would love to hear her say that she finished. However, he would feel guilty. He promised her that he would help. He wanted to help. He just hoped that he still could is all.

Luffy closed his eyes and just tried to fall asleep. He didn't know what to expect tomorrow. He didn't know who it was that Koby mentioned was at Neveria, but it made him both excited and a bit nervous. Regardless, he was not going to back down. He was going to find his friends once again. Then they'll set sail once more and go on adventures again, just like old times.

Right...?

~OP~

Mary woke up the next morning and the first thing she did was check on Luffy. However, he wasn't there on the roof. She frowned and felt sad. Did he leave already? Did she just miss him? She sighed, knowing that this was the right choice. She just hoped Cheryl wouldn't take it too hard that he left without saying goodbye.

"Oh, Mary." Mary's eyes widened when she whipped around and saw Luffy walking out from the side of the building.

"Huh...wait...you didn't leave yet?" Mary asked, surprised.

"Shsihsihsi! I didn't want to leave without saying goodbye. Where is Cheryl?" Mary couldn't help the smile on her face.

"She's still asleep. What were you doing over there?" She asked, pointing to the side of the building by the shrubbery.

"Oh, I fell. Shishshi!" He laughed at his own clumsiness. Mary sweat dropped at him.

"W-What?" She didn't even know what to say to that.

"I saw a shooting star so I wanted to get a closer look and I slipped on my hair and just landed there. I then just fell asleep. Shishishi!" Mary face palmed at this. She didn't know him long, but already he felt like a handful.

"Okaa-san...? Ah, Luffy-Oniichan!" Cheryl opened the door and ran over to give Luffy a hug. "You're still here!" Luffy laughed as he gave the hug.

"Yep! Didn't want to go just yet until I said goodbye." At this, Cheryl's expression turned upside down.

"Do you really have to go?" Luffy smiled softly at her and gently placed her on the ground. He squatted down and looked at her in the eyes.

"Sorry, Cheryl. However, I have to go see my friends. They're waiting for me." Cheryl looked at him. She felt conflicted, but deep down she knew this was the right choice. So, she mustered up the courage and gave him a salute.

"Okay! I hope you get to see your friends soon!" She told him, holding back tears. Luffy chuckled and stood up before giving her a salute.

"I will! Thank you, Cheryl." She grinned widely at him.

Mary looked on with a warm feeling in her chest. She was so glad to see Cheryl smile again. She really couldn't help but thank Luffy for what he did.. Luffy looked over at her gave her his famous grin.

As if it was infectious, she imitated both him and her daughter and gave Luffy a salute, along with a grin of hers as well. "Good luck, Luffy."

He nodded. "Thank you...for everything." He lowered his hand and turned his body sideways. "Well, I'm off. I promise I'll be back. Hopefully with my crew too." Cheryl smiled as she nodded. Mary did the same as he laughed one more time before running in the direction of the ports.

"Ah, wait! It's that way." Mary pointed to her right. Luffy stopped and turned a new direction, earning a laugh from Cheryl. "Geez...what would he do without us...right Cheryl?"

"Mm!" Her daughter agreed as they watch Luffy run from their sight, hoping they'd meet the man again in near the future.

~OP~

Koby waited patiently as he stood in front of the large battleship they were gonna be traveling in. He looked in different directions every few second to see if he could spot Luffy.

Finally, after a while, he heard the familiar voice of his friend. "KOOOOOBBBBYYYY!" He turned to his right and smiled widely as he saw his friend running towards him with a big goofy smile, and his hand waving back and forth.

"Lu-" Koby stopped himself as he realized he almost spilled his identity. "It's you! You came!" He replied as Luffy stopped in front of him.

"Of course! I can't want to see my friends! Shishishishi!" Koby smiled before handing Luffy a normal grunt marine uniform.

"Put these on and stick close by me." He told him. "As long as you're with me, no one would question you."

Luffy nodded. Koby pointed him to go behind some boxes to change and he did so. Once Luffy was done, he walked out while wearing the uniform. It looked very similar to the old marine outfit except for the light green tint and the symbol of the New Marines on the left shoulder. The new symbol was very similar to the sun except with a shield in the center and the letters NM on them for New marines. Luffy of course paid no mind to it.

"Yosh! I'm ready!" He said posing in his new clothing. Koby nodded.

"Alright, follow me." He told him and Luffy did just that as the large battleship came into view, ready to take Luffy on a new journey, to reunite with his nakama.

End

Chapter Text

"Sugoi...this is your ship, Koby?" Luffy asked. He looked with awe at how big it was. It looked similar to Garp's old Marine Battleship except instead of a dog as a figure head, it was a green parrot. The side of the ship had a brighter green compared the old designed and sky blue railing/top. On the mast, was the symbol of the new Marines, A sun with a Shield in the center and the initials, NM, which stood for New marines.

Luffy noticed the symbol, but didn't ask about it as his attention was to the rest of the ship.

"Hai. It's a little too big for my taste, but it moves fast and very agile for its size." He told him as he lead him toward the ramp. "Come, we shall go to my office." Luffy pouted.

"Ehhhhh...but I wanna explore the ship..." He groaned in disappointment.

"Sorry, but I want to keep your identity a secret for the moment." Koby stopped walking to tell him. "At least until we reach Neveria."

"What is this Neveraa?" Luffy asked butchering the name.

"It's a new island that was formed after the war. You'll see when we get there." He teased as Luffy pouted.

They board the battleship and despite Luffy's urge to run around the ship, followed Koby into his office., Koby saluting and greeting his fellow Marines. Luffy got excited when they entered the pretty large room of his quarters and started running around, looking at everything he deemed cool.

"Sugoi! What is this? What is that!?" He continuously asked, finding something new to gain his attention. Koby could only chuckle. It was a little weird seeing Luffy act like his old self, but in a much older body. However, he couldn't blame him. After all, his mind was paused while his body grew, making him look a lot more mature than his younger self.

There was a sudden knock at the door that alerted Koby, but didn't bother Luffy as he continued to look around. Koby stood in front of the door, making sure his body blocked anyones view of his office and opened the door.

"Hai?" He asked as he looked and saw Hibari saluting in front of his door. He sighed in relief and smiled at the woman. "Commander Hibari-san, Are we ready to set sail?" Hibari nodded.

"Hai, Admiral Koby-san! We're ready, we can set sail anytime you want." Koby nodded and turned around to look back at Luffy.

"Well, we shouldn't keep our guest waiting long to meet his friends. Then let's sail. Oh, and once we're out at sea, please bring Vice Admiral Tashigi to my my office. I need to apologize to her for suddenly showing up in her jurisdiction."

"Hai!" She saluted him before heading off to inform the Vice Admiral.

Koby closed the door and looked back to see Luffy suddenly slouched in Koby's chair, grumbling. "Hm? What's wrong, Luffy?"

"I'm bored...don't you have anything fun to do here, Koby?" He asked the pink haired Admiral who only chuckled.

"Well, we could play some chess?" He offered.

"Chess? No thanks...Ojii-chan tried to make me play but the rules were confusing and I always got bored." Luffy shuddered slightly at the torture his Grandfather put him through playing a simple game of chess.

Koby sweat dropped at this and chuckled. He knew full well how strict Garp's training was, so he understood why his own Grandson would detest the thinking man's game.

"Sorry. There's not much here. I usually don't stay too long on my ship. If I do, it's because of the mountains of paperwork I have to do." He replied as Luffy slumped even further.

"Mmmmm..." He groaned in boredom.

"How about I tell you some stories? Like how I became an Admiral?" Luffy's eyes widened when he heard this.

"WHAT!? YOU'RE AN ADMIRAL!?"

"Y-You just noticed!?" Koby exclaimed in shock. He then chuckled as he remembered who he was talking to. Luffy may know about Admirals and how dangerous they were, but he was just shocked at how far Koby got.

"Sugoi Koby...you really did become a great Marine! Shi shishishi!" Koby blushed from embarrassment at the praise.

"Thank you. It's all thanks to you, Luffy. Your words back then lit a fire in me and I never stopped driving for my dream." He looked at his hand and clenched it.

Luffy couldn't help the large grin plastered on his face. He could still remember meeting this small, chubby boy who dreamed of becoming a great Marine, and to see him become who he was standing before him made him happy for his friend.

The two continued to talk as Koby detailed him the day he became an Admiral. After the formation of the New World Government, the reconstruction of the Marines was one of the first things they did. They interrogated many former members of the old guard and let go thousands of Marine officers, Captains and Lieutenants who were found to have been corrupted or not interested in the new path of the New Marines.

Former Marines such as Kizaru and Greenbull, former Admirals, were let go. However, not before the new Admirals challenging and beating them to take their spots. Koby, with a wide smile, told Luffy of his battle with Greenbull where he came out as victorious. Luffy became engulfed with the story of Koby's incredible fight with Greenbull. He rocked back and forth at the edge of his seat as Koby motioned the final blow he used to dealt Greenbull the final blow.

"Sugoi! Koby, you really are amazing!" Koby bashfully chuckled and rubbed the back of his head. Before they could continue to their next conversation, a knock was heard at the door again.

"Ah, that must be Hibari-san and Tashigi-san." Koby smiled and walked to the door.

"Tashigi?" Luffy hummed at the familiar name, but couldn't put a face to it.

Koby opened the door and both females stood in front of it, saluting the higher ranking officer. Koby saluted back, before chuckling. "You know you two don't have to do that. We're friends after all."

"I will always show you respect, Koby-san!" Hibari proclaimed as Tashigi softly smiled at the younger girl. She knew about the girl's crush on the Admiral and wanted to support her no matter. She then looked over at Koby.

"You requested to see me, Admiral Koby-san." Koby nodded.

"Ah, yes! There is something we need to discuss. However..." He paused, creating a small amount of tension between them. Tashigi noticed the change in his demeanor and raised an eyebrow.

"W-What is it?" She asked, fixing her glasses.

"Tashigi-san...there is someone I want you to meet...or rather...you already met them before..." He turned around to head back inside the office, allowing the two female marines to follow.

Luffy had his hands placed behind his head, looking up at the ceiling a bit bored, but looked straight ahead when he noticed people approaching him. "Hm?"

"Oi! What are you doing sitting in Koby-san's chair!" Hibari screamed, pointing a finger at Luffy. She couldn't believe someone would dare sit in her hero's seat. Koby tried to settle the girl down.

"It's alright, Hibari-san. I don't mind."

"You should, Koby-san! You're an Admiral now!" She exclaimed.

Luffy laughed. "You two get along great!"

"Ah! W-We d-do? W-Well...I agree...hehehe..." Hibari blushed, placing her hands on her cheeks, feeling flustered. Koby, oblivious to her feelings tilted his head at her.

Tashigi on the other hand felt confused. There was something about this man before her. He wore a marine outfit, but she never remembered seeing someone like that in the registry for Koby's fleet. She adjusted her glasses to try and get a closer look at the man. She certainly didn't recognize any man with that beard and long hair before. In fact, his hair almost reached the floor with how long it was. How could anyone walk like that.

Luffy noticed her staring at him and looked back. He did feel a familiarity with her. Her glasses, her blue hair that was short and reached just below her jaw, the coat of a Vice Admiral slung on her shoulders as she also wore a light green buttoned shirt and pink pants. She had a sword attached to her waist, one that Luffy never saw before. It had a red hilt that was attached to a black scabbard.

"Ah, sorry. Tashigi-san..." Koby caught her attention as she looked over at him. "...this man...is someone you know..."

"Huh? I do?" She looked back and the both of them were now staring at each intensely trying to remember each other. "Sorry, Koby-san...I don't seem t-"

"AHHHHH! Luffy suddenly slammed his hands on the desk, causing the three of them to flinch. "I remember you know! You're that glasses girl who was always with Smokey! Tapipi!"

"IT'S TASHIGI!" She corrected him angrily. She then paused when she realized her mention Admiral Smoker.

"Wait, you know Smoker-san..." She blinked when another realization hit her. "...wait Smokey?"

"Shishishishi! How is Smokey? Is he still a Marine?" He directed the question to Koby.

"Ah, yes. He's an Admiral like me now." Luffy opened his mouth in awe,

"Really!? Sugoi! Shishishi! Can't wait to see him again." Luffy simply laughed.

"Wait a minute!" Tashigi interrupted them. "Smokey? Whya re you calling him that!?" She asked.

"Why? Cause he's all smokey and stuff..." Luffy answered, remembering all the times he got caught in Smoker's grasp in Lougetown and then the battles they had between each other.

"That's not what I mean!" Koby tried to calm the swordswoman down.

"Tashigi-san. You may want to sit down." He told her, earning a surprise look.

"W-What's going on, Koby-san?" She asked, refusing to take a seat. Koby could tell she wasn't going to sit down and sighed.

"You see...you won't believe this but...this is..." Koby raised an arm towards Luffy.

"I'ts me, Luffy! Shi shishishi!" Luffy suddenly introduced himself. Koby was a bit taken back by his sudden introduction. He looked over at Tashigi to see her reaction and saw that she was staring at Luffy intensely.

"Huh? What do you mean you're Mugiwara no Luffy?" She asked him, not believing what she was hearing.

"Huh? What are you talking about? I'm Luffy." Luffy stared back, proclaiming who he was to the non-believer.

"Such a terrible lie." She replied, crossing her arms. "Mugiwara no Luffy died seven years ago during the war. There is no way you're him." Luffy furrowed his eyebrows at her.

"Tashigi-san..." Koby tried to tell her the truth, but she interrupted him.

"Koby-san! I understand you miss your friend and as much as everyone wants him to come back, this is just not possible. I don't know who this is, but there's no way he could be h-" Before she could finish her sentence, Luffy stretched his arm behind her, shocking Tashigi. Luffy grabbed a piece of fruit that was on a table by the door and frowned when he squeezed it and saw that it was a fake.

"What is this? Is this even real?" Luffy frowned as he tried to take a bite and tasted nothing but plastic. "Ew...gross..." He then tossed it behind him in disgust.

"EEEEEEEEEEEEEEHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Tashigi screamed loudly. This startled everyone, but Koby and Hibari fully expected this reaction. "N-No...that can't be...h-how...wait a minute...this doesn't make any sense! Y-You are supposed to be dead! You died seven years ago!" She tried to figure out the situation. "I-I get it, you must be just someone who found his devil fruit and ate it and..."

"Tashigi-san..." Koby placed a hand on her shoulder. "...I know this is a shock, but I have confirmed it myself. I would not have said anything unless I confirmed it myself. This really is Luffy-san. His devil fruit, his laugh, his scars, the way he acts, it's all Luffy-san." Tashigi took in his words and stared back at Luffy with widened eyes.

"No way...b-but how...?" Koby frowned.

"Sadly we don't know. Luffy-san can't even remember what happened during his fight with imu." He explained as Tashigi still couldn't believe this was real.

"Nope. I don't. Shi shishishi!" He laughed.

"W-What? T-This is just...you mean...this is really him...?" Koby nodded. Tashigi had no idea how to feel about this. She felt a little conflicted. She had been chasing Straw Hat for so long, she surprised herself when she decided to join him during the Great War. Along with Smoker and other Marines, she fought along side him to take down Imu and create the New World Government. She looked over at him and the conflicting feelings were still there, but she didn't hold any anger, any grudge towards him. Yes, he was a former pirate she tried to capture, but after what happened, all the Straw Hats had their bounties rescinded with Sabo taking over. "Wait...does Sabo-san know...?"

"Ah, not yet. I was hoping we'd see him soon when we pass by the Headquarters on the way to the North Blue."

"I see..." She turned to Luffy who was rocking side to side in the chair. "Still...I can't believe this..."

"Shi shishishishi! Me too. I have no idea what happened, but I can't wait to see everyone again. Oh, by the way, have you seen Zoro?" He asked her.

"W-What makes you think I know?" She adjusted her glasses, feeling a little embarrassed.

"Huh? Because you wanted to fight Zoro, no?" Tashigi sighed. She felt stupid for getting embarrassed about Zoro. She challenged him who knows how many times to retrieve his powerful swords, but she always lost.

"No." She answered. I haven't heard of his whereabouts in weeks." She told him. "I have people scouting for him, but I haven't heard back from them."

"Ah, then he probably got lost somewhere, Shi shishishishi!" Luffy laughed at his friend's terrible direction, not that he was any better.

"That explains why he's always a pain in the ass to track. You think he goes one way and he goes in a completely opposite direction." She grumbled in annoyance.

"I'm sure you'll find him soon again and beat him, Tashigi-san!" The blue haired girl smiled at her friend.

"Thank you."

"Well, in any case, we are heading first to Neveria. If we're lucky, she might be there." Koby san announced.

"Who?" Luffy asked.

"Like I said, it's a surprise. Oh, and one last thing, Tashigi-san. Don't tell anyone that Luffy-san is alive...at least not until we meet Sabo-san." Tashigi did question that decision, but sighed and agreed.

"Fine."

"Shi shishishi! I can't wait!" Luffy rocked back and forth as the battleship sailed across the sea.

~OP~

After almost 6 hours of sailing, Neveria was finally over the horizon. Koby, who was outside on the deck looked towards the sea and saw Neveria in the distance. He smiled as he knew Luffy would be excited to know they were almost there. Last he saw Luffy, he was fell asleep out of boredom and was knocked out on the couch, a small bubble on his face.

He wanted to tell him that they were getting closer, but held off until they got a bit closer. "We should arrive at Neveria in 30 minutes, Koby-san." Hibari walked over to him.

"Right. Do we have any information about any incidents?" He asked her.

"None that warrant your involvement, Koby-san. We also tracked to see if anyone was infected with Imunemia and we found at least 3 people. We have told the marines stationed there that we will be arriving and to prepare the infected for transport to Sakura." Hibari relayed to him as he nodded.

"I see..." He cursed mentally. More and more people seemed to have started getting infected with the disease. They needed to find a cure as soon as they can. "Very well, prepare the rooms. Make sure they are in a different part of the ship from our prisoner."

"Yes!" Hibari saluted and left to follow his instructions.

Soon, the island of Neveria got closer. Koby then walked towards the office to let Luffy know. When he got there, he saw Luffy was no longer there. "Huh?"

"SUGOI! THAT;S A HUGE TREE!" Koby's eyes widened when he heard Luffy's voice.

"Oi! Get down from there!" He heard one of his soldiers scream as Koby rushed out from his office. When he arrived on deck, he noticed everyone was looking up,s o he followed their gaze. Hanging on the mast, Luffy was staring in awe at Neveria's main attraction, a large tree that was the biggest tree Luffy ever saw. It was even bigger than the ones he saw at Sabaody. In front of the tree was a fairly large building with a dome shaped roof.

Koby sighed and placed a hand on his forehead. He should have known better than to leave Luffy alone for a bit, even if he did fall asleep. "Lu-I mean GRUNT!" He coughed for a moment before yelling at Luffy. Luffy didn't pay him attention as he didn't realize Koby was calling for him. Koby, realizing this, sighed again. Koby jumped up and sky walked toward Luffy to gain his attention which he did.

""Sugoi! You can do that, Koby?" Luffy asked in amazement.

"Of course. I learned it a while ago. Anyway, we are about to reach the island, so come back down and don't use your powers. The other officers are staring at you." Luffy grinned and nodded.

"Okay!" He jumped down and landed on the deck. He laughed and took a step forward, only to land on his long hair and trip forward. Everyone just looked at him in confusion as Koby sighed for a third time.

"I figured he'd slip with how long that hair is." Tashigi commented, crossing his arms as she arrived on deck.

"Well, not like he had an opportunity to ever get it cut." Hibari commented, standing next to the blue haired swordswoman.

"He could at least tie it or something." Tashigi added.

"I guess..." Hibari walked over to Luffy. "Oi, you want me to tie your hair?" Luffy raised his head to look at her.

"Huh?" Luffy asked tilting his head.

"You hair! Do you want me to tie in like a ponytail so you stop tripping on it." She offered again.

"Ah, really? You really are nice!" Luffy grinned at her.

"WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY THAT!?" She yelled at him for his rude comment. "You know what, forget it!" She turned around and stomped away, leaving Luffy confused.

"Hibari-san, can you?" Koby dropped down next to her.

"Anything for you, Koby-san!" She proclaimed and did a spin to go back. Koby chuckled at the girl as he watched her tell Luffy to get up so she could tie his hair.

"She likes you, you know." Tashigi said as she approached Koby.

"I know." His answer surprised Tashigi.

"Huh? You knew?" Koby bashfully chuckled.

"Kind of hard to not notice." She eyed him carefully.

"So why not..you know..." She asked, trying to gauge on him. Koby simply stared at Hibari as she gathered Luffy's hair together.

"...I don't know..." He answered honestly. "...I guess I'm just scared..."

"Huh? Scared of what?" She asked.

"...that if I screw up...our relationship would change...she might start hating me instead..." Koby explained.

"I see...I guess I don't have any rights to tell you what you should do...but I'm sure it'll work out." She offered her input.

"...maybe you're right...ah wait..." Koby turned to her. "...you have someone you like too?"

Tashigi's face got red and flustered as she realized what she said. "N-NO! I DON'T! WHAT GAVE YOU THAT IDEA!?" She stuttered bashfully as she gave him light punches.

"Ah sorry...I didn't mean to...sorry..." Koby put up his arms to defend himself from her.

Both Hibari and Luffy looked over at the commotion. Hibari felt something tight in her chest at the reaction the two had and frowned. Luffy noticed this and had no idea what made her upset.

"What's wrong?" He suddenly asked, making the girl jump a bit.

"It's nothing! Turn around so I could finish tying your hair!" She yelled, pushing him to face forward. She began to tie his hair into a ponytail and whens he finished, she softly muttered, "...you don't think Koby-san has a thing for..." Luffy heard her, but he wasn't sure what she was talking about.

"Huh?" Hibari shook her head. She couldn't believe she muttered something like that with someone she barely knew. The only connection she had with this former pirate was that he was Koby's friend.

"Nothing!" She finished tying the hair band and let go of his hair. Luffy looked behind him and snickered at his ponytail.

"Shi shishishishi! Look, it's like I got a tail!" He started moving his head back and forth to whip it around.

"OI! WATCH IT!" Hibari screamed, avoiding his ponytail.

"Shi shishishshi!" He laughed. He then looked at her with a small smile.

"What?" She asked, confused a bit by his smile.

"Thank you." He thanked her. "Oh, and I think Koby likes you a lot."

"Huh!?" Hibari's eyes widened at his words. A small blush on her face.

"Shi shishishishi!" Luffy laughed and then just ran off to get a view of Neveria.

"Oi! You can't just run off after telling me that!" She screamed at him, waving her arms around.

Koby smiled before walking over, placing a hand on Hibari, giving her a warm smile. He then walked over to Luffy, leaving a flustered Hibari to her thoughts and daydream of her and Koby. He approached Luffy and stood next to him.

"Well, we're almost there. Hopefully, she's there." Koby told him.

"Huh? Who?"

Koby only smiled.

~OP~

"Sensai!" A group of children ran towards the large dome shaped building, waving their hands towards the beautiful woman standing in front of it. She was getting ready to enter the building when she heard their voices and looked at them with a warm smile.

"Hello. Are you enjoying the books you borrowed?" She asked them with a mature voice.

"Hai! Thank you for lending it to us! Robin-sensei!"

Nico Robin smiled and chuckled as she smiled warmly at the children who had a huge thirst for knowledge. "I'm glad."

END

Chapter Text

“FINALLY!!! A NEW ISLAND!!!” Luffy roared as he landed onto the ground from Koby's ship and chuckled. Everyone at the port turned to the excited individual, giving him questionable looks before returning back to whatever they were doing. Luffy looked around and felt his entire body get excited at the chance to explore a new island. It gave him the same feelings he had when he was sailing the seas as the Captain of the Straw Hat Pirates. “Yosh! Let's g-”

“Would you calm down!?” Hibari yelled as she smacked Luffy across the back of his head.

“What was that for?” Luffy yelled at her. It didn't hurt him, but he was annoyed she interrupted him.

“Did you already forget what Koby-san told you? You have to keep a low profile!” Luffy tilted his head.

“Oh right...” Luffy remembered Koby's words. “...but that's boring...”

“Who cares!?” She retorted. She sighed and placed a hand on her head. “How in the world did your crew handle you?” She wondered.

“Shishishishi!” Luffy could only chuckle. He knew he was sometimes a handful, but this was who he was.

“Now, now.” Koby arrived and walked towards him. “I did say that, but as long as Luffy-san doesn't do anything to attract attention, it should be fine.” Luffy grinned at his friend.

“Right!” He nodded. Hibari could only sigh, but felt herself calm down from Coby's voice.

“For now, let's head over to the Library. If we're lucky, Luffy-san might meet one of his crew mates there.” At the mention of a reunion with a former member of his crew, Luffy perked up and got excited.

“Really!? Yosh, let's go!” Luffy exclaimed and tried running in the direction he randomly chose.

“Ah, wait a minute!” Hibari however, was able to stop him from going to far. “That's not the way! Why are you so difficult!?” Luffy only laughed.

Koby chuckled a bit as he walked toward the right direction. “Over this way.” He called out to them. Luffy grinned and ran over to the Admiral as Hibari sighed and soon joined them.

~OP~

“You seem happy today, Robin-sensei.” A wise gentleman with a white bushy beard and white messy hair noticed how cheerful his colleague was.

“Hehehehe~ Am I?” She answered, not looking away from her book.

“You certainly do look so.” The man stood up, grabbing his cane. He grabbed the book he indulged himself in and walked over to the shelf, placing the book into the empty slot. “Did you discover something new?”

“No.” She smiled. “I guess you may be right, Benji-san. Today does seem different. I can't really explain it. Maybe I'm happy the younger children are taking an interest in history.” She remembered fondly the children who returned their books only a few hours ago.

“Hmm...well it is good to see the youth have an interest in history. Mostly thanks to you, of course, huehehehe.” He chuckled and scanned the shelves for a book.

“Hehehehe~ I wouldn't say that much.” Robin closed her book and stood up. She was strikingly beautiful. She had a long peach colored coat that she wore on her shoulders to keep herself warm. Under it, she wore a light purple, v-neck, short skirt dress and black leggings with black heels. She removed her glasses and placed her book down on her table. “However, I am grateful for being able to finally be free to spread the true history of the world. No more hiding the truth, I just wished the researchers of Ohara were able to be here to see that their deaths were not in vain.”

The older man, who wore a white coat, white shirt and beige dress pants with brown boots, gave a warm smile. “Yes. I may not have known them personally, but I have studied their research for years when the books became public known. All thanks to you and your crew.” Robin smiled fondly.

“Ee...it's been so long since I last saw them. However, I know they're all doing well and off doing their own things. I'm sure that's what my Captain would have wanted.” Robin softly frowned at the memory of her Captain. She truly missed him. He was the man who helped her realize that she wanted to live. The person who helped her find her reason to live, to live for her friends. She could never forget what he and the others have done for her. However, he was sadly no longer with them.

She had always believed he didn't die that day, but the longer the years went by, the hope started to dwindle and the crew soon had to accept that Luffy was no longer alive. It was hard thing to accept, but deep down, she still had a tiny shred of hope for a miracle. Since it was Luffy, she never felt it was out of the realm of possibilities. After all, the amount of things the Straw Hat Pirates have seen and been through, there will always be hope in her heart.

However, the more the years go by, the harder it was to believe. So, Robin made sure to spend her time focused on the library. A place where more people had the opportunity to learn the true history of the world, without the fear of being persecuted. It was a success. With some help from her crew mates, they managed to build this place with her as the head librarian.

She loved that so many people were interested in the true history, especially younger children. It made her happy knowing that the scholars of Ohara would be so proud of her.

“Excuse me?” Robin-sensei?” A young woman's voice poked her head through. Robin and Benji turned towards the door and noticed the short, blond hair of a young woman. She wore glasses on her face, a white blouse, white skirt and white heels as she approached the two. “We have been informed that a special guest is arriving shortly to speak to you.”

Robin curiously raised an eyebrow. “Guest? I don't remember there being a meeting with a guest today?” She asked.

“Yes, however this message comes from the New World Government. Apparently, it's urgent that you see them today.” She handed her a piece of paper. Robin took it and glanced it over. It was definitely a message from someone high up from the New World Government.

“That is strange.” Benji hummed, rubbing his hand through his beard.

“Sabo?” Robin asked the young lady.

She simply shook her head. “It doesn't seem to be the case.” Robin looked back down at the paper.

“I see. Well, whatever this urgent meeting is about, it probably would be best to meet with whoever sent this.” Robin folded the paper and handed back to her. “Thank you, Gabi-chan. When they arrive, please let me know.” Gabi nodded her head and walked back to the main hall.

“That is a little strange, no?” Benji asked the black haired beauty. “It's not like the New World Government to suddenly arrive without any heads up. Do you know who this guest might be?”

“Hmm...no. If it isn't Sabo or Koala, then I have no idea. Should be interesting.” She smiled, suddenly feeling excited. She couldn't figure out why she was feeling so giddy today. Maybe this surprise guest was a part of that.

~OP~

A short while later...

The main hall of the library was bustling with excited patrons of all different ages. The smell of books surrounded the entire hall with so many people chatting, reading books and enjoying themselves. A beautiful statue of a woman dressed in a long robe was the centerpiece of the main hall. It was a statue of Robin's mother, Olivia, who became sort of like the Guardian of the Library. While the Library had no name, some have called it the Library of Scentia, named after all the knowledge that was available for anyone to read for free.

The Hall was fairly large with rooms leading to many sections of the Library. A few spiral stairs led up to even more areas, all accessible to the public. That was the intention. It was a library where there were no secrets, nothing that the public could not have access to. While people were able to read in the library with many desks, couches and seats available to read there, a simple library card was required to rent books out. Yes, this was the goal, the dream Robin wanted to achieve after her first one was completed.

There were rooms, bookcases and rows filled with books of different genres. Some fictional, some historical, some about weather and even a section for children who started learning how to read. They even had set dates for public reading, with volunteers reading out loud their favorite stories.

How did the library survive financially? Through donations as countless of visitors donated to make sure the library was kept clean, paid the employees, even the ones who volunteered were offered some form of compensation. It was also backed by the New World Government, as they understood the importance of making sure people knew the history of the world. So that the same events could never be repeated.

The Library was an incredible achievement that was beloved by anyone who visited it. Well, almost everyone.

A hooded man walked through the main hall. His scent incredibly foul as people he passed by closed their nose in disgust at the smell. Some even moved away from their seats to get away from him. The man muttered under his breath as he slowly approached the front desk.

Gabi, the secretary and librarian, for Nico Robin noticed the man and eyed him suspiciously. He stopped suddenly and turned to head towards the right, towards the history section.

“Burn...Burn...” He muttered just under his breath. He walked into the room and was immediately intervened by four members of the security staff. Marines who were stationed there approached the man, their pistols on the side of their hip, hands hovered just over the weapon. One of the Marines approached him.

“Sir. I have to ask you to leave. You are disrupting our guests.” He told the man.

“Burn...burn...I have to burn...” He muttered under his breath. The Marines felt their noses get hit by his awful stench and a couple lifted their hands to close their nostrils.

“Sir. I won't ask you again. Turn around or we'll...”

“BUUUUUUURRRRRNNNNNN!!” The man suddenly shouted and lifted his reddish coat. The Marine's eyes widened when they saw explosives attached to the man. Before they could even react, the explosives were set off and a large explosion occurred. The entire Library shook and the guests all screamed and cried out as the explosion was big enough to destroy parts of the wall and even destroyed parts of the outer wall. Black smoke started spreading across the main hall and throughout the rest of the library and outside as the citizens all began to panic.

Gabi, immediately stood up on the desk and started shouting instructions to evacuate the library. “Everyone! Please listen to me! Calm down and head to the nearest exits! If you require assistance please let the staff know so we can help you evacuate!” The staff all nodded and went to help any civilians hurt by the sudden explosion. The patrons headed toward the nearest exist they could find, screaming and some even crying to get to safety. Some had to put their hands over their mouths to prevent any of the black smoke from entering their lungs.

The civilians followed the instructions from the staff. Some ignored and were screaming as they ran for the exists, pushing people out of the way. Structures of the wall collapsed and pinned some people as staff did everything they could to remove the debris off of them.

Int he room that the explosion occurred, the marines that were caught in the explosion were scatted across the room. Their bodies laying almost lifeless with burns across their skin. They were fortunately still breathing. However, the situation was not good as a fire began breaking out, enveloping some of the bookcases and beginning to spread.

One of the staff members just outside the explosion area went inside to rescue the marines. When he saw the fire, he knew the safety of the marines were first. However, he also knew he couldn't let the damage get too much or they'll lose some important books about the history of the world. Valuable books that Nico Robin risked her life to save.

“Damn it!' He groaned and put a hand over his mouth to stop smoke from going into his body. He managed to spot a marine officer and got over to him. He slung his arm over him and dragged him out of the room, into the waiting arms of another staff member. “Take him! There's three more in there. They all are pretty banged up, but still breathing. However, there is a fire. We need to extinguish it before it spreads to the entire building.”

“Right! We contacted the Marines about the situation and they should arrive shortly,” The other staff member replied.

“Hopefully they get here in time. I'm gonna go grab the others before it's too late.” The two nodded to each other before heading in separate directions. One to help the other officers and the other to get the secured officer to safety.

Panic continued to set in as the commotion and chaos continued to developed in the library.

~OP~

“Was the explosion we just heard your doing, Benji-san?” Nico Robin calmly said as a cane was placed at her throat. Her arms were behind her, cuffed by sea stone cuffs that he latched onto her right wrist swiftly a few moments ago. Robin was fairly impressed with his slight of hand, thought the distraction of the explosion made her fail to see his swift movements to get the cuff onto her.

“Now, why would you say that?” He smirked. “I'm only an old man who has a thirst for knowledge. I don't know anything about explosives.” Robin frowned at his words. She knew Benji for a long time, five years in fact, so it certainly took her by surprise when he suddenly grabbed her hands as soon as the explosion occurred. “Though, I am surprised. I didn't think it would be this easy to grab you. I think you've gotten stale, Nico Robin.”

“You shouldn't talk to a woman like that.” Robin replied. While she may look calm and collected on the outside, she was beginning to feel the effect of the sea stone. It was making her feel weak.

“Sorry, but I don't care.” He replied. “Now then, you will do as I say or I will order another set of bombs to explode inside this building.” Robin didn't show it on her face, but she was mad. She wasn't mad that she didn't catch on to what Benji was trying, but mad that the place she built was being attacked by someone who she worked with for a long time and respected as a fellow scholar. There were only two things Robin hated. Someone hurting her friends and destroying books.

“What is it that you want?” She asked him. He pressed his cane closer to her neck, earning a slight flinch from her.

“The books you have hidden in your chambers. I want them.” Robin didn't react as she figured this was going to be the case.

“You really are a fool.” She replied. Benji glared at her and pressed a secret button on his cane. A tiny blade came out of the cane and Robin noticed a small dab of some purple liquid on the tip of the blade.

“I would be careful what your next words are. Killing you would be no problem for me. However, I need you alive. You have those ancient books hidden somewhere in your chambers and I need you to show me where.” He threatened her.

If it weren't for the sea stone cuff he had on her, dealing with him would be easy for her. However, she currently had no choice but to do what he said. She was worried about the safety of the people outside the room, as well as the state of the library. However, she knew if more bombs were set off, it would be harm more people and cause the library to suffer even more damage. She could not let that happen. “Fine.”

“Then, let's go.”

~OP~

“W-What happened?” Koby asked as he, Hibari and Luffy arrived at the library and saw the chaos. Hibari quickly ran over to a marine officer and asked him for any status report. When she got it, she headed back to Koby and Luffy.

“It seems there was a man who had explosives and set them off inside the library.” Hibari informed them. “Four Marine officers stationed here were hurt pretty badly, but the staff was able to pull them out and are now being looked at by doctors.”

“I see. Thank you, Hibari.” Koby nodded and walked forward. “Everyone! My name is Admiral Koby! Please listen to me! You must get away from the building. If you are injured in anyway, let us know. We have doctors ready to look over your injuries!” He announced as some relief and hope were seen on some of the faces of the civilians.

However, moments after his announcement, a piece of the outer wall of the building began to fall and right under the building were two children. They froze in fear as the debris was falling down on them. Koby noticed and was ready to move as fast as he could to rescue them, however someone else beat him to it.

Luffy pumped his legs, entering Gear Second and dashed towards the children, grabbing them and diving away from the spot as the debris crashed to the ground. The children held onto Luffy's shirt as he fell back first to the ground, protecting the children on top of him.

“That was close.” He told them as the two children, a boy, with black messy hair and a girl with pink hair looked up from his shirt and at Luffy. He grinned at them, reassuring them that it was alright. They had tears formed in their eyes as Luffy stood up and ran away from the building to safety. He let them go and they thanked him before running off and finding their parents.

“Lu-I mean Grunt! Are you okay?” Koby asked him as he ran towards him.

“Of course!” He grinned at Koby as he sighed in relief.

“Right. Thanks for saving them.”

“Un!”

Koby smiled and looked at the building. He couldn't believe this happened. It made him worried and knew he need to evacuate everyone from the building first. “Hibari!”

“Hai!” She saluted the Admiral.

“You're in charge of everyone's safety. That is top priority.” She nodded. “Luffy...” He whispered. “There's something you need to know. I wanted to keep this a secret until we got here, but the situation changed.”

“Hm?” What?” He asked, noting the serious tone.

“I went ahead and sent a letter to let a certain someone know you're coming. When we received word that they were going to let us meet them, I was able to confirm it. I also don't see them anywhere among the civilians, so I think she might still be inside.”

“Who?”

“Luffy...this library...it was built by Nico Robin.”

“Ah....”

~OP~

“So, where is it?” Benji asked as they entered Robin's private chambers. Her room was fairly large with bookcases surrounding the room. Hundreds of books were inside the shelves. She had a desk and a bed to sleep in and a door to the right that led to a large dressing room filled with her clothing. Another door, on the exact opposite side, led to her bathroom.

Nico Robin was pushed inside as Benji kept the cane with the small blade sticking out from the hole in the center at her neck. “Just tell me one thing. What do you plan on doing with those books?”

Benji smirked. “Isn't it obvious. I'm gonna sell them. From what I hear, these books are considered the holy grail that you treasure so much. If even you kept them a secret from the world, then they must hold some valuable secret that you don't want the world to know.”

Robin stared forward as she took in what he told her. “You're a fool...”

“Watch it...” He glared at her and growled threateningly. “...I'm the one in charge here, Nico Robin. Now, tell me where those books are!”

Robin sighed before turning her head towards one of the book cases. “Secrets of the Hondra Sea.” Benji looked over and saw the book she was referring to. “Take it out and a secret room will open.” He smirked at this.

“Perfect.” He then pulled her along with him and they both walked to the book case. He turned her and pushed his cane towards her neck again and pushed her back to the bookcase. He then used his other hand to grab the book she mentioned.

*Click

A sudden mechanism was heard and the bookcase to the left of them began moving back into the wall. It then slid to the left, disappearing behind another bookcase, revealing a secret room. Benji smirked and dropped the book to the floor and then grabbed Robin's arms. He moved forward, into the secret room and inside he saw four books neatly placed inside glass cases on four stands. His eyes widened.

“Finally...finally...I knew you were hiding something, Nico Robin. These will definitely go for a fortune each. I'm going to be rich!” He laughed as the images of him swimming in money ran through his head.

“Pathetic...”

“Huh?” Benji glared at Robin.

“To do all this. Attack the library, hurt innocent people and even burn books...all for money...you really are pathetic.” Robin told him. He gritted his teeth in anger.

“What the hell do you know, you bitch!” He yelled and tossed her backwards as she fell to the floor with a scream. He hovered above her as Robin glared up at the man. “You really think I cared about some useless books about history!? Knowledge is power! No! Money is power! You think because of what you and your dumb crew and Captain did would change that!? Society doesn't change because some pirates decide to destroy some old regime. Money will always rule! Money is what separates us from insignificant bugs to kings! That will never change!”

Robin frowned at how deprived this man's mind became. She never believed for a second that the world and how society viewed it would change. She just didn't want the world, the people to continue living in the shadows. She wanted people to be informed of the destruction the old world tried to hide from them. She wanted the world to know the truth, so that it never be repeated again. That's what she fought for.

“I never expect it to change, nor do I expect you to change. It's too late for you. You've become obsessed with money and hurt people. You destroyed this library that I built to preserve the true history. So that we never make the same mistakes again. You...you wanted to ruin that for money. You truly are pathetic.” Robin proclaimed with pride.

Benji glared and gritted his teeth in anger. “Continue believing in that nonsense! As time passes, the world will forget the past and people will forget this library, this history you want to preserve and protect.” He took his hand and removed the lower half of his cane to reveal another blade, this one sharper, longer and dabbed a bit more of whatever poison he was using. “I don't like a quick death. I rather watch you suffer as the poison slowly kills you.” He menacingly glared down at her.

“How nice of you...” She smiled softly.

“Your smile is pissing me off! Die, Nico Robin!” He raised his arm, the blade rising above his head. He took aim at her before bring his blade down to strike her.

Robin closed her eyes. She knew there was no way of getting out of this situation. The sea stone cuffs made her too weak to move out of the way. As the blade descended, she thought back about her life. Her mother, Saul, the rough past she had to endure for so long and then the happy memories of her beloved crew. She missed them dearly.

Her last memory however was that of her captain. She wondered what he would think of her giving up like this.. She was to weak to move, but she wondered if Luffy would have told her to try anyway. She missed him. She missed his cheerful smile and antics that not even she could predict. He, along with the others, brought back her smile and joy. She was forever grateful for him and the others.

Now that she was near her end, maybe she might see him again, in the after life. If she could, then she was honestly okay with meeting her end here. Her only regret, was never being able to say goodbye to her crew.

'Everyone...thank you...especially you...Luffy...' The blade was a foot away from stabbing her in the chest when suddenly, a voice was heard.

A familiar voice.

“GOMU GOMU NO.....PISTOL!!!!!!” Robin's eyes opened wide as she witnessed an outstretched arm punch Benji right in the gut. The man spat out blood as he was hit hard in the abdomen. The force of the hit sent him flying into the bookcases behind him. He destroyed the bookcase and was met with a large dog pile of books that covered his entire body. The cane fell out of his hands and onto the floor. Blood dripped from the corner of his mouth as he groaned from the excruciating pain he felt from the attack before losing consciousness.

Robin stared at Benji's body, but her thoughts were not focused on him. Instead, they were focused on that very familiar voice.

She felt weak, but used every ounce of her strength to sit up and turn her body towards the door. Her eyes widened. Tears formed in her eyes.

HEY, ROBIN!

LOOK ROBIN, IT'S AN ISLAND!

SHI SHISHISHI! YOU KNOW EVERYTHING ROBIN!!

TELL ME YOU WANT TO LIVE!!!!

ROBIN, THAN-HMNG

YOU SURE DO LOVE BOOKS, ROBIN!!

LET'S GO, ROBIN! LET'S GO ON MORE ADVENTURES!

“DON'T YOU DARE HURT MY FRIEND!” Robin couldn't believe what she was seeing. She could tell. Even with the long hair and the marine outfit he wore, she could never forget him. His appearance may have changed, but the familiarity, the voice, the aura, the sense of hope that she felt all those years ago was now standing in front of her. Alive.

Robin couldn't believe what she was seeing. She could tell. Even with the long hair and the marine outfit he wore, she could never forget him. His appearance may have changed, but the familiarity, the voice, the aura, the sense of hope that she felt all those years ago was now standing in front of her. Alive.

“L-L-Luffy...” She managed to get out as the man lowered his arm and looked down at Robin. He then gave her his famous toothy grin.

“Hey, Robin! I'm back! Shi shishishi!” She lost control at that point and tears quickly ran down her face.

“LUFFY!!” She cried out. All the emotion and pain she felt for the past seven years erupted. She couldn't believe it. He was alive. She really hoped this wasn't a dream. She really did. It would have been one cruel dream that she never wanted to wake up from. She suddenly got a small burst of strength to stand up and stumbled towards him. Luffy quickly got over to her and caught her in his arms as she cried into his shirt.

Luffy smiled at her and rested his hands on her back. He slowly lowered her down and let her cry into his chest. He wasn't a dream. She could feel the heat emitting from his body. She could smell his musky scent. He was actually here, alive and breathing. That joyful feeling she felt all day was now clear to her. While this was the last thing she expected to happen, it truly made her overjoyed more than anything else that could have happened. Her Captain was alive. That was the greatest gift she could ever receive.

END

Chapter Text

“Has the entire place been evacuated?” Koby asked Hibari. She nodded her head as the fire was extinguished a short while ago. The damage to the building was significant and a majority of books were burned and unrecoverable. Unfortunately, while there were no civilian casualties, two of the four marines who confronted him perished in the explosion, the other two were fighting for their lives. He hoped they survive.

“Yes. Aside from a few injuries, all the civilians seem to be safe.” Koby was relieved there were no innocent casualties.

“Do we know exactly what happened?” Hibari took out a piece of paper that she used to get answers from one of the marines and recounted his statement to the Admiral.

“It seems a hooded man came into the building and detonated explosives. He remembers the man smelling really bad and screamed out 'Burn' before he got knocked out from the blast.” Hibari told him. “Then when the older man named Benji was retrieved by the Grunt and Nico Robin, we learned that he was the person behind it all. He apparently wanted some secret books that she hid in a secret compartment. He tried attacking her, but was saved by the grunt.” Hibari answered.

“I see. That's good. So...Luffy reunited with a member of his crew.” He said the last part softly, showing a small smile.

“Hai.” She nodded, a small smile of her own.

“Where are they now?” He asked, looking around for them.

“As soon as the fire was extinguished, they went back inside. I think Nico Robin wanted to show him something.” She answered and looked at the Library. “Oh, right. Robin also told me that Benji, the old man we arrested, mentioned something about him threatening her with another explosion. I set out a search team to confirm the validity of his threat.”

“Well done, Hibari.” His compliment made her blush.

“T-Thank you, Koby-san!” She saluted her Admiral.

“Is the culprit conscious? I have a few questions to ask him.”

“Yes. We currently have him being held away from the civilian section. I'll lead you to him.” Koby nodded.

“Thank you.” He looked over to the building and smiled softly. 'I'll let them catch up for now...' With that final thought, he followed Hibari towards the culprit.

~OP~

Robin was incredibly blissful. Her captain was alive and breathing right in front of her. He was also...eating all the food she had with a big grin on his face, a sight Robin was ecstatic to see. He was still filled with so much life, just like she remembered him. It was such a nostalgic and heart warming feeling.

Luffy finished the last piece of food and awarded himself with a few slaps on his bloated stomach. “That was so good! Thanks, Robin!”

Robin giggled warmly. “You're welcome, Luffy.”

“Shi shishishishi!” He laughed alongside her. “By the way Robin, what was up with that guy? Why was he trying to hurt you?” He asked curiously with a tilt of the head.

“Oh, nothing too serious. He was just a fool who wanted something that was worthless. A greedy old man.” Robin replied.

“I see. What did he want?” He asked as Robin smiled. She stood up from her seat on the floor next to him and entered her secret room. Luffy watched her pick up a book from one the glass cases and came back. She sat down next to him and showed him the book. “A book?” He blinked, feeling a little confused.

“Yes. He believed I was hiding this and the other books from the library because they were valuable.” She answered with a warm smile. “While he might be able to sell these for a good amount, they wouldn't be worth as much to anyone besides myself.”

“Hmmm...so like my hat?” He asked with a grin.

“Hehehehe~ I guess you can say that. However, they can also be considered your treasure as well.” She told him and he stared at her in slight confusion.

“Huh? Why?” She smiled before turning to the first page.

“Straw Hat Pirates: Logbook 1” She read out loud and Luffy's eyes widened.

“Huh? You mean that's...” Robin nodded and smiled fondly.

“These are the logbooks we used to write down all our adventures. Of course they are only just copies of the real ones, but I wanted to write a copy of all our logbooks and then release them eventually for everyone to read and know about our adventures.” She explained. “The only reason I hid them was because they weren't ready yet.”

“Sugoi...that's so cool, Robin.” He grinned widely as he returned to normal and was no longer bloated.

“Hehehehe~ I'm glad you think so.” Robin happily chuckled. “If you're curious about the original logbooks, several of us kept one in case someone wanted to go after them, at least until I finish copying them.”

“I see. That's good.” Luffy then wondered about the others. “How is everyone else doing?”

Robin smiled. “From the last time I heard from them, they were all doing well.”

“That's good!” Luffy snickered happily.

“Sadly, I haven't heard from some of them in a while, but the others tend to keep tabs and let me know how everyone is doing. It's been tough not being able to see everyone everyday like before, but...” Robin added.

“I see...sorry...” Robin softly gasped, but she shook her head immediately.

“Don't be. It isn't your fault. To be honest, some of us wondered what would have happened at the end of our journey. Some of us started thinking about our lives afterwards.” Luffy wasn't aware of these thoughts from his crew, but he also wasn't foolish to believe that they would eventually have to go their separate ways. He just never imagined the reason they'd do so was because of his 'apparent death'.

“Sorry...I...don't remember anything...” Robin raised her eyebrows, but understood what he was referring to.

“I see. So, I guess asking you about what happened would be pointless.” While she was curious, she couldn't blame Luffy at all. She wanted to know, but if he couldn't remember than there was no point in pursuing the topic further. However, she could ask him one thing. “Luffy, how did you come back to us?”

Luffy tilted his head and hummed in thought. “Well, I don't remember how they found me, but I was helped out by this nice girl and her kid. They were really nice. They fed me and helped me get my memories back, Shi shishishishi!” Robin smiled, loving the sound of his laugh hitting her ears.

“I see. Then I should give them my thanks.” Luffy nodded.

“Yeah, we can when we go see them, Shi shishishi.” At that, Robin frowned. Luffy noticed and felt his chest tighten a bit.

“Luffy...sorry...but I don't think I can go with you.” Luffy mouth opened a bit and he sucked in his breath at her words.

“W-What? W-Why not?” Robin frowned as she looked down to the floor.

“I'm sorry. Your death left a huge hole in all of us. We didn't want to believe you died. We searched and searched, but never found anything. We...we had no choice to move on. I'm sorry.” Luffy shook his head.

“No, don't be. I don't blame you guys at all. I understand. It was the right thing for you guys to do. I wouldn't want you guys to keep searching for me if there was no way you could ever find me. I'm glad you guys moved on and continued living. It makes me happy to know that you at least tried.” He smiled at her. “I mean, look, this is your place, right? I may not know much about books, but even I can tell this place is incredible. I'm so happy for you, Robin!”

Robin felt tears well up in her eyes. She then couldn't help, but cry again. For years, she felt guilty, as well as everyone else did, that they couldn't find him. That they had no choice, but to eventually give up their search. She, and the others, would talk about 'what ifs' and so on with each other whenever they saw each other and talked about him. They were so worried that they didn't search hard enough to find him. While he couldn't remember what happened to him, just seeing him, talking to him, hearing he forgave them was more than enough to make all these years of guilt go away.

Luffy softly smiled at her as he watched her cry. He moved over to her and gave her a soft hug, for which she returned as she cried into his shoulder. “Thank you...Luffy...”

“Of course...that's what friends are for, Shi shishishishi.” Robin really loved hearing the sound of his laugh and couldn't help but laugh along. Instead of her usually calm and soft laugh, she laughed with him in the same way her savior, Jaguar D. Saul laughed, making Luffy grin happily.

“Dere shishishishi.” The two shared that slight moment together, just feeling the warmth they brought together from the tender hug. They pulled away and Robin rubbed the tears from her eyes. She then smiled at Luffy and took a better look at her now older Captain. To say Luffy didn't turn out to be more handsome as he got older would be an understatement. His face was a bit more chiseled and was helped out by the beard he had growing around his chin and jaw, making him look more mature. He was even slightly taller than the last she remembered him. The most surprising feature that she noticed was his long hair, wrapped in a ponytail. “It's very weird seeing you with longer hair, hehehehe~”

Luffy blinked and reached behind him to grab his ponytail. “Really? Shi shishishi! I guess it does. I kept tripping on it so that Marine girl who is with Koby tied it so I didn't do that anymore.”

Robin couldn't help the chuckle. “I see. That makes sense.” Her imagination took over. The image of Luffy running and then tripping on his long hair brought a pleasant imagery in her mind that made her giggle. She then went back to the topic of what happened to Luffy. “Koby-san, he was the one who find you, right?”

Luffy nodded. “Yep. After I walked around and stopped this guy from hurting Mary's daughter. Koby looked for me and then helped me get my memory back.”

“I see. I assume Mary is the person who helped you.” Luffy nodded. “That's good to hear.” She then frowned again as the topic from before resurfaced. “I wish I could go to thank her personally, but...I can't leave.” Luffy frowned and put his head down. “It's not that I don't want to, but like I mentioned before, we have new lives now. This library is my pride and joy. After what happened today, I have to stay to assess the damage and help start the rebuilding process. So...I'm sorry that I can't join you.”

“I get it, Robin.” Luffy looked up and gave her a small smile. Robin felt her chest tighten a bit. The smile was warm, but also sad. She knew Luffy wanted to get the whole crew together and go back on adventures like the old days, but it was difficult. She was needed here. If the events of the day didn't happen, then maybe she would have gladly accepted his offer and go on more adventures. She wanted to relive those fun experiences and see the world again. See her crew mates again. See their reactions when they see that Luffy was alive. The timing was just utterly terrible.

“If there was anyway I could, I would instantly go with you.” Robin added.

Luffy pouted but nodded his head. “I know...”

Robin gave the boy, no, man a soft smile. “Maybe later on you can come by and pick me up. Then I can join you and the others. However, Luffy...please understand that the others might not join you either.” Luffy gasped at that. While he did think of the possibility that they wouldn't join either, hearing it from Robin hurt more than he thought it would. Could he really sail without his entire crew ever again?

“I...” He didn't have any response to that realization. He really wished things turned out differently. He really wished he didn't disappear from their lives for seven long years. Things might have been different. “You're...probably right...” He muttered, lowering his head.

Robin cursed herself as she wanted nothing more than to sail with him again. However, she had responsibilities and needed to stay. She really hated Benji. “I'm sorry...”

“Don't be.” He lifted his head and grinned. “I understand and I don't blame you.” He then stood up. “It'll be fine. I'm gonna go see the others and if they also decide not to join me then I will respect their choice. As their Captain, that's all I could do.”

Robin looked up at him and smiled warmly. He truly was their Captain and a tremendous one at that. He respected them as equals and would never force them to do anything. They all had their new dreams and responsibilities and he was going to respect their choices. “You're right. Thank you, Luffy.”

“Shi shishishishi!”

~OP~

“Take him away.” Koby ordered some Marine Grunts as they dragged Benji away. He struggled a bit before forcing out a few final statements.

“H-Hold on a minute! That guy that attacked me! He was him wasn't he? He was...” Koby activated his haki and knocked out Benji as he foamed in the mouth and became limp. He was dragged away as Koby sighed.

“Talk about some troublesome news...” Koby rubbed his temple as he felt a headache form.

“Koby-san?” Hibari whispered as he turned to give her a smile.

“I'm fine. I just didn't expect him to be a member of Crux.” Hibari frowned and nodded in agreement. “They've been causing so much trouble lately. What's worse is that they are using those infected with Imunemia to carry out some despicable acts.” Koby felt his stomach turn at the thought.

“The man who set off the explosives...he was infected too?” Koby nodded.

“While he could be lying about that, it's still too risky to overlook. Make sure everyone get tested to make sure he didn't spread the illness to anyone before the leave.” Hibari nodded and saluted.

“Yes, sir!” She turned and took a few steps towards another Marine grunt to pass on the order.

“Robin-sensei! You're alright!” Koby became alerted to the yelling and shouting as he turned his head to see Robin emerge from inside. He watched with admiration as the looks of staff and civilians greeted her with smiles and relief.

Koby smiled. After everything Robin had to go through in her life, the image of people being happy to see her was a sight to behold. He looked over and saw Luffy standing a few feet behind her, a happy smile on his face. However, he could tell there was a bit of sadness in that smile. 'I see...I guess that means she isn't...' His thoughts trailed off.

Luffy spotted Koby looking at him and grinned while waving his hands at him. The Admiral smiled and walked over to him. He stood by his side as they both watched Robin being greeted happily by admirers, children and people who were grateful for everything she had done. They stayed silent as Koby had a hard time bringing up any conversation about what happened between the two. He hoped he was wrong, but with the way he smiled earlier, he was not expecting a happy result.

“Robin is not coming.” Luffy suddenly said. Koby frowned.

“I see...sorry...”

“Why? You helped bring me to her. Thanks...but I get why she can't come...sucks though...” Luffy lowered his head as his bangs covered his eyes. Koby turned his head slightly to Luffy and felt sorry for his friend. He knew this was very tough on him. He wanted to help, but if this was something that was already decided, then there was nothing he could really do.

“Robin-sensei, will the Library be closed now?” A child asked as she looked down at him and gave him a soft smile.

“I'm afraid yes. For the time being...until we can assess the damage and start rebuilding her. Don't worry, I know she'll be back and be stronger than ever.” Her smiled widened as it gave hope to the group of people.

“We will gladly wait!”

“Yeah!”

“I can't wait to see it when it gets fixed!”

Luffy couldn't help the smile on his face. Seeing so many people happy around Robin was great to see. He couldn't be happier for his friend and former crew mate.

“Ummm...” Both men turned around to see Gabi standing behind them. Her hands rested in front of hos as she gave a small bow to them. “Sorry to interrupt. My name is Gabi. I'm Robin-sensei's secretary.”

“Secre-what?” Luffy tilted his head in confusion.

“Secretary. She's Robin-san's assistant.” Luffy blinked and then remembered the blue haired guy from Water Seven having a secretary.

“I see.” Luffy nodded anyway.

Gabi assumed he was probably still confused about her job and simply moved on, and continued speaking. “You're Robin-sensei's friend, no?”

“Un. I am. She is...I mean was a member of my cr-”

“Shhhhhh!” Koby hissed as quietly as he could to silence Luffy. “Yes, Robin-san and he go way back, hahahahaha! They met each other during the war seven years ago.” Coby chuckled, rubbing the back of his head. However, he did catch the past tense Luffy used, which told him more than enough that Robin was not going to come along with them.

“I see...” Gabi narrowed her eyes at Luffy through her glasses as Luffy became a bit uncomfortable by her staring.

“W-What?” Luffy asked, feeling a bit agitated.

“Sorry, I didn't mean to stare...Monkey D. Luffy.” Both men were surprised to hear her say his name.

“W-Wait...you know who he...” Gabi nodded.

“Robin-sensei spoke very highly of you from time to time whenever we hung out together. Most importantly, I was also helping out with her work on her new rendition of the logbooks of your adventures, so it would make sense that I would recognize her Captain.” She spoke as she saw the scar under Luffy's eye.

“I-I see...please...we beg you...don't tell anyone.” Koby asked the girl.

“I do not plan to, don't worry.” She responded as Koby sighed in relief.

“Is there something you want from me?” Luffy asked, tilting his head slightly.

“Yes. I have a request, if you don't mind listening to.” Luffy blinked and wondered what this request was. “I wish for you to take Robin-sensei with you.” Luffy made a small gasp in surprise.

“Why?” Gabi adjusted her glasses.

“You see. Robin-sensei was always good at hiding her emotions. However, the more you get to know her, the more you see through her. She always felt a bit sad whenever I would speak with her. No question, it was more than likely about you. I can tell, whenever I helped her out with copying your logbooks, that she missed you and the journeys she had with you. She had done so much for me and gave me an opportunity when no one else did, so I want to help her in anyway I can. The moment I saw you and recognized who you were, I knew her Captain was back. I knew this would be her chance to be happy again and experience those adventures she missed. That's why I want you to take her with you.”

Luffy stared at her as if he was in thought. He lowered his head. “Sorry, but I can't.” Gabi didn't react to his response.

“May I ask why?” Luffy looked back at her.

“She said no. I can't make her do anything she doesn't want to.” He replied without going into specifics.

“I see.” Gabi looked over to Robin. “I had a feeling that would be the case. I'm also guessing that her reasoning is because she feels she has a responsibility to this library as its creator, correct?”

“yeah.” Luffy nodded.

“Then, that makes things easier.”

“Huh?” Luffy tilted his head.

“Excuse me for a moment.” Gabi bowed and walked past the two and approached Robin. “Robin-sensei.”

“Hm? Ah, Gabi-san. I'm glad you are alright.” Robin was relieved to see her secretary and closest friend of these past few years okay and uninjured.

“Thank you. I am glad you are okay too.” She responded back with a small smile. She then looked at everyone and took a small bow towards them. “I am sorry, but I need Robin-sensei's time, if you do not mind.” She told them. The group looked at each other and some gave her a nod before they dispersed, saying goodbye to Robin. Once they were alone, Gabi spoke to her again. “Please follow me.” She turned around and headed back to Luffy and Koby.

“Oh, good to see you, Admiral. Thank you for your help today and...well...” She glanced over at Luffy. “...hehehehe~ Thank you.” Koby smiled and gave her a nod, understanding what she was thanking him for.

“Shi shishishishi!” Luffy only chuckled as he placed his hands behind his head.

“Robin-sensei, I was speaking to them just a moment ago and I have a requested them to bring you along.” Robin was caught a bit by surprise by this.

“Gabi-san?” Gabi turned to Robin and lowered her head in respect.

“I want to thank you for everything you have done for me and the library. I truly mean it.” She began as Robin's eyes widened. “You have done more for me than I can ever repay. Which is why I want you to go on adventures again with your Captain.”

“Wait...Gabi-san...you know...” Robin was surprised by the revelation that she knew about Luffy.

“Yes. After spending enough time with you and all the stories you told...helping you copy the logbooks, it's only natural I would recognize the man you respect and consider your Captain.” Robin stared at her and sighed with a soft smile.

“I guess that's true...thank you...but I can't...I need to stay. After what happened to the library I...”

“Please do not worry about the library.” Gabi interrupted her.

“Huh?”

“I understand how important the Library is to you. Today's events was really terrible and I don't blame you for wanting to stay and help rebuild it.” She honestly told her without raising her head. “However, I cannot let this opportunity go to waste for you. You finally have reunited with your Captain. The stories you told me have always been of fondness and wonder. I can tell how much you missed him, your crew and the adventures. That's why I want you to go.”

“Gabi-san...but...” Robin was surprised by her words. While she did want to go with him, to go on adventures again with her Captain, she knew it was her responsibility to be here. To help with the rebuild.

“...please Robin-sensei. Do not worry about the Library. I will take responsibility and rebuild the Library back. Please, allow me the chance to do this. I want you to do what will make you happy. After everything you have done for me, this is the way I want to repay you. To give you this opportunity again. After all, it's not often a friend comes back to life, you know.” She raised herself and gave her a warm smile.

Robin felt her chest tighten and tears form in her eyes. “Gabi-san...thank you...” She gave Gabi a big smile in return as the two woman shared a hug with each other. Luffy and Koby watched with big smiles on their faces as well. Luffy wanted to jump in joy that Robin would be joining him. However, he wanted to hear from her before anything. It was difficult to hold back his excitement, but he did.

The two broke up the hug and Robin wiped the tears from her eyes. She was crying a lot more today than she had in the last few years. Today was a special occasion as she was filled to the brim with happiness. She then turned to Luffy and smiled warmly at her Captain. “Luffy...may I join you? Go on new adventures? Just like old times?”

Luffy grinned widely and he couldn't hold back his excitement. “OF COURSE!!!” He yelled out with his arms raised as she laughed at his answer. Koby wanted to shush him to not garner any attention, but decided against it. This was an exciting moment for him so he let it go. He smiled at Luffy, happy that he was going to sail again with a member of his crew. “Shi shishishishi!”

“Koby-san!” Koby turned his head to see Tashigi run over to him and saluted him.

“Tashigi-san...what's wrong?” He asked the Vice-Admiral.

“I received a report of the man I've been after being spotted nearby at Sabaody Archipelago. I request to go on ahead and go after him. We can then reconvene there.” Koby hummed as he stared at the determined look on her face.

“Hmmm...Tashigi-san...may I ask who this person is?” Koby asked as Tashigi groaned a bit.

“I...well...”

“Tashigi-san...I think I have a guess who it is...and I think they would like to know too.” He smiled looking back at Robin and Luffy. Luffy tilted his head in confusion as Robin chuckled softly, connecting the dots in her head.

“I...I guess you're right.” She took a deep breath before answering his question. “It's Roronoa Zoro!”

END

Chapter Text

"Do you have all that, Gabi-chan?" Robin asked the younger woman with a smile. The glasses wearing woman nodded as she looked up from the pieces of paper that held instructions and hopes from Robin in rebuilding the library.

"Yes! You can count on me, Robin-san. When you return, the library will look as good as new and even better than ever before." Robin giggled at her enthusiasm.

"Fantastic. Just don't go too overboard with some of the stuff. The main goal is to make sure the books are protected." Gabi nodded.

"Yes, ma'am." Robin giggled and thanked the girl for her help as she prepared to set sail once again with her Captain.

"ROOOOBBIIIINN!" The two woman turned their heads up towards the railing of the battle ship and saw Luffy waving his hands at his crew mate. "Koby says we're all set to sail!"

Robin giggled at her Captain's excitement. She turned to Gabi and gave her a warm smile. "Well, I guess I will take my leave. Thank you again."

"No problem, Robin-san. I know how much you must have missed sailing with your Captain so enjoy yourself. I'll take care of things here." Robin nodded and gave Gabi a warm hug. They embraced and when they pulled away, Robin took a look at the crowd around them. They were all patrons of the library who were grateful for Robin and everything she did. They all gave her words of encouragement and good luck as she was setting off to travel once more.

Luffy observed it all with a big smile on his face. He was incredibly happy to have reunited with one of his friends and crew mates. However, what made him happier was seeing the love and fondness the people were showing Robin. It made him ecstatic that people really cared about her, after what she had to go through.

Deep down, he had the fear of his crew unable to rejoin him on adventures. After all, he was gone for seven years. They must have had built new lives. He was ready to accept the thought they couldn't travel with him. However, he was happy that at least one of them was going to join him.

Next stop was Sabaody. Apparently Zoro was spotted near there, which meant that he was going to reunite with his first ever crew member. He had every right to be as excited as he was.

Robin said her goodbyes and gave one last look at the library she built and the giant tree behind it. She smiled fondly before heading towards the ramp and up onto the battleship.

She turned over to Luffy. "I'm ready to set sail, Captain!" She smiled.

"Yosh! Let's set sail!" Luffy cheered with a fist in the air.

"Did you forget whose ship this is…?" both Strawhats turned to Hibari who eyed Luffy.

"Ah…right…Koby! Lets sail!" Luffy yelled instead.

"Would you stop that!?" Hibari screamed at him as Robin chuckled.

"You really haven't changed, huh Luffy?" Her Captain grinned and chuckled along with her.

Hibari only sighed. "Seriously…"

"Now, now.. can't blame him for being excited." Koby told as he approached the group.

"Y-Yes…" Hibari stuttered.

"Yo, Koby! Come on, let's set sail already!" Koby chuckled.

"Right. Ah, but I must remind you that we are trying to keep your identity a secret, Luffy-san." Koby told him.

"Ah right…"

"Well, that explains the Marine Uniform on you, Luffy. Doesn't really suit you." Luffy nodded in agreement with Robin.

"Feels weird wearing one…" Luffy complained, earning a chuckle from her.

"Well, don't worry about it too much. We don't want to create any unnecessary commotion until we at least see Sabo-san." The Admiral told him.

"Shi shishishi! Can't wait to see the surprise look on Sabo's face." Koby and Robin chuckled.

"I'm sure he'll be delighted to see you. However, our next stop is Sabaody. Usually it would take days to get there, but since what happened and what you did, it takes only a day of travel by ship through Luffy's Gorge."

"Ah, that place named after me? Shi shishishi, it must be a cool place." Luffy felt his excitement rise.

"Hehehe~ I'm sure you'll love it. Speaking of which…" She turned to Koby. "…how much did you tell Luffy?" Robin asked.

"Not much, just a few key points. You'll probably be better at telling him about other stuff that happened in the past seven years, Robin-san." He replied with a sheepish smile.

"I see…I'll be happy too. What do you say, Luffy?" Luffy grinned.

"Oh, more stories and stuff? I can't wait to hear them!" Luffy's stomach then grumbled. "Ah, I'm hungry though."

Robin chuckled warmly. "Maybe it'll be better to tell you over some food."

"Shi shishishi! Yeah! Koby! Food!" Luffy exclaimed loudly.

"Oi! Don't just…" Hibari was going to scold him, but was stopped by Koby.

"Its alright, Hibari. I'm sure the two of them have a lot to catch up on." He turned to the two. "You can stay in my quarters for now. I have some stuff to take care of. If you need anything else, just ask Hibari."

"Huh!? Why me!?" Hibari asked in surprise.

"Please." He offered a warm smile to which she felt her cheeks get warm and red.

"O-Okay…"

~OP~

Robin giggled to herself as she watched Luffy devour food after food, just like he did during their sea faring days. It brought her so much warmth and nostalgia. It truly was great to see Luffy back and being his usual self.

"How in the world are you able to eat so much?" Hibari questioned as she the trio sat around Koby's desk. Luffy in the center, Robin to his right and Hibari across from him. She protested against Luffy sitting in Koby's seat, but Koby told her he didn't mind and left before she could protest. 'Honestly…you're too nice sometimes Koby…but I guess that's why I…' Hibari shook her heads from those thoughts. This wasn't the time to think about that.

"Luffy…here you go…" Hibari looked up and her eyes widened and her cheeks turned red as Robin took a fork, that Luffy didn't bother to use, and was basically trying to feed Luffy. Luffy turned and grinned as he leaned towards the piece of meat on the fork and chomped down on it. He gleefully chow down on the food as Robin chuckled.

"Thwanks…Robwin…" Luffy muttered with food in his mouth.

"Anytime." She replied with a wide smile on her face.

"W-What was that!?" Hibari suddenly screamed, standing up from her seat. The two turned to her and tilted their heads to the side in confusion.

"What is what?" Robin asked with a sly smile.

"Y-You were feeding him!" Hibari exclaimed.

"Hmm...is something wrong with that..." Robin picked up another piece of meat with her fork and fed it to Luffy. He chomped down on it in glee and chew his food. Robin was amused by the bashful look on Hibari's face.

"I...well...I thought that...you know...does that mean...you two...are a thing...?" Robin's eyes slightly widened at her question, but gave her a sly smirk. Hibari gulped at the seductive expression on the older woman's face.

"Oh...does it look like that...who knows...maybe we are..." Robin narrowed her eyes at Hibari before looking over at Luffy. The former captain of the Straw Hat Pirates was oblivious to the topic of the conversation as he continued to stuff his face.

"W-What!? N-No way..." The naïve and pure girl couldn't believe what she was hearing. She never imagined the two of them to be intimate with each other. It made her feel awkward for being there, but also jealous of their relationship.

"Hehehehe~ I'm kidding."

"Huh?" Hibari blinked at her and felt her face get red from embarrassment.

"Luffy and I aren't a couple, hehehe~. We're just really good friends. Besides, doing this is fun." She chuckled as she fed Luffy again.

"Yummy! Thwanks, Robin!" Luffy chuckled as he ate.

"N-No way..." Hibari felt so embarrassed from her poor assumption. She was acting like a teenager when she was a grown adult. She hid her face in her hands to hide from their gazes. "Urggghhh...I feel so stupid..."

"No need to be hard on yourself. It's perfectly normal to make that assumption." Robin told her.

"R-Really?" Hibari asked softly, looking up at her.

"Luffy is someone important to me. He gave me a home and allowed me to meet people who I cherish so much. He also allowed me to live my dream and the dream of the people of Ohara. I owe so much to him." She said while looking fondly at her captain.

"Shi shishishi! No problem, Robin!" He told her and went back to eating. Robin could only chuckle.

"I-I see..." The lieutenant

"However, I wouldn't say I never thought about it once." Robin confessed.

"H-Huh!? R-Really!?" The young new marine girl gasped at the revelation. "W-Wait, should you really be saying this in front of him?"

Robin chuckled. "It's all in the past, I don't carry any feelings like that anymore. Besides, I'm afraid of the competition."

"Huh?" Hibari blinked in confusion.

"Competition? There's a competition? Where? Is it a fun?" Luffy ears perked up at the mention of a competition.

Robin chuckled. "I guess there is one...though it's one you cant participate in per say."

"Huh? Booo...that sucks..." He pouted in disappointment.

"Huh? Wait a minute, you're saying there's multiple people who like him like that?" She exclaimed in surprise. "Oh, I didn't mean it like that, I'm sorry, I just...I'm just surprised..." She apologized realizing how insensitive her question came off as. Luffy only simply tilted his head, not sure why she was apologizing for.

"Hehehehe~ Luffy has his charms. If you know him long enough you'll notice them as well." Robin replied to her. "It never surprised me he'll be sought after...thought it would be quite a challenge for them."

"I-I see..." Hibari stared at Luffy who continued eating. 'I still can't see it...though...that doctor did seem to be interested in him...' She turned back to Robin. "Like who?"

Robin hummed. "Don't think it's my place to say. Especially with him here. Though, I do know one that isn't shy about hiding her feelings. After all, she asked him to marry her the first time I met her."

"W-WHAT!? MARRIAGE!?" Hibari couldn't believe what she was hearing. Someone wanted to marry him? Not that there was anything wrong with marrying him, she just couldn't believe someone was brave enough to outright ask someone to marry them.

"Marriage? Oh, you mean Hancock? Oh, I wonder how she is doing, Shi shishishi! We should stop by sometime." Luffy chuckled as he remembered the tall Empress of Amazon Lily.

"WHAT!? H-Hold up! Wait! The Empress? Really?" Hibari was stunned by this revelation. However, when she thought back to the war seven years ago, she did notice how the most beautiful woman in the world acted in front of him.

"Hehehehe~ We were shocked too. Never expected our captain to charm her." Robin chuckled.

"She always asks me that whenever I see her. It gets annoying sometimes. By the way, how is she?" He asked curiously.

"She's still technically the leader of Amazon Lily. However, she doesn't do much sea faring these days`. Though, a lot of people report that she barely comes out of her castle anymore. Been this way for seven years." Robin answered.

"Huh? Why?" Luffy asked, munching on a meat stick.

"Some are calling it a severe case of love sickness...I guess she couldn't handle your death well." Robin answered, eyeing her captain to see his reaction to the news.

"Huh? I see..." Luffy had mixed emotions. He was grateful for everything Hancock did, but to hole herself up in her castle was a weird thing to do because he died. He understood her feelings for him, maybe not completely, but her asking him constantly to marry him told him enough. He wanted her to continue living her life without worrying about whether he was alive or not. "I don't like her doing that." He blurted out.

"Oh?" Robin was slightly surprised by his response.

"W-W-W-Wait...does that mean you..." Hibari felt her heart beat against her chest.

"I won't marry her." Luffy bluntly said.

"H-Huh? W-What?" Hibari was shocked. She always heard about how beautiful Hancock was and when she first saw her, she was stunned at how beautiful she was. To think she wanted to marry Luffy was shocking. What was more shocking was how the man of her interest was not showing any interest in her.

"Hancock always asks to marry me and I keep telling her no. It gets annoying, but I know she's a good person. I just don't want to marry her." He replied and took another bite.

"S-So...you don't feel the same way?" Robin eyed her captain as she waited for Luffy's response to the Lieutenant's question.

"Feel the same way what?" He asked, tilting his head.

Hibari groaned. "I meant, do you like her? Like...love...?" She blushed.

"Love?" Luffy asked as he stared at her. The two felt their heart beats rise, wondering how Luffy of all people would respond. "...like how you love Koby?"

Hibari jumped from her seat and felt a huge blush show up on her face. Robin couldn't help the laugh escape from her mouth. Luffy truly never ceased to amaze how blunt he was.

"W-W-W-W-W-WHAT!? I-I...I-I DON'T...I...W-WHY WOULD YOU ASK ME THAT!?" She stuttered from the sudden embarrassing question.

"Hm? Did I ask something weird? I'm confused..." He looked over at Robin for help.

"The hearts of a maiden can be a very delicate one. You said nothing wrong, but bluntly asking someone if they love another person can be embarrassing. That being said..." Robin eyed Hibari. "...Admiral Koby-san...huh?" She smirked at her and it only made Hibari blush harder.

"N-No...I...wait! This isn't about me! I was asking you if you loved Hancock!" She tried to avoid talking about her infatuation with the pink haired Admiral. Luffy tilted his head.

"But I don't know what you mean by 'love' exactly. So that's why I wanted to know if you meant like how I love my brother or like how you love Koby."

"Stop saying that!" She yelled at him. "Why would I talk about familiar love anyway!?" Luffy groaned and pouted.

"I was just asking..." He told her. "Well, if you're not talking about that then my answer is no. That's why I keep telling her I don't want to marry her." He crossed his arms.

Hiabri sighed and sat back, feeling her entire body get hot from all the embarrassment she felt. "Geez...you really are going to give me a heart attack..." She told him and then eyed him. "The most beautiful woman in the world and you don't even want to marry her. I can't imagine any guy say no to her...except Koby-san of course...I mean no...I...damn it what are you making me say!?"

"Huh? I didn't do anything. Besides, I know she's pretty, but I don't care about that." Luffy replied, taking another piece of food.

"Oh?" Robin hummed, intrigued by his statement.

"You don't care?" Hibari asked.

"Of course not. I know when someone is pretty or beautiful. I don't care though. If I like them for who they are then I like them. Don't know about love though." Luffy answered honestly.

"So, you never felt love for anyone?" Hibari asked.

"N..." Luffy was ready to say no, but suddenly stopped himself. This made both woman look at him with slight surprise. He looked down at the food and stayed quiet.

'Why did he go quiet...?' Hibari wondered.

Robin's mind scrambled to all the possible people Luffy could have been thinking about. A few came to mind, but she couldn't honestly figure out who Luffy could be thinking about at this moment. She had a few reasons to give some more thought than others, but Luffy sometimes was complex in regard to his emotions and even she had a hard time figuring out what went through his mind. There was one she kept thinking back to, but she couldn't quite be sure if her assessment was right.

"I...I don't know..." He finally replied. He then went back to eating.

Hibari wanted to continue questioning him, but Robin stopped her, using her powers to place a hand to her shoulder. "Let's leave him be." She told her and Hibari sighed.

"Fine."

"So...how long have you liked Koby-san?" Robin gave her a teasing smile.

"DON'T CHANGE THE SUBJECT BACK TO THAT!" Robin chuckled.

"I'm just a curious person is all. Don't worry, we won't say anything to him." Hibari felt her face get red from their eyes on her and she looked down at the floor in embarrassment.

"I...I..." She debated with herself whether to confess to her about her feelings for the Admiral. She fiddled with her fingers before releasing a deep sigh. "A long time ago, I...I had lost my stuff toy bear...don't laugh..." She glared over at Luffy who tilted his head in confusion. She pouted and then continued. "...that bear...it was very special to me...I...I lost it during a battle with pirates and I thought I lost it forever. However, Koby-san...he...he spent night and day trying to find it because he knew how precious it was to me. He got scolded by our superiors, but defended himself because he somehow knew how important it was to me. I...I don't know why he did it, but he managed to find it and returned it to me. It made me...happy. I guess since then..." She smiled softly at the memory.

"That was very sweet of him." Robin smiled softly at the young girl. "Ahhh...young love..."

Hibari blushed and turned her head away with a deep scarlet blush on her cheeks. "S-Shut up..."

Luffy stopped eating before chuckling. "Man, Koby is such a great guy, Shi shishishi."

"Right!" Hibari perked up and agreed with excitement. However, she realized how excited she got and blushed in embarrassment. "I mean...yeah he is..."

"Have you told him?" Robin asked.

"What!? O-Of course not...I mean...I...can't..." Hibari waved her hands in front of her.

"Why?" Luffy was the one to asked with his mouth filled with food.

"Because it's embarrassing and...and...he might not feel the same..." Hibari replied, her voice lowering with each passing word. She felt her heart slightly ache at the thought of Koby not returning her feelings.

"Hmm...that's dumb..." Luffy bluntly replied.

"What would you know!?" Hibari asked, slamming her hands on the table.

"Let's calm down now. Sorry about that, Hibari-chan. Luffy sometimes is very blunt about things. He didn't mean anything bad about it. However, I do agree with him a bit." Robin spoke up to calm the young girl down. "Sometimes its better to confess than live life wondering about 'what ifs'. Granted you should do it when you're ready, but it's better to tell him than wait too long and lose your chance." Robin explained to her.

"I know...I know...it's just...I'm afraid..." Hibari replied softly with her head down.

"Just do it." Luffy added.

"You're really insensitive...you know..." Hibari glared at him.

"Luffy...this is something she has to do when she is ready..." Robin told her Captain.

"Hmmm...I just don't get it. Be honest and say what you feel. That's what I always did." Luffy retorted.

"That's all fine and dandy, but you're the last person to understand how this makes me feel..." She narrowed her eyes at him with a frown.

"Hmmm...really?" Luffy tilted his head and looked at Robin.

"Well, she may be right on that. Love is a complicated feeling, Luffy. Like you mentioned before. You don't know if you ever felt that way. Unless you do feel that way about someone, you might be hesitant to just say it out loud." Robin explained to him, hoping he might understand somewhat.

"Hmmm..." Luffy hummed.

"Besides, I'm fine with the way things are now. As long as I'm standing by his side, then I'm happy. One day, I will tell Koby that I-"

"Tell me what?" Hibari jumped up to her feet in shock as she heard the voice of her crush. She slowly turned her head and saw Koby standing behind her with a puzzled look on his face. Robin and Luffy both felt the mood of the room change as the Admiral and his lieutenant stared at each other. Hibari's face became hot in complete embarrassment.

"W-Wha...h-how...when did you...get here...?" She stuttered with her eyes spinning.

"Hm? Just now. I heard someone slam something and came here to check if everything was okay. Ah, Hibari-san...your face is red, are you getting sick?" Hibari couldn't handle the emotions building up in her body and stormed out of the room with a loud scream. "Ah! Hibari-san!?"

"Oh my..." Robin chuckled.

Luffy observed the scene while munching on his food as he thought about what Robin said. Did he ever feel Love? Sure he knew when people were beautiful and he loved his brothers, friends, his Grandpa and to an extent his Dad, but they never really got to know each other close enough for him to be sure. He loved Makino like a big sister and he also had love for his crew who he had so many amazing adventures with. Was that the same? No. He knew it was different...but he wondered if he did ever feel that way.

Luffy didn't know, but he did feel something. When Hibari asked him if he ever felt that way, he always felt confident that his answer would be that he never did. However, something stopped him from saying no. Some...mystery feeling. He didn't understand it.

Robin silently eyed Luffy, wondering what he was thinking about. Even after coming back to them, he was still the same Luffy. Yet, she felt something about him that was different. She didn't know what it was yet, but she was intrigued on finding out.

Koby turned and sighed. He turned to the two left in the room. "What happened?" He asked them.

"Nothing." Robin answered before Luffy had a chance to respond. "Let's just say girls are complicated." Koby tilted his head in confusion, but decided to just accept her response.

"I see. We should be approaching the Gorge soon." He told them as Luffy felt excited.

"Really!? I can't wait to see it!" Luffy chuckled. To see something named after him was a form of excitement he never experienced before and it made him excited.

"Hehehe~ It truly is a magnificent sight to see for the first time." Robin chuckled, feeling the level of excitement exploding out of her captain.

"Shi shishishi!" Luffy laughed, bouncing in his seat.

"Admiral!" A Marine grunt stood in front of the door to Koby's office as he saluted at him. Koby quickly stood in front of Luffy to hide him from the grunt's sight.

"Yes."

"I've been sent to inform you that we need to restock our food supply." Koby sweat dropped at the news as Luffy continued to eat behind him.

"I-I see...hahahaha...well then...we should definitely find a place to restock." Robin was heard giggling behind him.

"Yes! We also have received word that we will be able to at Luffy's gorge." The grunt told him.

"Hm? How?" He asked him.

"The Chateau Blue is currently docked there."

"Ah, I see. Then let us stop there. Thank you. You may leave and close the door behind you." The grunt saluted and closed the door.

"Oh my...hehehehe~" Robin giggled as Luffy looked over at her.

"Hmm? What's this chata blue?" Luffy asked.

"It's a restaurant, Luffy-san." Koby answered.

"Restaurant?"

"Ee. Owned by someone you and I know very well." Robin added with a wide smile.

"Huh? Who?"

~OP~

"How long do you plan on making me wait?"

"If all you're gonna do is complain, then get out of here, old man!"

"I would if you ever serve me my damn food!"

"Shut up! You will eat when it's ready! This is my restaurant, not yours!"

"Then, hurry up! I'm not young anymore!"

"You were never young!"

"Is this how you treat your customers!?"

"You're one to talk!?"

"Please, calm down. The food will be here shortly."

"At least someone here knows how to be polite. By the way, when you two getting married?"

"M-M-M-Married!?"

"Would you stop that!?"

"Then hurry up and get married and get me my food!"

"I will filet you!"

"Try me!"

"S-Sanji-san...let's not damage the restaurant again."

The blond hair man turned toward the voice and gave her a sincere and warm smile before bashfully rubbing the back of his head. His beard was tied in a braid that went down about a foot in length. his bangs were longer and slightly wavy at the ends, while covering one side of his face. His swirly eyebrow was as swirly as always and wore a chef's robe and hat over his suit.

"Ah. You're right, sorry Pudding-chan." The light brown hair girl blushed before turning away to avoid looking at him. Her short, shoulder length hair bounced with her movements as she her bangs were combed to the side, showcasing her third eye. After years of being conscious about what people thought of her third eye, she was now proud of it. After all, the person she cared about the most called it beautiful and his opinion was the only one that mattered to her. She wore a full chef's uniform with a small chef's hat on top of her head.

"D-Don't look at me like that, S-S-S-Sanji-san!" She responded loudly with heart eyes but a angry look on her face.

Sanji only chuckled at her reaction. He then turned back to the older man.

"Your food will be here soon, just wait old man." He told him.

"Fine, but hurry up already." The old man crossed his arms and lightly tapped his peg leg.

"Stop doing that!" He shouted at him.

"Then hurry up!" Sanji growled and glared at his former mentor Zeff. Zeff looked the same as he always did, but it was clear that old age caught up to him real quickly, yet he still had so much energy for a man his age. He felt a headache coming on. He sighed before heading back to the kitchen, Pudding right behind him.

"S-Sanji-san? Are you-" Pudding asked as they entered the kitchen where cooks continued to cook people's food.

"I'm fine. He's just an old fart who got nothing better to do than complain." He responded with a smile to Pudding. Pudding blushed and turned her head away, but had a smile on her face. "Ah, right. Are the desserts almost ready for Table 4?"

"Yes! I just finished them and they were sent out." He smiled at her and nodded.

"Amazing as always, Pudding-chan." She couldn't hold it in and foamed at the mouth as her eyes turned to hearts.

'AHHHH! HE PRAISED ME AGAIN! HOW DARE HE!? I MEAN...AHHH...' She felt so happy at his praise.

"Head Chef!" Sanji turned his head to see one of his station chefs approach him. "We received word that a Marine Ship is heading towards us and require supplies. They have already paid in advance."

"Heh...well...get those supplies ready then. We can spend an extra day here to restock." He told him.

"Right! Oh and they left a special message directed towards you." Sanji raised his visible eyebrow.

"Message?"

"Yes, from a Nico Robin." Sanji's eyes widened and turned to hearts.

"A LOVE LETTER FROM ROBIN-CHWAN!" He quickly grabbed the letter to read it's contents. However, before he read a single letter, he felt an aura behind him and gulped as Pudding was pouting and glaring at him with her three eyes. He coughed to clear his throat as he retained his composure. "I mean...that's great to hear that Robin-chan sent me a message. It's been a while..." He then read through the one line.

Heading you way and bringing a very special gift for you, Sanji. Can't wait to see you.

Nico Robin

"Hm? Gift?" Sanji wondered. "A GIFT FROM ROBIN-CHWAN!" He celebrated only to clam down by the aura he felt from Pudding behind him.

"Ah, sorry Pudding-chan. Old habits...hehehe..." He chuckled.

"I know...I know...sorry..." Pudding calmed down and smiled at him. "I'm glad you get to see an old friend." She smiled, but Sanji could still feel an aura emitting from her, even if it was lesser in pressure.

"Y-Yeah..." He looked down at the message. 'Though...what could the gift be...and my reaction...? What is Robin-chwan up to...wait...Marine ship? None of this make sense...' He scratched his head trying to guess what this gift was. "Well, let's reserve a table and prepare a wonderful feast for our VIP guest!"

"YES CHEF!"

END

Chapter Text

The Chateau Blue. A restaurant that has garnered critical acclaim throughout the world. A floating restaurant that was grander than the one that continued its operation in the East Blue, The Baratie. The outside, a marvelous ship that had two duck shaped figure heads, each on different sides, one with blue eyes and the other pink. The large sign, just above the front entrance, introduced anyone visiting the name of the restaurant, the Chateau Blue with big letters and lights that surrounded the entire sign.

The restaurant exterior was three layered from bottom to top that made the restaurant look like a cake. The walls were white with windows that surrounded all around the floating restaurant. The bottom of the restaurant was a deck that had docks extended out for any ship to dock. On one side of the restaurant was a bar and rest area for those who wanted to chat and talk. On the other was a bakery, with tables and seats for anyone wanting to try the Chateau Blue's world famous pastries.

at the top was a small building in the shape of a small castle shaped pastry that housed the Chateau Blue's Head Chef. Inside, he was in his personal kitchen, making a special lunch for his VIP guest that was soon to arrive. The sizzling sound of the skillet over the fire echoed throughout the kitchen as the head chef sprinkled some spices onto the food.

Beside him, a couple of picture frames that showcased both himself and Pudding. While they weren't necessarily together, their bond grew deep enough that one could easily say they were like a loving couple. Deep down, he cared about her immensely. It was a rocky start to their relationship, but after everything they went through he cared about her a lot. However, there something inside him that refused to take that next step with her. Was it his inner desire to be someone who was more than a woman man? No, he wasn't like that. He would treat every girl like they were an angel and fawned over them. He would never on purpose play with a girl's feelings.

There was just something inside him that made him hesitate. He had his suspicions on what this feeling was. He looked over to the picture frame nearby and stared at the photo of his friends, his crew. His eyes wandered over to his former Captain's face. Losing Luffy hurt him in ways that he couldn't describe. He was annoying at times, but his charm, who Luffy was, it always put a smile on his face. He was his Captain, was his number one favorite customer in the world.

He smiled softly at all the memories he shared with him and of course feeding his endless stomach on a daily basis. He missed him. His death hurt. He remembered not being able to cook anything properly for weeks. He would burn food, use wrong spices and had many different accidents that left him with cuts, burns and other injuries. He never thought someone's death would leave him in shambles as Luffy's death did.

It wasn't until Pudding came back to his life that he slowly began to heal and got back to being the cook he was proud of being. The time they spent was wonderful and he grew closer to her than he ever thought he would get. Yet, he would not go beyond a certain point. Deep down, Luffy's death affected him a lot and he refused to get too close to anyone again. He missed his closest friend.

Suddenly, a bell rang through the sound system Franky had installed when he helped build his restaurant. That bell was a signal to let everyone know when VIP guests were approaching. His mood brightened as he was about to see Robin again after months. He missed her along with the rest of the crew. He hadn't heard from most of them in a while, especially from both Robin and Nami, so when he was told Robin was coming, he was overjoyed.

He was curious about this gift she mentioned she was bringing. He wasn't sure what it could be, but it was a gift from Robin so he was excited no matter what it was. He put on the finishing touches on the dish he prepared for her and picked up the plate. He started heading to the door when he stopped just in front of it. He looked down to his left and saw another picture frame. It was a large picture of the Straw Hat Pirates. He specifically eyed his Captain.

'Luffy...I wish you could be here...I'm sure you'd clean me out every time you stopped by...' He chuckled at the thought. He missed cooking food for him. Luffy always appreciated his cooking and he respected the way Luffy would eat anything and always leave his plate empty. As a cook, there was no greater honor. He knew he had to move on. They all did, but it was something he couldn't really get over with and he didn't need to be constantly reminded of it whenever the old man stopped by.

He sighed and scratched the back of his neck with his free hand. He didn't like thinking about these things. He had other things to worry about now. Especially how he would react to seeing his lovely Robin-chan again. He reached toward the door knob to open it when suddenly, his kitchen shook along with a loud crash.

“What the...”

~OP~

Wooooooaaaaahhhhh!!!” Luffy looked in awe. The marine ship was currently sailing through a large stream of water that was surrounded by what formally was the red line. “This is so cool!”

Robin giggled right next to him. She was so happy seeing this sight again. Luffy's thirst for adventure and seeing the sights of the world for the first time was always a treat for her. He had such joy and wonder and it always brought her joy and a strong feeling of adventure.

“Impressive, isn't it?” She asked him and leaned against the same railing he was sitting crossed legged on.

“Yeah!” He smiled.

“How does it feel knowing you were the one who created this?” She asked him curiously.

“Hmmm...I don't know...I wish I could remember what I did, but all I can remember is punching that Imu guy...I didn't really pay attention where or what we were going through, I just really wanted to let that asshole have it...” Luffy told her, crossing his arms. “But it is cool to know that I did this...and it's named after me too...that's awesome!!”

“~Hehehe it is.. This is just one of the many gorges that connect the rest of the world together. We should be arriving soon at an even more amazing place and if Koby-san is right, we should see Sanji's restaurant there too.” Hearing his name, brought a huge grin on Luffy's face.

“Oh man, I can't wait to see Sanji and see his new restaurant! Not to mention eating his tasty food again, Shi shishishi!” The thought of eating food prepared by the former cook of his crew made him more excited than ever. He drooled at all the food he would be devouring. Robin giggled at him, loving this nostalgic feeling of sailing with her Captain.

“I'm sure he'll be excited to see you. I relayed a message that I'll be stopping by with a gift.” Robin smiled playfully.

“Huh? A gift? Oh, should I get a gift for him too? I don't have anything though.” Robin couldn't help the giggle escape from her lips.

“No, it's fine. Let's just say you already have a gift for him.” He tilted his head in confusion, but shrugged it off as he was too excited in seeing Sanji to think too much on it.

“Oh, we are coming up on it.” Robin told her Captain a couple of minutes later as Luffy excitedly leaned over the railing to get a better view. His eyes widened as the the red mountain expanded out to form a large open area. The circumference was fairly large with many streams that led to many different points around the world. The destruction of the red line that Luffy caused brought the entire world together with the center point this gorge.

“Woah...amazing...what is this place Robin?” Luffy asked her with widened eyes full of amazement and wonder.

“This place...it's where you were last seen...fighting against Imu...the epicenter of your battle with him when you destroyed the red line...some call it the All Blue and others call it, The Great Nika Sea.”

It was also where the former home of the Celestial Dragons lived before it was destroyed alongside the red line. Many former Celestial Dragons ran or were killed during the final war. Some disappeared, their fates unknown as their entire livelihood was destroyed by not only Luffy's actions, but everyone else who opposed them.

The incident also caused the sea levels to rise, causing many islands to be flooded by the raise in sea levels. However, the water quickly receded as well as it began to fill the empty hole left behind by the destruction of the mountain. The force behind it was so great that even parts of the mountain on the other side of the world felt its force, cracking and breaking apart.

It was later discovered that the spot Luffy destroyed was also the heart of the mountain and caused a large crack internally that spread across its entire mountain structure. With the water receding, islands once submerged reappeared again, allowing everyone to discover new islands, islands of old and learn about ancient civilizations that once inhabited these islands.

Robin looked over at Luffy as she finished explaining to him the instant aftermath of what he had done. Luffy, who normally would be bored of topics like this, actually listened closely to his archaeologist. He was surprisingly interested in learning what happened. Whether he understood anything she said, she didn't know, but she did feel something different about him. He felt more mature.

“Luffy?” She called his name, wondering what he was thinking.

“Hmm...i don't quite get it, but I did something amazing...” Robin smiled and figured that Luffy still didn't quite understand what she told him. He looked ahead at the open waters with awe. “...hey, Robin...”

“Hm?”

“This place...it's so big...i see nothing but water...it feels endless...it makes me feel...free..there's no longer anything stopping me...I can continue sailing without ever stopping...to sail freely as I want...nothing in my way...this place connects everything, right? I really did it...I really became free...right?” Robin gasped a little. She stared at him as he continued to look on to the endless sea. She was caught by surprise. She never expected him to talk like this. It was new. It was a thought that she wouldn't have expected a younger Luffy to say. Was she wrong? Did he really mature? She smiled warmly at him.

“Yes...you did Luffy...”

He looked over at her with a grin. “I am the free-est man in the world...right?”

Robin giggled as she recalled what he said to Rayleigh in the bar all those years ago. “Yeah...you are...” He grinned and chuckled with excitement.

“Shi shishishi! That's great! I hope that means everyone else is too. I hope everyone else is free.” Luffy wondered looking back at the sea.

“Ee...they are...I know they are...after all...I am one of those people...” She smiled warmly at him and he chuckled.

“Good. Ah, but I guess I can't do anything yet until I see everyone.” He crossed his arms. “Shi shishishi, I hope they join me again. It's better to adventure with everyone than by myself.” He may feel like the free-est man in the world, but without his friends or someone to join him on that journey, it wouldn't feel the same.

She really was amazed by him. Even after so many years, he was still a remarkable person that she would follow to the ends of the world. He was her Captain, a wonderful friend and crew mate. The pride she felt for being a close and personal friend to him was one she had so much pride in. This was the man who changed the world, saved so many people and he returned to them. She truly was so happy to have him back.

“Luffy-san, we'll soon be approaching Chateau Blue.” Koby told him as Robin and Luffy turned to him.

“Really!? Then we'll see Sanji soon!” He got up and ran toward the front of the ship with a wide grin. Koby chuckled at him and then turned to Robin. “Did you let Sanji-san know?” He asked as she giggled.

“Kind of, he just knows I'm bringing a gift.” Koby chuckled and gave her a small nod.

“OOOOOOOOHHHHHH! IS THAT IT!?!!?!?” Both of them heard Luffy yell out from the front of the ship.

“Oh boy...” Koby sighed, but kept a smile plastered on his face.

“~Hehehe...it's so good to hear him be so excited again.” Robin smiled warmly, missing this Luffy so much. Koby only smiled back at her.

“Oi!!! Grunt! What are you-?” Both were alerted by someone's voice and before they could ask what was going on, they heard the loud voice of the Captain of the Straw Hat Pirates.

“Gomu Gomu no...ROCKET!” The sound of rubber stretching and snapping was heard as the laughing voice of Luffy was fading every second. Koby turned his head over to Robin with a dead pan expression.

“Tell me he didn't...”

“~Hehehe...that's the Luffy I know and love...”

Then, a loud crashing sound was heard and they both knew what happened. Luffy crashed into the Chateau Blue.

~OP~

“Are we being attacked!?”

“What in the world happened?”

“Are they pirates!?”

“Everyone calmed down!” Pudding calmly shouted as she took charge. “Whatever it is, we need to be ready.” She told the staff. The chefs, who were battle experienced nodded and took out their knives to use as weapons.

“Put your knives away.” Everyone turned their heads to see the owner of the Chateau Blue approach them. A plate of food in one hand raised up to his shoulder.

“Sanji-san!” Pudding let out a sigh in relief in seeing Sanji arrive.

“Don't use those knives to fight. They should be only used to make delicious food for our customers. We can't have your knives lose their sharpness in some random scuttle. I'll deal with it.” All of his employees felt the tension in their shoulders loosen with his presence. They looked at him in complete awe. He stopped next to Pudding and kept his eyes on the dust cloud and destruction that was formed by whatever dared to attack his restaurant. “Did anyone see what it was?”

“No, it just happened all of a sudden.” She answered, looking at him with eyes of admiration. She felt her face blush at how cool he was at the moment.

“I see...it's been a while...the exercise should be good.”

“Oops...” He heard a voice from within the dust cloud and saw the silhouette of someone.

Sanji didn't wait long before jumping forward and slamming his leg right into the face of the intruder. Luffy felt the kick hit him hard and was sent flying to another wall. Sanji landed and tapped his foot on the floor. The plate of food still in his hands with the cooked vegetables still in tact.

'Hmm...weird...that felt strange...and familiar...' Sanji turned his head and looked at the debris he created from kicking the intruder into another wall.

“The hell, Egg Plant? You wanna destroy your whole restaurant...” Sanji clicked his tongue in annoyance as he looked over at Zeff who was casually sitting in front of one of the tables with his leg and peg leg on the table.

“Shut up old man...” Sanji glared at him. “I will deal with this my way.”

“Your way will destroy this restaurant, you idiot.”

Sanji sighed in annoyance. “Your lucky your old as hell now, if I tried kicking you, you might keel over...” Sanji responded.

“What did you say, Egg plant!? I can still kick your butt!” Zeff growled at him.

“Zeff-san...please...Doctor Chopper said you shouldn't overexert yourself, not after what happened last ti-” Pudding warned the older man as he waved his hand off.

“Yeah, yeah, I know...at least someone here is considerate of my health.” Zeff commented which ticked off Sanji.

“Such a pain...” Sanji knew this was just their usual banter, but he would be lying if he said it didn't annoy him to some degree. Regardless, he turned his attention back to where he kicked the idiot that crashed into his restaurant.

The sound of debris being moved caused everyone to stand alert. A body rose from it and had its back toward everyone. Sanji eyed the individual and noticed the long black hair that was tied in a ponytail, along with the new Marine uniform he wore.

“A marine?” Pudding curiously asked, finding it weird that it was a marine who crashed into the restaurant.

“The hell...Oi, you damn Marine, the hell is the matter with you? You crash into my restaurant out of nowhere? Who the hell do you think you are? I'm gonna make you work as a busboy washing dishes until you pay off all the damage you made.” The Marine was dusting himself off when he stiffened at the sound of Sanji's voice. He slowly stood up. His back still facing the Head Chef.

“Sanji-san...you did some of that...” Pudding commented sheepishly.

“That hurt...” The Marine muttered. Sanji didn't quite hear what was said, but he did hear the Marine say something under his breath. This only added to his frustration today and before anyone could blink, Sanji sped across the restaurant, jumped and slammed his foot against the back of the Marine's head, slamming him to the ground. He then kicked off and landed on his feet a few feet away.

“Damn it...” He muttered annoyingly, he felt a headache come along and needed a cigarette. He reached into his pocket to grab his box when he heard the sound of someone eating. Sanji turned his head and saw the Marine sitting cross legged, his back turned again to him and was snacking on something. When Sanji saw what he was eating, his eyes widened and turned his head to his dish. He couldn't believe he didn't notice that part of the dish was gone.

“Oh man...” The Marine sighed as he ate the last piece he had. “I missed how good your food was...” He told Sanji. The blond haired chef felt his body freeze slightly at his voice. There was a familiarity to it. One that he swore he heard before. The Marine stood up and dusted himself off.

“You...who the hell are you? How dare you take some of the food I was preparing for Robin-chwan!” He angrily told him.

“Ehhhh...Robin, huh...” The man then began to turn. “...Shi shishishi! How about for me, Sanji? Did you make some for me!?”

Sanji's eye slowly widened. Time froze as he stared at the man wearing the Marine clothes standing in front of him. His hand shook and the plate he masterfully held onto during the entire scuffle soon fell. It only took it a second to crash to the floor and splatter food all over the place, but for Sanji, it felt like an eternity,

He felt his lips quiver, he lost his voice. His eyes shook as tears began welling up in his eyes. He was dreaming.. He had to be. This was all a dream. There was no possible way this was reality. The person standing before him shouldn't be there. He shouldn't be alive. This had to be a dream...right?

He looked at the man standing before him and a brief image of his former Captain appeared in his vision. No, it wasn't a dream. He was not dreaming.

SANJI!!!! FOOOD!

I REFUSE YOUR REFUSAL!!

PLEASE SANJI, LET ME HAVE A SNACK!!

SHISHISHI, SANJI IS A GREAT GUY, RIGHT?

I WON'T EAT ANYTHING OTHER THAN WHAT YOU COOK!!

WITHOUT YOU...I CAN'T BECOME THE KING OF THE PIRATES!!

LET'S GO, SANJI!! LET'S FIND YOUR ALL BLUE!!

“A-Ah...ah...L...Lu...Luffy...” Sanji couldn't back the tears from flowing. Pudding gasped and raised her hands to cover her mouth as her own tears began to flow. Zeff couldn't believe it himself, he had to stand up from his chair and his body shook in shock.

Luffy then ran towards his old friend and gave him a big hug similar to the one he gave Koby. “I'M BACK, SANJI!!!!”

“UWAAAHHHHHHHH!!! L-LUUUUUUUUUFFFFFFYYYYYYYYY!!!!” Sanji cried out in pure happiness. His long lost Captain, who he thought died seven years ago was alive. He was hugging him. This wasn't a dream. Sanji could feel Luffy's hug, this was no dream. His Captain was alive. Luffy was alive!

END

Chapter Text

The large Marine ship arrived and docked in one of the many ports that extended out from the deck of the Chateau Blue. Once the anchor went down and the draw bridge was set up, Robin, Koby and Hibari descended down the bridge.

“You don't think he's causing trouble, do you?” Hibari asked either of them.

“~Hehehe, I'm sure everything is fine. I can pretty much guess what is happening right now.” She smiled at the younger girl. “Shall we go?”

“Yes.” Koby nodded and the three walked to the front door. They opened it and were immediately welcomed to many waiters running back and forth between the kitchen and a certain table, delivering food and empty dishes back and forth. Robin giggled at the sight as her guess was right.

“See.” She smiled as she looked at the customer they were feeding. Luffy was devouring each and every dish that made its way towards him. He swallowed food whole, poured a lot of liquid into his mouth and grabbed all the food he could with his rubber powers.

Koby could only chuckle at the sight. He knew Luffy could eat a lot, but it still always amazed him just exactly how much he could eat. Hibari was just completely stunned at all the food that not only surrounded him, but the empty dishes that were piling up in the corner of his table. The staff were moving as fast as they could to get them back in the kitchen to get even more food.

“H-How can someone eat so much?” Hibari questioned.

“~Hehehehe, my guess is his stomach is also made of rubber so it can expand a lot.” She deduced after all the times she saw him eat as much food as possible.

“Does he even have a limit?” She asked curiously.

“He does, but it takes a while, hehehehe~” She giggled.

“Oh, Robin! Koby! Hibby! Over here! This food is delicious!!!” Luffy noticed the trio and called out to them.

“WHO ARE YOU CALLING HIBBY!?” Hibari shouted, embarrassed at the name he gave her.

“Shi shishishi! More food!” He called out as if on cue, more food came out from the kitchen.

“H-How are they making so much food...” Hibari wondered.

“Well, there's only one man who can do it. After all, he's the only one who can satisfy the black hole of a stomach Luffy has. He must be extremely happy with my gift.” Robin giggled.

“Ah, Robin-san!” The trio turned their head to see Pudding approach them as she wiped some sweat from her forehead. “Good to see you again.”

“Like wise, Pudding-chan.” The older woman smiled at her. Pudding smiled back before turning to the other two and lowered her head.

“Welcome to the Chateau Blue. We received your message and have prepared the supplies you required.” Koby smiled and nodded.

“Thank you.” He then noticed the destruction caused, by he assumed Luffy, and lowered his own head. “Ah, I want to apologize for what Luffy-san did. I wasn't expecting him to send himself flying to your restaurant.” Pudding waved her hands.

“No, no need to apologize. After all...” She looked over to Luffy continuously devouring all the food he was receiving. “...you helped bring Luffy-san here, correct?”

“Ah, yes.” Pudding's smile widened and brightened.

“Then you are more than welcome to order anything you wish. Think of it as my gratitude.” Koby and Hibari tilted their heads slightly.

“Huh?”

“It's thanks to you and Robin-san that Sanji-san is feeling incredibly happy. Seeing his old Captain alive brought the old Sanji-san out that I love.” Hearing the word love made Hibari blush red.

“L-L-L-Love!?” Pudding giggled.

“Yes!” She beamed brightly.

“~Hehehehe, how cute. You really have grown since the last time I saw you, Pudding-chan. You aren't embarrassed as much.” Pudding giggled.

“I guess so. Seeing Sanji-san so happy, I guess I'm too happy myself to be embarrassed.” Pudding replied as Robin nodded her head in understanding. “Then let's get you seated by Luffy-san. Like I said, you can order anything you want. I'll let our staff know to start boarding the supplies onto your ship.”

“Thank you very much.” Koby thanked her and the trio were led by Pudding to sit near the table Luffy was on.

“Robwin! Swanji's food is so gooooood!! I missed his fooood so much!” Luffy exclaimed happily while stuffing his mouth with constant food.

“~Hehehe! I'm glad you are enjoying it! How was your reunion with Sanji?” She asked excitedly.

“Oh!” He swallowed his food before responding. “It was great, Shi shishishi! He kicked him a few times but it felt like the good old days when I tried stealing food. He thought I was a marine...though I guess with what I'm wearing that makes sense., but then I hugged him when he realized it was me. Shi shishishi!” He grinned widely. Robin laughed as she wished she could witnessed it herself.

“I'm glad!” She smiled happily. “I'm guessing he's the one who is preparing all the food?”

“Yep!” Luffy grinned and returned to eating.

“Not only that, but Zeff-san is also helping out. Seeing Luffy-san got him excited to cook so both of them are preparing the food.” Pudding added.

“Oh, right, the Ossan too!” Luffy laughed remembering seeing Sanji's mentor too.

“I see.” Robin smiled as she was given some food.

“Let me know if you want anything else. I'll go tell Sanji-san that you are also here now.” Pudding informed them.

“Thank you.”

Pudding excused herself and headed to the kitchen. Inside, she watched in awe and was mesmerized at Sanji cooking at such a high speed and enthusiasm she hadn't seen in such a long time. She felt her cheeks get warm and a blush show up on her face. It was a sight she longed for. It was him again and she never felt so happy for him. Her heart raced seeing him lively again. She snapped herself out of her gaze and walked closer to him.

“Oi, Eggplant, are you finished with the-”

“Shut up! Here!” Sanji handed Zeff a sauce he finished preparing and then went back to slicing another cut of meat.

“Sanji-san?” Sanji finished cutting before looking over to Pudding.

“Ah, Pudding-chan, sorry for making you do all of this work.” She shook her head.

“Don't be, Sanji-san! I haven't seen you so happy in such a long time. I'm so relieved.” Sanji gasped softly at her words and then smiled.

“i see...I made you worry a little, sorry. I guess Luffy's death hit me harder than I thought...but now he's...I still don't know why or how but it gave me the energy that I used to have and I can't stop being happy about it.” He confessed as Pudding nodded in understanding.

“I know and I'm really happy for you. Ah, Robin-san arrived as well.” She mentioned.

“Really? I see, now I see what she meant by gift.” he smiled and chuckled at the letter. “I'll be out there shortly. Seems we have a lot to catch up on.” Sanji gave her a warm smile and she nodded her head. Her face blushing with the warmth of seeing her beloved so happy.

“Okay!”

~OP~

Luffy belched and rubbed his enlarged stomach as he finished off the last dish. “So stuffed....” He groaned. “Sanji's food is the best!”

“I-I can't believe he ate all that food...” Hibari felt her eyebrow twitched as she stared at Luffy.

“~Hehehe, so nostalgic to see him like this.” Robin giggled with pure happiness. Being around her Captain has made her feel so much joy that she hadn't felt since his supposed death seven years ago. It truly was great to have him back in her life. She was sure this new adventure was going to bring so many feel good moments as she watches him come back to this brand new world he help created. As well as meeting all of his old friends and especially their fellow crew mates.

“Sanji-san's food truly is amazing.” Koby commented, wiping his mouth with a napkin.

“It really is.” Hibari nodded in agreement as she never tasted such delicious food before.

“Thank you for the lovely compliment, Hibari-chan.” The group turned to see Sanji approach them with Pudding right next to him, both smiling sincerely at everyone.

“Sanji!!!” Luffy grinned widely.

“Still have that appetite, huh, Captain.” He smirked at him.

“Shi shishishi! Your food really is the best.” Sanji's smiled softened.

“I'm glad your still doing well, Sanji.” Robin smiled at him.

“Thank you, Robin-chwan!” He exclaimed excitedly with heart eyes. However, he soon corrected himself and cleared his throat, knowing he shouldn't act like so especially with Pudding around.

Luffy stared at him with slightly widened eyes. “Sanji...”

“Hmm?” The cook looked over at his Captain.

“Are you sick?” Luffy suddenly asked as Robin giggled.

“Huh? Why would you say that?” Sanji questioned him, raising his curly eyebrow. Luffy stared at him before simply replying.

“Nothing. Anyway, this is your restaurant, right Sanji!?” He asked enthusiastically, changing the subject. Sanji was still curious about his previous question, but answered his new one with a big grin.

“Yep. My own restaurant! Had it built around 5 years ago with help from Franky.” He excitedly told him.

“Shi shishishi! That's awesome! How is Franky?” He asked about his former shipwright.

“Haven't heard from him in a while, but last I heard from him, he's still doing well with his new construction company.” Sanji explained.

“Eh, that's what I heard as well. Franky Family Construction. They not only build ships, but other things as well. Homes, stores and even whole towns.” Robin added.

“Really? That's awesome! I'm glad you are all doing well!! Oh right! Sanji, I'm glad you were able to find the All Blue, Shi shishishi!” Luffy was incredibly ecstatic at the success of his crew. Even after his supposed death, he was glad his crew were busy with new ventures that they enjoy and are incredibly passionate about.

Sanji smiled warmly at him. “Aa....thanks to you, Luffy.”

“Shi shishishi! I'm glad I was able to help.” Sanji gave him a soft nod.

“Though, enough about me for now. Luffy, what happened? How are you alive? I mean, I'm truly happy, but we searched for you for so long after what happened.” Sanji asked curiously.

“I don't know.”

“What do you mean you don't know?” Sanji felt bewildered by his quick response.

“I really don't know.” He responded again.

“He doesn't seem to remember, Sanji.” Robin backed Luffy. “From what he told me, he doesn't remember what happened after his last attack.”

“Right. I just remember wanting to beat the crap out of that Imu guy and we both crashed into the mountain and that's the last thing I remember.” Sanji lit a cigarette and blew some smoke. He continued to listen to Luffy's story about how he was found and the events that occurred afterwards.

“Memory loss, saved by a doctor, found by Koby, saved Robin and now your here. That's all?” Sanji reviewed all the information he was told by Luffy, Robin and Koby. He was now sitting across from them with Pudding by his side. Luffy's body returned to normal and began chewing on some leftover meat on a bone.

“That's about it, yes.” Robin nodded.

“Hmm...so you only met Robin and I so far?” Sanji asked.

“Yep! Can't wait to see everyone else!” Luffy grinned excitedly at the several reunions he will have.

“I see...so you haven't met Zoro yet?” He asked.

“Nope, we were actually going to Sabaody. Tashigi said Zoro was seen around there.” Robin told him.

“Yeah! I can't wait to see Zoro, Shi shishishi!” Luffy chuckled.

“I see...hehehehe...” Everyone looked at him questionably at his weird chuckle.

“Sanji?” Luffy called his name.

“....that means Zoro is gonna see you after me... take that baka marimo...” He smirked at his victory causing Luffy to laugh out loud.

“....same old Sanji!” Luffy laughed as Robin joined him with giggles.

“Huh? I don't get it.” Hibari muttered feeling left out.

“Sanji-san and Zoro-san have a friendly competition...” Pudding answered the young marine.

“It's not a friendly competition...it's a war...” Sanji muttered clenching his fist.

“That sounds so childish...” Hibari sweat dropped.

“In any case, I'm glad you're back Luffy. You are always welcome back to my restaurant whenever you want.” Sanji told him.

“Really!? Alright!” Luffy exclaimed with his arms raised.

“Aa. You too, of course, Robin-chan.” Robin giggled and nodded, accepting his offer as well. “Tell that to the others when you see them too...except Marimo, he has to pay.” Luffy twitched at his words and lowered his arms. He stared at Sanji with a serious expression. “Hm? What's wrong?”

“Sanji....you don't want to come with?” Robin frowned as she looked between Luffy and Sanji. Sanji didn't react to his question and just calmly stared back at Luffy. Pudding frowned and did the same as Robin. Both Koby and Hibari could feel the mood suddenly change and kept silent as they didn't have a say in this matter.

Sanji sighed. “Luffy...I wish I could...I really want to...seeing you alive made me think about the old days and want to relive those days as well. I want to see the others too, see you reunite with them...but...” He looked over at Pudding and then up to the ceiling of his restaurant. “...I can't leave...I own this restaurant so I have to be here, not just for myself, but for everyone who works here, the customers who want to eat here or anyone who stumbles here with no food in their belly. I have an obligation to feed them. As much as I want to...it would be irresponsible for me to leave them.”

Luffy listened. Just like with Robin, he knew his crew might not be able to go with him. He had no right to tell them to leave their new lives to go on new adventures like the old days. He didn't like it, but he understood why it was hard for them to just leave. “I see...” He responded, but he pouted and contorted his face to show how much he was struggling to accept it.

Sanji chuckled at him sadly. “You know...I half expected you to reject my refusal again...”

“Would it work?”

“No.”

“I see...then there's no point...I get it...” Luffy told him. “I can't make you leave and wouldn't want to force you.”

“Ehhhh...you almost sound mature...” Sanji smiled at him. Deep down, Sanji did want to travel with him again. He wanted to spend time and make up for the last seven years he was gone from their lives. However, he had responsibilities and he couldn't just drop everything. He really did wish he could.

“I am mature...” He pouted.

Pudding stared at Sanji with a frown and fidgeted with her fingers. She could tell how much he was hurting inside. She knew he wanted to go out and adventure with his former Captain. Her lips twitched, trying to find the right words to say to him.

She heard Luffy ask Robin to try and see if she could convince him, but she giggled. “Sorry, Luffy. However, I don't think that can work with Sanji anymore...well...not as much as before...after all..” She turned to Pudding to which Luffy followed her gaze.

“Hm?” Luffy asked curiously.

“Oh right, I guess I forgot to mention this...” Sanji turned to her with a smile before looking back at Luffy. “...Pudding and I have been together for the last 5 years.” Pudding blushed at this and placed her hands on her cheeks. Hibari also blushed as she looked between the two and placed her own hands on her cheeks.

“Huh?” Luffy asked, tilting his head to the side. “Together? Oh right, I was wondering why Pudding was here. What do you mean you two are together?”

Sanji sighed, realizing quickly who he was talking to. “Yeah. Like being married without the marriage part.” Luffy blinked a few times before speaking his thoughts.

“Oh, then that means you guys are mates now? Does that mean you guys have been mating?” Everyone let out different responses to his statement. Sanji choked on his cigarette, Pudding blushed so profusely that she immediately fainted. Hibari also blushed madly, but didn't faint. She did however place her hands on her cheeks at the embarrassment of the situation. While it didn't involve her, the idea of someone saying so bluntly made her feel embarrassment especially with Koby sitting right next to her. He had a slight blush on his cheeks and felt flustered, but tried his best to remain calm, but it was easy to tell even if he felt shaken a bit at what Luffy said. Robin was surprised for a moment before letting out a heartfelt laugh at the blunt response from Luffy and everyone's reactions. Luffy stared blankly and looked at everyone, confused by their sudden reaction.

“D-DAMN IT, LUFFY!” Sanji coughed a bit as he yelled at him.

“Huh? What? Did I say something wrong?” Luffy turned and asked Robin. Her chuckles calmed down to give him a smile.

“You're not necessarily wrong, but the words you used were a bit shocking, I would say, hehehe~” Luffy tilted his head.

“Eh? Really?” He then turned back to Sanji. “Ooops.”

Sanji let out a long sigh. “Don't give me that ooops...” He knelt down in front of Pudding to lift her up so she laid on his thigh that he had lifted. “Well, like Robin-chan said, you aren't wrong, but you could use some more tact. Also, where did you even learn about that word?”

“Ace told me a long time ago. He tried explaining it, but gave up when I couldn't get it. I didn't really know until later what he meant. It's how babies are made, right?” Sanji almost coughed again at his blunt words.

“Please stop it already!!” Hibari screamed feeling incredibly embarrassed by this entire conversation.

“Well, it's very interesting to hear that Luffy knows somewhat about it.” Robin giggled, amused by the conversation.

“Let's just please move on...” Sanji started feeling embarrassed by the conversation himself and definitely didn't want to have this type of conversation with others present. “Pudding-chan...?” He lightly tapped her on the cheek to rouse her from unconsciousness. She began opening her eyes and looked up at Sanji, who Was smiling down at her in relief.

“Sanji....san...” She muttered his name. “W-What happened?” She asked, forgetting what made her faint.

“D-Don't worry about it...you just passed out for a bit, probably from overwork.” He told her and helped her stand up and then let her sit down. Everyone marveled at the gentleman Sanji was through the whole situation, which included Luffy himself.

He thought there was something weird about Sanji and he realized at that moment what it was. He wasn't being that weird version of him when he was with woman. He acted more cool. He never found that version of him weird, just funny and would laugh at times he acted that way. He liked Sanji for who he was and that was part of his character. Now, it felt a little weird that he wasn't acting that way and he changed. He looked over at Pudding and stared at her thinking, was it because of her? Was it because of them being together? He didn't understand clearly what it was, but he wasn't oblivious to the change.

Robin peeked over at Luffy to gauge his expression. He had a blank expression on his face, but she could tell he was probably deep in some kind of thought. He was always so interesting and unpredictable. You would never really know what he was thinking or what he would do next. It felt nostalgic. She always observed him. He was by far the most fascinating person she had ever met and part of it was because she could never really figure him out. Not that that was a bad thing, it peaked her interest time and time again and made life more enjoyable watching him become who he is now.

“Oh yeah, by the way Luffy...what's with the long hair?” Sanji asked when he finished lighting his cigarette.

“I don't know. When I was found I had long hair. Same goes for this beard...” He brushed his hand through his facial hair. “It feels weird, but I don't hate it. It's kind of cool actually, Shi shishishishi!” Sanji softly smiled.

“I see...well, you look like shit...” He chuckled teasingly and Luffy could only laugh.

“Would you like me to cut it?” Pudding offered.

“Actually, I think it would be best for Luffy to keep his hair like this for a while.” Robin answered. “Makes it more interesting when we see the others.” She giggled at the imagination of the reactions of the other crew members.

“I could only imagine the look on Chopper's face...” Sanji chuckled reminiscing about the cute reindeer former member of the crew.

“Shi shishishi! I can't wait to see Chopper!” Luffy chuckled, also missing his former doctor. “Oh, right! Sanji, do you know who has my hat?”

“Your hat?” Sanji repeated as he looked up to think about it. “I'm not too sure who has it now...it's been a while since I last saw it anyway.”

“Hmm...I see. Well, as long as it's with one of you guys, I know it's safe.” Luffy happily grinned.

“Yeah, I'm sure you'll find it at some point. Let me know when you are swinging by again. I'll prepare an entire feast for the whole crew before then.” Luffy sad at that. Not that he wasn't going to be happy about a giant party with everyone again, but he wished Sanji would travel with him and the others again.

“S-S-Sanji-san!” Pudding suddenly raised her voice and everyone turned their attention to her. “Y-Y-You should go...no, I want you to go with Luffy-san!” Sanji's visible eye widened.

“Huh? Pudding-chan...” Sanji was a bit surprised by her. She clenched her fists and looked at him with fierce commitment to her words. “....Pudding-chan...I want to...but I can't leave...I need to be here...I'm the Head Chef...I have an entire restaurant to be responsible for and so many customers to-”

“What kind of sorry excuses are you making Eggplant!?” Sanji felt a tick form at the voice. Luffy looked up and grinned, seeing the old Chef that Sanji considered a father figure.

“Yooo! Chef-Ossan! Good to see ya!” Luffy told him as Zeff gave the young Pirate King a smirk.

“Good to see you too chore boy...ah maybe I should call you Pirate King now?” Luffy grinned and chuckled. “I see this idiot here is as difficult as always.” He motioned a finger towards Sanji. “He really still isn't being honest with himself and has been nothing but a pain in everyone's ass.”

“Would you shut it, Old man!?” Sanji growled.

“Don't give me that! You haven't changed one bit! You still so stubborn and indecisive about things. What? After all you've been through, your journey, the All Blue, this restaurant and you are still the same Eggplant you've always been.” Zeff scolded the younger Chef as he lowered his head to hide the anger showcasing in his eyes.

“Shut up...you don't get it...” He muttered.

“Of course I don't. You have been moping this whole time for the last seven years, kept this poor girl waiting for you and-”

“SHUT UP!” Sanji yelled before slamming his foot on the table, destroying it. Hibari and Koby were stunned by the sudden action, while Luffy and Robin stayed put, unfazed by the outburst. “I had enough of your constant nagging. What do you even know what I've been through and what I've been feeling! Stop talking like you know anything!”

“Sanji-san...” Pudding frowned and felt some tears form in her eyes at the anger Sanji was displaying. She knew Sanji enough that he was frustrated about everything and was not really angry at Zeff. She just hated seeing him like this.

“You're right...I don't know...” Zeff calmly spoke as he crossed his arms. “...but there is one thing I do know...”

“And what's that?” Sanji growled.

“....your Captain is alive, isn't he?” Sanji made a noise.

“...I...I...”

“He's here...breathing...alive. This isn't a dream...he is alive and you have a chance to travel with him again. You have been riddled with guilt the entire time because you couldn't find him. You missed him, your friends and when you finally have a chance to travel with them again, you run away because you're afraid of losing him again.” Sanji hated how easy Zeff was able to understand him. It was like this even back then, when he first joined the crew. “This restaurant will be here...it won't go away...but having your Captain come back from the dead, to be able to travel again with your friends like you used to...those opportunities are much more rare...stop hiding behind this place, stop hiding your feelings again...be yourself again...Sanji.”

Sanji's eyes widened at Zeff calling him by his name. It was a rare occurrence, one he hadn't heard from a long time. He looked up and stared at Luffy. Luffy simply smiled at him, with Robin smiling right next to him as well. He was right, the restaurant would be here, but being able to travel with his friends again...it might never come again. He finally looked over at Pudding.

“Sanji-san...” She whispered his name and gave him a nod of encouragement.

Sanji took a deep sigh. “Damn it...I can never have my way, can I?” Sanji took a drag of his cigarette. “This isn't me admitting your right, Old man. However...” He looked back at Luffy and made eye contact with him. “Luffy...I'm sorry we couldn't find you...I'm sorry we couldn't find you...this whole time I...I felt guilty about not being able to find you...but I'm so glad you're back...” Sanji spoke his heart out as he stared at his Captain and friend. “...That's why...If I can...can I go on more adventures with you?”

“Shi shishishi! Of course, Sanji!” Luffy exclaimed happily. Robin happily giggled and Pudding cried tears of joy at Sanji. She looked at his face and saw the old Sanji. The one she fell in love with. The Sanji that had an thirst for adventure. It was so good to see him back.

“Damn it...” Sanji muttered, using a hand to wipe some tears forming in his eyes. He knew everything Zeff said was right on the money. He never admitted it, but deep down he felt guilty for not being strong enough to help Luffy when he needed it. Sure, people told him there was nothing he should have felt guilty for. After all, what happened was what Luffy wanted. However, the guilt still was there. He was a wing of the Pirate King. Him dying was like he failed. He took responsibility for it and kept that burden within him, never telling anyone or talking to anyone about what he was feeling. He hated keeping something like bottled up.

As time went by, the guilt lessened a bit, but it was always there. Reminding him constantly like a scar that he should have been stronger, faster, searched more to help his Captain. It was such a terrible feeling. It affected his passion in cooking. It affected his relationship with Pudding. It made him feel like complete shit and on days when it hit harder, he felt completely weak.

However, Luffy was back. The happiness he felt to see the man who changed his life and returning relieved so much of that guilt he had. Yet, he still held back. That guilt he felt was still slightly there. Yes, he was relieved Luffy was alive, but he still couldn't forgive himself nor did he think Luffy would ever forgive him. Yet, he knew Luffy would have never blamed him. He knew it, but he needed to forgive himself. Turned out, all he needed was a little push from the old man to make him realize the truth.

“”I'm glad you finally came to your senses.” Zeff spoke with a smirk. “Oh, and don't worry about your restaurant...I'll take over while your gone.”

“What?” Sanji was shocked by that. He stood up to face him. “Why would you...?”

“Knowing you, you'd probably be worried about this place too much unless you had someone who knows what it's like to run a sea restaurant, no?” Sanji really did hate how well the old man knew him.

“But your health...” Zeff scoffed.

“What? Now you care about that? Don't worry about it, your girlfriend here will make sure I don't die.” He pointed toward Pudding who blushed at him calling her Sanji's girlfriend.

“H-He's right, Sanji-san! Don't worry, I'll make sure he doesn't stress himself too much and make sure the restaurant is doing well. You go and journey with your friends. All I want is you to be happy, Sanji-san!” Sanji felt like he didn't deserve her. He approached her and gave her a strong and warm hug that made her fluster.

Hibari blushed and looked away at the affectionate hug, but when she turned she accidentally made eye contact with Koby. He looked back at her and both looked away from each other bashfully.

Robin giggled at the affection and innocence of the four and couldn't help feel a little jealous about it. She looked over at Luffy and saw the smile on his face. She giggled.

“Must be nice.” She said.

“Hm? What?” Luffy asked her.

“Having someone like that.” She looked over at Sanji. Luffy followed her gaze and stared at Sanji and Pudding.

“A mate?” He asked.

Robin giggled. “Not exactly the right term, but for you I guess close enough.”

“Do you have one?” He asked her.

“No. Though, who knows if I will.” She replied with a bit of sadness.

“Hmmm...well I don't quite get it, but I hope you do find someone, Robin.” Luffy told her with a smile.

“Thank you, Captain.” There was a brief silence before she asked him the big questions he wanted to.

“What about you, Luffy?”

“Me what?”

“Having someone like that.”

“No, I don't want to get married.”

“Hehehe~ I know, but you don't need to get married to have that special someone.” Robin told him. “You can still have someone like that without getting married.”

“Really?” Luffy asked and she nodded. “Hmmm...then maybe...but I don't know...I do want to go on more adventures...and I can't wait to see everyone again...so that's what I want to do first.” She expected that answer.

“Then after?”

“Sure...but I wouldn't know how to start.” Luffy crossed his arms and tilted his head.

“I can understand that, hehehehe~” Robin giggled. “Though, I wouldn't worry too much about that, Luffy.”

“Hmm? Why?”

“Because in the end, something like that can just happen. When it does, don't fight it and just embrace it.” She offered her advice.

“Hmmm...” He hummed and went back to observing the couple who know broke the hug and were staring at each other.

“If you're done being all lovey dovey...” Zeff interrupted the pair as they both blushed out of embarrassment. “...shouldn't you start packing, Eggplant?”

Sanji growled at him before sighing. “Yeah...yeah...” He turned to Luffy. “When we setting sail, Captain?” Luffy grinned.

“Right away! Let's go on a new adventure, Sanji!!” Luffy grinned widely.

“Heh...aye, aye, Captain.”

END

Chapter Text

Luffy chuckled in excitement. He was giddy and couldn't stop rocking back and forth while sitting on the railing with his legs crossed. He was patiently waiting for Sanji to come out of his restaurant to join him and Robin on a brand new adventure. He couldn't wait to set sail towards Sabaody and find Zoro. However, for now, he was very excited to be sailing with Sanji again.

Robin could only smile at Luffy, happy another former member of their crew was going to join them. She to waited by the railing, anticipating the cook to come out of the door at any moment.

After a few more minutes, the person they were waiting for came out from within the restaurant. He wore his ordinary suit that both were used to and was followed right behind by Pudding. Sanji took a deep breath and observed the large marine ship that he will be boarding and smiled to himself.

'It's been so long...' He thought and placed his bag full of his stuff and clothing to turn and see Pudding face to face. “Pudding-chan...I...” She tilted her head slightly, wondering what he was trying to say.

“Sanji-san?”

“Sorry...I know I have been taking so long and you've been patient with me...” Pudding wasn't sure where he was going with this. She stayed silent and waited for him to finish. “...I'm heading off for a bit, so take care of the restaurant and the old man...and when I get back...I'll finally give you my answer.” He gave her the warmest smile she ever seen on his lips. Her eyes widened and face became red at what he was insinuating with his words.

“I...I...” Pudding didn't know what to say but steam was shooting out of her ears at the possible idea she had in her head. She tried to say something, but no words came out, so Sanji did something that shook her core. He leaned forward and kissed her. Pudding's entire body became hot and red at the kiss. It wasn't their first kiss as they've been together for a long time, but this one was by far so different. There was something behind it that Pudding only felt one other time and that was their first ever kiss seven years ago.

It was a strong kiss, one with so much feelings being driven by Sanji into it. It made her knees feel weak and was only able to stand up because of the hold Sanji had on her shoulders.

“Oh my, hehehehe~” Robin couldn't help but giggle at how far Sanji has come and was happy he found someone he could fully express himself with. Did she miss his old self? At times she did, but she had to admit that that it did become a little too much. However, now she did not mind the person he is now. She looked over to Luffy and tried to gauge his expression and what he was thinking.

He was smiling. He was looking at the two and simply smiling. She didn't know exactly what to think, but seeing Luffy smile made her own widen as well. She then looked past Luffy and saw Hibari staring at the scene herself with her hands on her cheeks and face flush at the sight of affection. She couldn't help but giggle at her and how pure she was.

“Shi shishi!” Luffy suddenly chuckled.

“Hmm? What is it, Luffy?” Robin curiously asked.

“I'm glad Sanji is happy! After all that stuff that happened with Pudding, I'm glad they're happy together, Shi shishishi!” Luffy explained with a wide grin. Robin smiled. While she wasn't there during that part of their adventure, she heard the tale of what happened from Nami...including the fight Luffy and Sanji had. She promised to keep it a secret from the others, but was glad everything worked out in the end.

“K-K-K-Kiss....he's kissing her...urghhh...” Both turned to Hibari who was muttering to herself.

“Hm? You want a kiss too?” Luffy suddenly asked, surprising both woman, but with different reactions.

“W-W-W-W-WHAT ARE YOU SAYING, YOU IDIOT!?” Hibari screamed at him as her entire body was completely red.

“What? You were saying something about kissing...” Luffy pouted, not understanding her outburst.

“THAT DOESN'T MEAN I WANT ONE...I mean...with K-Koby-san m-maybe...I MEAN NO, WHAT ARE YOU MAKING ME SAY!?” She shouted and quickly ran off from embarrassment.

“What the hell is her deal?” Luffy pouted, looking at her retreating back.

“Well, it's a little unusual to ask a question like that, Luffy.” Robin clarified. She knew Luffy enough to know that he probably didn't mean too much behind the question. However, her curiosity was raised. She wasn't too surprised that Luffy knew what a kiss was. After all, he must have seen people kissing before. It still caught her off guard just a little bit.

“Hm...I see...I don't get why, but if you say so.” Luffy decided to just let it be. Robin did have a question to ask him, but she didn't know if it was too personal or not. She decided to ask anyway.

“Luffy...have you ever kissed anyone?” Luffy calmly turned to her and hummed.

“Nope, don't think so. Never really thought about it.” Luffy admitted. “Ah, but I did hear from Chopper that Sanji's sister did save my life once by putter her lips on mine...does that count?”

Robin remembered this from when Nami told her about the events at Whole Cake Island. She remembered Nami was blushing when she told the story, but didn't think too much about it. Her lips parted, ready to give him an answer to his question, but someone else beat her to it.

“Oi...Luffy...what did you say?” Both turned to see Sanji just below them, his eyes covered by his bangs. After breaking the kiss between himself and Pudding and promising her that he'll return as soon a she could, he made his way towards the ship when he heard Luffy's answer to Robin's question. He was halfway up the ramp when he froze in his place. Pudding was at the end of the ramp, looking shocked, overhearing his response as well.

“Oh, Sanji! You ready to go!?” Luffy grinned excitedly, unaware of the seething aura he was giving off.

“Oh my...” Robin chuckled a bit as she placed a hand on her cheek.

“DON'T GIVE ME THAT! WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU KISSED MY SISTER!?” Luffy's eyes widened at the anger Sanji was displaying.

“W-Wait a minute Sanji! I didn't kiss her! I actually don't even know you count it as that!” Luffy waved his hands to try and settle him down, but his response made the blonde cook angrier.

“WHAT!? YOU KISSED MY SISTER AND YOU'RE SAYING IT DIDN'T EVEN MATTER AT ALL!?” Sanji was blazing hot now as fire erupted from his body.

“What!? No, I didn't say that at all!” Luffy shouted back, standing up onto his feet. “Besides she was the one who kissed me and sucked...”

Luffy didn't get to finish as the moment Sanji heard the word 'sucked' and erupted. “YOU'RE DEAD!!!!!!”

“W-Wait, Sanji...ahhhhh....” Luffy ran away as Sanji chased after him and both began running around the ship, causing destruction everywhere.

Robin only chuckled at the two before turning to look down at Pudding. She gave her a smile. “Don't worry...I'll make sure Sanji behaves.”

Pudding looked up at the older woman and understood what she meant. “I'll be counting on you.” Both woman smiled at each other as they came to an understanding that Robin would not let Sanji act his old ways with any girls he meets while they travel.

“Do the same for me.” Zeff arrived, his peg leg hitting against the wooden dock.

“Of course.”

“YOU'RE GONNA KILL ME SANJI!” Luffy's voice rang out as more destruction was heard happening in the ship.

“YOU DAMN RIGHT I AM!!”

~OP~

“CPR? Why didn't you just say so?” Sanji asked Luffy as the three Strawhats were in Koby's office all sitting nearby his desk. Sanji lit a cigarette as he puffed out some smoke as he looked over at the very bruised Luffy.

“I'm sworry...” Luffy replied through his bruises.

“Hehehehe~ Well, I'm glad the confusion was cleared up before Luffy ended up dead.” Robin chuckled at her dark humor.

“Yeah...sorry about that, Captain.” Luffy groaned from the pain, but soon enough, the bruises disappeared, returning him to normal. “So, we heading straight to Sabaody now?” Sanji asked Robin.

“Yes. Koby-san said we should be there in a day or so, though he did offer another stop if Luffy wants to go before Sabaody.” Robin informed the two.

“Really? Where?” Luffy asked, getting excited.

“Fishman Island.” She answered.

“REALLY!? That would be awesome! Let's go there!” Luffy immediately decided.

“Fishman Island, huh. That would mean we might see Jinbe...if hes there...” Sanji commented.

“REALLY!? JINBE!! I WANNA SEE HIM!” Luffy excitedly exclaimed, wanting to see the older whale shark fishman.

“Well, we don't know if he'll be there.” Robin informed him.

“Huh? Why?” Luffy asked.

“Jinbe became a very popular Diplomat.” She answered and Luffy looked at her confused.

“Diplo-what?” He never heard that word before.

“Diplomat. Someone who involves himself in politics, in Jinbe's case, he is going all over the world trying to grow the relationship between other races and Fishman.” Robin explained, though she worried that it might have been a little too complicated discussion for Luffy to understand.

“Hmmm, don't really get it, but Jinbe is accomplishing his dream, right?” Robin giggled and nodded.

“Essentially, yes.” Luffy chuckled.

“Shi shishishishi! I'm happy for Jinbe! Hopefully we can see him! Let's go to fishman island! We can see everyone else and if Jinbe is there, that would be amazing!!” Luffy declared as the other two smiled and nodded.

“I'll let Koby-san know.” Robin crossed her arms and created a body double that popped out from under the floor where Koby was, earning a scream from Hibari that was heard by the Strawhats.

“Oh, by the way, Luffy.” Sanji spoke as Luffy turned to him. “Fishman Island is no longer under the sea.” Luffy's eyes widened,

“Wait, really?” Sanji nodded.

“Yep, after what happened seven years ago, Fishman Island got destroyed, but they made a new Fishman Island on the surface.” Luffy's eyes widened. “Though, I guess there is a city underwater as well. Under the island is an underwater city as well that is connected to the surface city. The current Palace is in that underwater part of the island.”

“That sounds amazing!! I want to get there now!” Robin opened her eyes and lowered her arms as she smiled at her Captain.

“Well, we should be there by sunset so it'll be a perfect stopping place to rest before we get to Sabaody. Koby-san agreed so that's our next destination.” Luffy grinned widely and raised his arms.

“This is gonna be fun!”

~OP~

A few hours later, with the sun setting in the horizon, the large New Marine Battleship was approaching the new Fishmen Island. Luffy was already at the front of the ship, gazing at the marvel of the new home of the Fishmen and Mermaids. He looked down briefly to see a couple of Mermaids swimming alongside the ship, with some waving up at him with wide smiles. His eyes were full of wonder as the new Fishmen Island glowed with the majestic colors of the sunset.

“Woah!!!” Luffy was simply stunned. The surface part of the island was fairly large. Coral reef looking landscapes arched and made up most of the land. There was a large palace like tower at the far end of the island that towered over the rest. Buildings were on parts of the coral reef structures and what surprised Luffy the most were the trees that also surrounded parts of the island. He was then reminded of the promise he made with the Princess of Fishmen Island and wondered if she was able to go on the walk.

He believed she did and believed that his crew were the ones who fulfilled that promise. While he was a bit disappointed he couldn't keep his promise, he couldn't blame her. If his crew was able to do it, then he was okay with it.

“Beautiful, right?” Robin commented as she placed a hand behind her hair to keep it from going over her face. Sanji was beside her and looked at the island with a smile. It's been a while since either of them traveled to Fishmen Island so this was going to be fun for them as well.

“Yeah....I can't wait to go and explore it!” Luffy grinned.

“Just don't make a ruckus.” Hibari approached the group. “Remember, you're supposed to keep your identity a secret.” Hibari told him and crossed her arms.

“Ehhh...that's boring...” Luffy whined.

“I don't care! Koby-san told you this, remember!” Luffy pouted. “Don't give me that face!”

“Luffy not causing a ruckus? That's almost impossible, Hibari-chan.” Sanji commented.

“Then keep him on a leash or something. Aren't you his crewmates!?” She countered as Robin and Sanji looked at each other before chuckling. “What's so funny?”

“Hehehehe~ Try as much as we can, once Luffy gets excited, its hard to keep him in check.” Robin told her. “But that's just how he is.”

“Sounds stressful.” The two only agreed.

“In any case, we should probably go visit the King and Shirahoshi-chan the moment we arrive.” Sanji suggested.

“Ee, it's been a while since we saw them. What do you say, Luffy?” They turned to look at their Captain, only to find him missing.

“What!? Where did he go!?” Hibari searched frantically for him.

“Well, if he's anywhere...probably that thing over there that's flying towards Fishmen Island.” Sanji pointed towards the island in front of them. Hibari narrowed her eyes and saw a small figure flying towards the island and recognized it immediately as it being Luffy himself.

“ARE YOU KIDDING ME!?” She screamed in pure agony as Luffy's crew mates only chuckled at their Captain's antics.

~OP~

Luffy laughed as he rocketed himself from the ship towards the island. He reached one of the taller coral reef structures and stretched his arm, wrapping around it before landing his feet against the side of it. He raised his head and stared in wonder at the beautiful surface city of the New Fishmen Island.

It was bustling with Fishmen and Mermaids as long canals allowed some of the mermaids to swim across the city and towards other parts of the island. It was full of so many different variants of fishmen and mermaids, but what he also saw were humans. Humans of different races alongside the Fishmen. They were smiling, being happy and conversing with one another. There were also different races as well. He saw minks, members of the longleg tribe and even a Giant. His eyes widened as the Giant was helping someone move some construction materials for a couple of fishmen construction workers.

“Sugoi! This place is so amazing.” He watched some of the fishmen and mermaids swim across the water canals that worked like highways helping them reach different places across the city and wished he could try it. However, he was a devil fruit user, so he wasn't able to and the thought made him pout in disappointment.

“Ladies and Gentleman!!!!” Luffy perked his head up and searched for the voice, only to find out it was someones voice speaking through a Den Den Mushi loudspeaker. “MAKE WAY FOR THE PRINCE OF JOKELA KINGDOM!!!”

“Ooooh...what's that!?” Luffy asked as he saw a giant carriage heading towards the large palace building across the other end of the city.

There were large group surrounding the carriage of what looked like guards of this prince. Luffy was curious about what was happening and let his curiosity get to him as he stretched his arm to get a closer look. He swung through the city, grabbing the edges of the canals, buildings and other coral reef structures until he landed on the roof of the large building that the carriage stopped in front of.

He looked down to see someone come out of the carriage and it was someone who looked incredibly gaudy. A lot of jewelry, fancy clothing, fairly tall, blue hair, a pointy chin and smug expression. He also had a mustache that extended on each side into a swirl. He had a crown on his head embedded with jewelry and a cross shaped top with gemstones in the shape of the four suites. Heart, Club, Spade and Diamond.

Luffy took one look at him and found him to be weird and the aura around him reminded him similar to other royalty he never liked. However, he stopped caring about the Prince when the next person to exit the carriage was a tall, blue whale shark.

A very familiar, Blue Whale Shark.

His eyes widened when he noticed who it was. It was the former helmsman of his crew. Someone who saved his life and made him get through the tragedy of Ace's death.

“JIN-”

“Is everything ready for the assassination of the Mermaid Princess?” Luffy's ears perked up at that. He looked around. There was no one near him, at least from where he was. He looked down and noticed a couple of strange individuals with hoods in an alley way, just far enough from the crowd, but were still able to keep their eyes on the prince.. Luffy furrowed his eyebrows at them.

He looked back over to where Jinbe was. He was talking with that prince guy. He desperately wanted to go and give Jinbe the biggest hug he could give the larger fishmen. He clenched his fists and remembered what Koby told him.

We need to keep your identity a secret, at least until we see Sabo-san...

Luffy hated that rule when he was this close to seeing an old crew mate of his, but his attention was now on the hooded individuals who wanted to kill Shirahoshi.

“Yes, as long as that Prince does what he needs to do and get close to the Mermaid Princess, then that would be the moment he swoop in and kill her.”

Luffy's eyes widened when he heard this. His face scrunched into a glare and was getting ready to go and launch himself at the hooded men, but before he could, the men were already on the move and entered the large building through a back end.

“Jinbe...Shirahoshi...” Luffy needed to stop them. He looked back over to where Jinbe used to be and saw he, the prince and his guards entered the building themselves. He clenched his fists and started looking for a way in. He then saw a window that was left open and entered it. When he was inside, he realized something important...he had no idea where he was going.

END

Chapter Text

Chapter 11: The Assassination

“Hm? I wonder what's going on?” Sanji asked as they arrived at the docks and noticed a bit of commotion happening by the inhabitants. Robin joined next to him and noticed it as well.

“Well, we know how excited Luffy can get.” She smiled and then approached a green fishmen. “Excuse me, do you know what's going on?”

The green fishmen turned to her and smiled. “Oh, another suitor for the princess arrived. Everyone is excited about seeing the next possible King after King Neptune allowed interracial marriage. Having another race be the new King can help do wonders for us in creating good relationships with other races around the world.”

“I see. Thank you.” He gave her a nod and she walked back to Sanji. “It seems Shirahoshi-chan hasn't chosen someone yet.” Robin said as Sanji took a drag.

“Must be tough for her.” He responded.

“Well, maybe we can help her take her mind off of it. Plus, she'll be very happy to see him again, hehehehe~” Robin chuckled.

“yeah...tho...I'm surprised we haven't heard any commotion yet that involve our Captain.” Robin agreed that it was strange. Normally, Luffy would already do something loud and boisterous, allowing them to locate him quickly, but they haven't heard anything.

“That means Luffy-san is probably taking what I asked of him seriously.” Koby spoke as he joined them with Hibari.

“I'm honestly shocked, especially with the way he is.” Hibari commented. She may not have known him long, but she can tell he was someone who would cause trouble if no one was there to hold him back.

“Hmm, doesn't really sound like Luffy...then again...he does feel somewhat different...” Sanji commented.

“You noticed too? Sure is strange for Luffy, that's for sure. Yet, it's not so bad. Maybe he did mature a bit.” Robin added fondly.

“I don't know how to feel about that, but then again, who am I to complain when he's back, right?” Sanji added his own smile and Robin nodded in agreement.

“Well, we can probably guess where Luffy headed to. If there is a large crowd, that would probably get his attention.” Robin concluded and Sanji nodded in agreement.

“Either that or he found Hachi and Caimie-chan's Takodachi restaurant.” He suggested as well.

“Possibly, we should definitely stop by to their restaurant before we leave. I'm sure they'll be happy to see Luffy as well.” Robin fondly recalled the octopus fishmen and the green haired mermaid.

“If I remember, I think their restaurant is in the under city.” Sanji recalled. “Whenever we stop by to restock here, I remember that's where they had their restaurant.”

“I see, well since both of our destinations are in the under city, we might as well start heading there. Hopefully we run into Luffy before we get to the elevator.” Robin chuckled.

“I have business to do with the Marine base here in the upper city so me and Hibari would-”

“Admiral!!” All four of them turned to see a marine soldier running toward them frantically. This made them raise their eyebrows curiously. “Thank goodness you are here!”

“Hm? Calm down, Marine. What's the matter?” He asked as the marine grunt took deep breaths to calm down his racing heart.

“Sorry, sir!” He saluted him. “But we need your immediate help! We have gotten reports from our intelligent teams and confidants about a threat being planned by members of Crux.” Koby narrowed his eyes as he went to alert mode.

“Crux? Isn't that the organization that has been causing issues all over the place?” Sanji asked Robin.

“Ee.”. She furrowed her eyebrows as she remembered her own encounter with a member of Crux. “I had an encounter with one just recently until Luffy saved me from one of them.”

Sanji's felt anger boil up at the thought of someone trying to hurt Robin. “I see...I never met someone from Crux, but I heard stories from customers...”

“They're remnants of the old regime who despise the good changes in the world done after the war. They want to return to the old world where they ruled above others. They seem mostly target those who were heavily involved in changing the world, like myself.” Robin informed her fellow crew mate

“Tch, shitty bastards.” Sanji felt annoyed. “They don't know when to give up, do they.”

“I see.” Koby said as he finished hearing what the Marine had to say. “I'll start heading to the Palace. We have to be careful with how we handle this. We can't ignore this threat with an organization like Crux. We will start heading to the palace. Head back to the base and inform HQ of the situation. Let them know I'm here and I'll take charge in preventing this.”

“Yes, sir!” The Grunt saluted and stormed off to do what he was ordered to do.

“Hibari. Can you inform Tashigi-san to begin blocking off all the exits from the island. Have her inform all the ships nearby to start heading here. We can not let any of them leave this island. We will stop what they're planning and make sure none of them get off this island!”

“Yes, sir!” She saluted as well and headed back to their ship to contact Tashigi through the Den Den Mushi.

Koby then turned to the straw hats. “I'm sorry about this.”

“Don't be.” Robin told him with a smile as Sanji nodded.

“Thank you. Let's start heading to the elevator as quickly as possible.” He told them.

“I'll go on ahead, I'm faster so I should be able to reach there quickly and try to stop anything from happening if it does.” Koby nodded in agreement as that was their best option at the moment. With a nod from Sanji, he stormed as quickly as he could towards the elevator.

“Shall we?” Koby asked Robin and she nodded. The two ran after him, hoping to get there as soon as they could.

~OP~

“I hear this Princess of the Mermaids is breathtaking. However, not as breathtaking as me I Know. I will win her over with my beauty and we will unite our two races.” The Prince praised himself as he, his guards, Jinbe and The Royal Guards of Fishmen Island were together inside the large elevator.

“R-Right...” Jinbe muttered. He didn't like him. He could tell how snobby he was, but he also knew how important he was right now. Jinbe stood tall with his large figure, but age was slowly catching up to him as part of his black hair was now fading into white. More wrinkles appeared on his face, but not enough to make him appear like an old man. He wore his traditional robe and sandals as he looked over to one of the Royal Guards and nodded his head.

The fishmen guard nodded back and slammed his spear onto a spot on the floor that activated as a switch. The floor lit up to the ceiling and the elevator activated as it began to head down. The prince stumbled a bit at the sudden movement but regained his composure in time for him to see the underwater city of New Fishmen Island.

“Ooooooohhhhhhh....” He mouthed as he saw a magnificent site of the city. Many fishmen and mermaids swam around the city and some even waved at them from behind the window. The city was marvelous, glowing with the lights coming from under water plants. The largest building was the palace. It resembled the same design as the former palace, but much grander scale and glowing with a gold light. “WHAT A MAGNIFICIENT CITY!!!”

Jinbe chuckled. “Thank you.”

The elevator ride came to a stop on the bottom floor. The doors opened and revealed a long tube like pathway that showcased the wonders of the seas. The Prince gaped in awe at the sight. It was an incredible sight to see. Jinbe walked forward and turned to the Prince and the others in the elevator. He raised his hand to motion them forward. “This way, please. It's a bit of a walk, but the castle is this way.”

The Prince made a annoying groan, but started to move and walked past Jinbe, who stared at him in slight annoyance. He really didn't like him. However, he had his duties, but he also knew the Princess. She definitely was not going to pick him, so hopefully it doesn't take too long. He then followed right behind them as they made their way down the tube path.

At one point, they reach a hub where many stalls and people were gathered. It was a large market like area that had different paths to several different areas of the underwater city of Fishmen Island. The Guards cleared a path for the group to go towards the direction of the castle.

“Human and fishmen, huh...sounds gross...” The last part was said under the Prince's breath, which went unnoticed by everyone, except for Jinbe. He did not say anything back, but the uneasy feeling and dislike for the man grew. He would have to speak with the King about this, after Shirahoshi refuses to marry him.

They eventually got to the entrance to the castle and were greeted by the eldest son of King Neptune. The Prince looked up in complete shock at the height of Fukaboshi.

The eldest child of Neptune, the King of the Fishmen, towered over the young prince. He wore his old garb, but different colors that he wore seven years ago. His garment that he wore around his waist and fin was a dark red color that was held up by a light red sash. His long wavy blue hair flowed down his muscular and wide back as his face donned a blue beard that was almost similar to his fathers, but not quite as large. In his hand, a golden trident, similar to the one he had seven years ago.

Beside him was a mermaid who was a lot smaller than he was, but she had flowing green hair and a green fin. She wore a dress that ended by her belly button, giving her a mid drift. She even also had a pearl necklace around her neck and some small make up that made her blue eyes look even more gorgeous.

Jinbe approached the eldest Prince and bowed his head. “Fukaboshi-sama, I have returned. I have brought a new candidate for Shirahoshi-sama to wed, in hopes to unite humans and our people even more.”

Fukaboshi smiled at his friend. “Jinbe, there's no need to be so formal, we've know each other for so long.” He chuckled. “Thank you for your service.” he then looked down at the Prince of Jokela Kingdom. He observed him and the shocked state he was in and figured it had to do with how big he was compared to him. However, he also felt something off about him, but disregarded it.

“It is a pleasure to meet you, Prince Jokic of the Jokela Kingdom. Allow me to be the first to introduce you to our wonderful palace. I am Prince Fukaboshi, the next heir to the throne of Fishmen Island.” He bowed his head. “This here...” He pointed his hand to the mermaid beside him. “...is my fiancee, Lady Andrina.”

Andrina bowed her head in respect. “It is a pleasure to meet you, Prince Jokic. Welcome to our wonderful home.” She replied with gentleness and grace.

Jokic straightened himself up and cleared his throat, acknowledging the both of them. 'Just act cool, they are not suspicious of what you're planning, so just act natural. Once everything goes according to plan, these disgusting urchins will be killed by those assassins.' He then gave them a smile, one that Jinbe, Fukaboshi and Andrina found to be...odd. “I-It is a pleasure to meet both of you. I can't wait to meet the Princess and get to know her.”

“R-Right.” Fukaboshi suddenly felt something off about this man, but he also knew he had to maintain his decorum. He turned his body to the side and motioned for the group to follow him. “This way, please. My father and sister are waiting.”

Jinbe nodded and the group began following Fukaboshi down to the entrance of the palace and entered. When they got inside, guards were set up by every door in the palace. As this was an important occasion, security was beefed up. They made their way through the palace. They arrived soon in front of a large door that was even large than Fukoboshi himself.

The Guards in front of the door looked up the prince and once he gave then the nod, they began opening the door. As it slowly opened, the group was slowly given a look inside. It was a large hall with a long red and yellow rug that led to the other end of it. Surrounding the large room, was coral structured pillars that had shell like seats at the top. There were 6 in total. In the very center was the largest seat of them all. Sitting on it was none other than the King of the Fishmen himself. King Neptune.

Neptune was older as his beard and hair was slowly fading from orange to white. His body was still fairly large, but not as muscular as it once was. It was clear as day that he was now older. He had more wrinkles around his face and parts of his skin was slightly drooping as well. He looked up to see the group at the door and smiled at his son. “Ahhh...Fukoboshi...” He said softly.

“We have arrived, Father.” Fukoboshi smiled at his father. While King Neptune was getting older, Fukoboshi was learning the reigns of being a King from his father and doing some of the active duties he was not able to. It was the slow transition that Fukaboshi was going through as his father was nearing the end of his reign.

Jokic was in awe at the sight of the King of the Fishmen. He was huge, much bigger than the prince. The group made their way down the light blue coral floor towards the King. They stopped in front of the King as they stepped on the round area of the floor that was in the center surrounded by the six seats. Fukaboshi and Andrina took their seats to the left of the King as Jinbe took a couple steps forward to speak first to the King.

“Neptune-sama, I have returned.” He declared with a small bow.

“It is good to see you have returned safely, Jinbe-san. Thank you for your service.” Neptune did a small bow to show the Knight of the Sea the respect he felt he deserved.

“Thank you for your kind words, Neptune-sama.” He replied with a smile. He then turned to his side and pointed a hand to the Prince of Jokela Kingdom. “Allow me the honor to introduce to you the Prince of Jokela Kingdom, as well as a candidate for Shirahoshi-sama's hand in marriage, Prince Jokic-sama.”

Jokic straightened up a bit from the nervousness and took a few steps forward. “It is an honor to meet someone as esteemed as you, King Neptune.” He told the older fishman.

“Please, the honor is all mine. My daughter has been through many candidates for her hand in marriage, but I do hope both of you can get along.” He told the young prince. “Especially with the important significance this marriage can present to both of our races.”

“O-Of course. I-I couldn't agree more...” Jokic smiled with the end of his lip twitching slightly. 'Like hell I would want to marry disgusting species like yours...'

Jinbe and Fukoboshi eyed the Prince with caution. There definitely was something up with him that they did not like, so they were prepared for the worst case scenario.

“I am glad to hear that.” Neptune chuckled with a smile. “Then, let us now wait any longer.” He turned to one of the guards. “Please tell my son that it is time for Shirahoshi to meet Prince Jokic-sama.” The Guard saluted and went to relay the message to the missing members of the Royal Family. Neptune turned back to the Prince. “I can not wait for you to meet her, she is my pride and joy.”

“Y-Yeah...can't wait to meet her too.” Jokic nodded his head to appear normal. 'It's almost time...'

~OP~

Luffy opened a door and found nothing he cared about inside so he closed it. He continued to do so with each passing door he went by, in hopes Shirahoshi was in one of them. However, he didn't realize how much smaller the rooms were which would not have fit the large Princess in, however, he did put the two together.

Nope, not here too.” Luffy knew he had to hurry and find Shirahoshi. If what he heard was correct, some people were going to kill her and he had to stop it. He just was really lost.

He stopped to try and think of a way to get to where he needed to go, but felt his head hurt when he tried thinking too much and scratched his head in annoyance. “Damn it...I should have followed Jinbe...” He didn't know what his next move was, but he knew continuing to do this was going to get him nowhere.

Suddenly, he caught a whiff of something delicious. He drooled at the smell and felt his stomach grumble. He was really hungry. He shook his head, knowing he couldn't think of food at the moment. He needed to get to wherever Shirahoshi was.

However, Luffy being Luffy, couldn't hold back and followed the scent, in hopes to find whatever food smelled so good. He opened the door the scent was coming from and found a room filled with boxes of food. He grinned widely as drool flowed down the side of his mouth. He saw a stick of meat sticking out from one of the boxes and quickly stretched his arm out get closer and went inside the large box to start devouring the food inside.

“Swo...gwoood....” He commented as he munched. As he focused on his food, two guards appeared at the door and looked at each other.

“Did you leave the door open?” One of them asked the other.

“No...” They stayed before shrugging their shoulders.

“Well, whatever, we need to hurry and bring some of this food down to the Grand Hall. The Princess should be meeting that weird prince soon so they should be getting closer to having dinner.” The other guard nodded and went inside the room to grab the large cart that had boxes on it. It was the same box Luffy was currently devouring the food as neither him or the guards noticed the other.

The guards pulled the cart put of the room and made their way down the hall. One of the guards turned to the other. “We taking this down the main elevator?”

“Nah, that'll take too long. Let's take the freight elevator. It'll take us closer to the hall and then well just send each of the boxes down the dumbwaiter to the kitchen.” He responded as the other nodded. Luffy continued to happily eat oblivious to where he was going.

~OP~

Sanji arrived at the Grand Elevator and saw the large group of people gather around it. He continuously kicked his feet in the air as he looked from a high vantage point.

“Tch...so many lovely ladies, but no suspicious looking people.” Sanji commented while using his observation haki to scan the surrounding area. He saw no one who would rouse his suspicion. There were a lot of people gathered at the entrance to the elevator.

When he saw Koby and Robin pushing through the crowd to get to the elevator, he landed down into the crowd, causing some of them to jumped away from his arrival.

“What the...?”

“Who is that?”

“Did he come from the sky?”

Sanji didn't respond to any of their questions as he had created a small space for Koby and Robin to get to.

“Thank you, Sanji-san.” Koby thanked the cook. “There really is a lot of people here now.”

“Yeah, though no one seemed suspicious to me. Probably means they already headed down.” Koby nodded in agreement.

“How do they plan on doing the assassination?” Robin asked, wondering.

“It's uncertain and we don't have much more intel, so the only thing we can do is head down ourselves.” Koby replied.

“If we can get to it...” Sanji muttered looking at the crowd forming again around them.

“Well, I didn't want to do this, but we may not have enough time.” Koby reached inside his pocket and pulled out a Den Den Mushi. Sanji and Robin watched as he contacted someone and after a brief conversation with the person on the other end, a loud siren erupted around the city.

“What the...?”

“What's going on?”

“Is this some kind of emergency?”

“Mommy?”

Koby cleared his throat. “Everyone! I am Admiral Koby. I want everyone to stay calm! Please evacuate the area in a calm manner. Everything will be fine, but you must evacuate the area!”

The crowd began murmuring, but followed the Admirals order and slowly began to leave and evacuate the area.

“Wouldn't the alarm alert the assassins?” Sanji asked.

“I only asked for the alarm to go off in this area and close by. I can only hope it doesn't ruin our chances to stop the attempt.” Koby admitted.

“Regardless, we now have a path. Let us head down.” Robin told the two.

“I'll stay here for now. I want to make sure everyone here is safe. Once I have this area secure, I'll meet you guys down there.” Koby told them as the two nodded.

Sanji and Robin entered the elevator and with the help from one of the Fishman Guards, descended down to Under City.

“How do you think they plan on doing it?” Robin asked Sanji.

“I don't know. Security should be tight around the palace, but it's still concerning.” Sanji answered. “Regardless of how, we won't let them hurt Shirahoshi-chan.” Sanji added.

“~Hehehehe, yes.” As the elevator descended down, they caught a view of the Under City and all its glory. It was a majestic sight, but the two couldn't take in the sight at the moment. There were more pressing matters to deal with. When they arrived at the bottom floor, they rushed as quickly as they could towards the Palace.

~OP~

“It is my pleasure to welcome to the Throne Room, Princess Shirahoshi!!!” An attendant declared as all the individuals in the throne room became silent as a large door opened just behind the Throne to Neptune's Right. Everyone looked and were stunned at the sight of the Princess of the Fishmen.

Shirahoshi was led into the room by a well fashioned cart. Her long flowing pink haired flowed down her back and her short dress, with frills around the V-Neck adorned her body. Her reddish and pink mermaid tail was sparkling from being washed and cleaned with special moisturizer. Her makeup emphasized her beauty as her face matured. She had a ribbon tied in her hair and more accessories on her wrists and fingers.

Everyone was completely stunned by her appearance. Her lips shined with the pink lipstick she had on and her cheeks had a rosy tint. This was not her first go round with meeting a potential marriage candidate, but she was still nervous. She had no idea what to expect, but she knew her family, her father counted on her. She was very picky about who her type of person was, but she was aware that there were not many options left for her. She knew the importance of creating a union between her people and humans. She did not want to marry anyone without getting to know them first, but it became difficult, especially with her social awkwardness.

She may have been an Ancient Weapon, she might have used her powers to help people during the Great War, but it didn't really help in her social awkwardness. Making it harder to meet someone special. She hoped these meetings would help with that, but it wasn't working as she hoped.

She eventually arrived at her Throne. However, before she took her seat, she bowed her head in front of her father. “Good afternoon, Otou-sama. Onii-sama. Adrina-Oneesan! Are you doing well?”

Neptune smiled warmly at his daughter. “I'm doing well. Thank you. You look beautiful as always.” Shirahoshi smiled at her father's compliment. “Now then, have a seat and we can begin.” The Mermaid Princess frowned softly, but nodded and took her seat next to her father. “Now then, let us begin. Allow me to introduce to you my daughter, Princess Shirahoshi.” Neptune introduced her to the Prince of Jokela Kingdom.

Shirahoshi looked down and forced her best smile at him. “It is an honor to meet you.” She politely bowed her head.

Prince Jokic stared up at the young princess in awe. She was as beautiful as he was told, but what worried him more was what in the world was he getting himself into. He knew all he needed to do was keep them distracted for the Assassins to begin their plan. If he did that, they would accomplish their goal and they no one would be none the wiser that he had any involvement in it.

He disliked Fishman, maybe not to the extent of some of his cohorts, but he hated them for his own personal reason. He thought of them as lower than him. So when he was presented with the opportunity to take down the top of the Fishman food chain, he decided to do so.

He overhead Jinbe clear his throat to grab his attention and Jokic snapped out of his thoughts and cleared his voice. “My, what a beautiful specimen you are. It is an honor to finally meet the Mermaid Princess. I am Prince Jokic of the Jokela Kingdom.” Mostly everyone in the room, aside from Shirahoshi cringed at the way he spoke and moved his body around theatrically.

“Oh...ummm...thank you.” Shirahoshi responded. “You look...handsome as well.”

Jokic gleamed with pride. “Why thank you, I know I do.” He chuckled to himself.

'Oh no...another type like his...' Neptune sighed. He knew this was not going to end well and will end with Shirahoshi rejecting him. If there was one thing he knew his daughter disliked in how a person acted, it was exactly that.

Shirahoshi's smiled faltered a bit at the response. She wasn't a fan of that personality type and has rejected so many suitors already who acted in the same way. However, she also knew that they were running out of options. She knew her mother's dream was so close to become more than just that. So, she shook off her discomfort in regards to the Prince and giggled softly. “Y-Yes...umm...it is nice to meet you, Prince Jokic-sama.”

“Likewise.” He then straightened out and cleared his throat. “My dear Princess Shirahoshi. I know you must have been through many different suitors, hoping to join both our races together and create an everlasting union between us, as well as all other races in the world. It would be my honor to be part of that.” The sudden change in tone surprised everyone. It gave Neptune some hope that this might finally be the one they were hoping for. He peeked over at his daughter, but he saw that his sudden change didn't really affect her much. This of course worried him.

“I see. That makes me....happy to hear. I too wish for nothing but peace between our people. I'm glad you see it that way as well.” Jokic faked his smile, while internally praised himself for his acting.

“Of course! I wish for nothing but that.” He proclaimed proudly.

The duo continued to exchange conversation with one another, Jokic distracting the Princess and the rest of the throne room as planned. Outside of the throne room, several guards were guarding the entrance. Suddenly, one of the guards collapsed, causing the others to look over.

“W-What the? Oi, what's wrong?” The guard closest to the one that collapsed called out to him. However, he too collapsed as well. One by one, the guards collapsed.

“W-What's going on? Why is e-every....” A guard questioned before he too collapsed.

“What the? Oi!” The remaining guards looked around to find some sort of enemy, but there was no one in the hall aside from them. “What's going on?”

One of the guards sniffed the air and noticed there was some strange scent around them. “Hey...do you smell tha-” Before he could finish, he too collapsed.

“Hey!” The guard next to him called out. “Smell? What smell?” He took a sniff and noticed the smell as well. He quickly covered his nose. “There's something in the air, cover your noses!” He told the remaining 5 guards.

They did as he asked and used their forearms to cover their noses. “W-What is this? What's going on?” Another asked.

“I don't know. Could be a sleeping gas...or something...” The guard to his right answered.

“Indeed it is.” A voice behind the last remaining guards spoke. They all turned around to face the intruder, but saw nothing but 3 brown cloaks speed past them. The guards suddenly felt excruciating pain and collapsed all at once as the three robed individuals knocked them out physically.

The three robed individuals turned to each other and nodded. “The gas worked as advertised...as expected from Caesar's lab.” The middle guard spoke, revealing an empty vial.

“That clown's experiments have been important for our cause. We will make sure the World returns to its former glory.” The one on the right added.

“Yes, and in just a matter of moments...we will accomplish the greatest feat our organization has done to date. The death of the Ancient Weapon.” The middle agreed as the one on the left stayed silent, but nodded along with the other.

“Let's begin.” The leader of the group, the middle one, nodded to the other two and the three individuals began planting devices on the walls and on the door that led straight to the throne room. Once they planted all their devices, they met up at the door. “Now then...we wait for the signal.”

On the other side of the throne room, two more individuals enacted the same attack as the other three. The hall where Shirahoshi came from was now cleared out of the guards stationed there. The two met at the entrance to the throne room from their side and planted two more devices on the doors. The devices were square shaped with paper wrapped around it. A couple of wires were sticking out from two holes on one side of the device and into two others on the top of the device.

“Bombs are set.” One of the two cloaked in a brown hooded cloak confirmed as he spoke to a den den mushi.

“Good...send the signal...” The Den Den Mushi spoke with the voice coming out of it the same one as the leader of the other group.

“Understood.” The robed individual turned to the other and nodded. “Do it.”

“Right.” The other robed individual took out a radio device. They pressed the button on the side and a sound wave of sorts emitted from the radio device.

Inside the throne room, Jinbe perked up when he heard a small sound. “What is that?” He asked out loud as everyone paused their own conversation to look over at him.

Prince Jokic turned his head slightly and smirked. 'It's time...stay cool, stay cool...'

Suddenly, one of the Guards of the Jokela Kingdom groaned in pain. Everyone looked over as the guard place his hands on his head. He looked in pain as the radio waves emitting from the radio device increased in speed. “Arggghhhhh!” He suddenly screamed in pain. “Stop it! The noise! Stop it!!!” He shouted.

“Huh? W-What's going on?” Neptune asked. Shirahoshi looked on with worry over the guard. Jinbe quickly knew something was wrong and went over to the Royal Family to protect them in case of anything.

“Oi, what's wrong? Do you need any help?” Fukoboshi asked, approaching the guard.

“What can we do to help?” Andrina asked, right behind her fiancee.

“The noise...the noise...make it stop....arrghhhh!!!” The guard thrashed around now. “Make it stop!!!!!” He screamed loudly.

“Noise? What noise?” Fukoboshi asked. Jinbe perked up at the mention of a noise and realized what he was talking about. That noise he's been hearing, he guessed that was what he was referring to. He then spotted something within the guards armor and his eyes widened when there was some sort of soft light was emitting from it.

“Prince Fukoboshi, Lady Adrina! Get away!” Both turned to Jinbe and when the light began to shine brighter, they turned to see the guard covered in it. Fukoboshi instinctively turned around and grabbed his fiancee jumping away from the guard as he exploded. Everyone screamed as the explosion caused the room to shake.

“Kyaaahhh!” Shirahoshi screamed as she covered her eyes. Neptune did so as well as the gust of wind that came from the explosion irritated his eyes. Then more explosions occurred. One went off behind the King and Shirahoshi, while the other at the entrance to the throne room. Jokic was not expecting the blasts to be so large and was launched to the side of the room, bouncing and landing on his face away. All the devices were set off as the whole room was smoke filled from the aftermath from the explosions. Shirahoshi coughed and placed a hand to her mouth to prevent any of the smoke from entering her lungs. She looked over to her father and her eyes widened as he was on the ground.

“Otou-sama!” She tried to get to him, but all of a sudden, a gun was fired and the next thing she knew, chains began wrapping around her and tightening to keep her in place.

Jinbe, who was also trying to prevent smoke from entering his lungs, had a hard time seeing what was happening. However, he did hear Shirahoshi screaming and turned himself in the direction of her voice. “Shirahoshi!!” He called out to her.

“Fukuboshi!? Fukoboshi!” He turned in the other direction and saw Lady Adrina calling out her fiancee's name as he laid next to her, a large burn mark on his back from the first explosion.

“Prince Fukoboshi!” Jinbe gritted his teeth as the entire room was in chaos. The smoke was slowly dispersing through the holes they created, making the room a little bit clearer. When his view of the room was getting clearer, his eyes widened in horror at what he was witnessing. Fukoboshi and Neptune were both on the ground. Concern over their well being flooded through his body. When he turned to look back at Shirahoshi, his eyes widened farther when he saw two large chains wrapped around her.

“Hnnnggg....Otou-sama...” Shirahoshi cried out, her concern for father her utmost concern.

“Shirahoshi!” Jinbe called out to her. “What's going on? Who's behind this!?” He asked as he looked around.

“Knight of the Sea...Jinbe...shame you didn't get caught in the explosion.” Jinbe's eyes widened when he saw three robed individuals approach the room.

“Who are you!?” The large shark fishman demanded.

“Hmph...” The middle and leader of the group lowered his hoodie to reveal who he was. Jinbe furrowed his eyebrows at the intruder. The man was around his mid-30's. Short black hair and a scar over his right eye down to his left cheek. His red eyes narrowed at the former helmsman of the Pirate King.

“Who are you? What do you want?” The black haired assassin turned his head to Shirahoshi.

“What we want...is the old world...the one you destroyed...the one she destroyed...” He calmly said. “In order to do that, we must get rid of those who caused this despicable new world. Starting off...with the Ancient Weapon.” Shirahoshi let out a whimper of pain as the chains tightened around her.

“I see...you...I'm gonna assume you are part of that organization I've been hearing about lately.

“Crux....that's correct. Honestly, I didn't expect anyone to be conscious with all the blasts going off, but...not surprising you were able to.” He then looked over at lady Adrina who was by her fiancee's side and was glaring down at the man. “Oh...we have someone else as well...” he looked down to the body of Fukoboshi and simply said. “...how romantic...”

“You...” Lady Adrina glared at him in disgust.

“Take care of her.” He told one of the other robed individuals. The one to his left nodded and sky walked into the air before pulling out a sword from within their robe. Lady Adrina gasped as she saw the robed individual descend down to attack her.

“Lady Adrina!” Jinbe yelled, trying to get to her, but was stopped when the leader of the group stepped in front of him to block him. 'Fast...' Jinbe thought before he sensed a strong kick heading his way. He quickly raised his hand to block it, but the force pushed him away. He felt his hand shake from the pain of his kick. 'Strong...' He looked up and gasped when he saw Lady Adrina about to get struck by the robed figure. “Stop!”

“I won't let you touch a lady...not while I'm here!” Jinbe's eyes widened at the familiar voice and saw a streak of blond hair appear to counter the figure's sword with their leg.

The man was none other than his former crew mate, Sanji. Sanji, using his hardened exoskeleton blocked the blade from touching Lady Adrina and then kicked the sword to push the figure away from her. They both landed on the ground and Sanji eyed the hooded individual.

“S-Sanji...you...why are you...?” Jinbe was shocked by his sudden appearance. Not that he wasn't happy, but he was not expecting for his friend to show up. Sanji turned to the older fishman and gave him a small smile.

“Yo, Jinbe...I'd like to catch up, but...” He looked over to the hooded figures and the black haired leader. “...seems we have to hold off on it until we get rid of these weirdos.”

“Right...thank you...” Jinbe smiled back. The leader of the group became annoyed at the sudden appearance of Sanji. This was not expected at all. However, he composed himself. They were still in control.

“My, what an honor to have two former members of the Straw Hats here. Not only can we get rid of the Ancient Weapon, but two members of the crew that destroyed our old world.” The man spoke as Sanji eyed him, not really impressed. “Hockney, Naria, plans have changed. You deal with the two of them. I'll go kill the Princess.” he told his allies. The two other hooded figures lowered their hoods to reveal themselves to Jinbe and Sanji.

Sanji eyed the one he blocked and saw that the person was a woman with dark auburn hair. Green eyes and a scar that covered the bottom half of her right cheek. “Oh...what a beautiful mademoiselle.” Sanji complimented her. However, she did not care for it and pointed her sword at him.

“I heard about you...the ero-cook...” Sanji felt a twinge at that name.

“...oi...and exactly where did you hear that name from, my dear.” She just continued to stare.

“I heard it from that swordsman....I will get my revenge on him no matter what...” She replied, stoic. Sanji's eyes twitched.

“That damn moss-head...” He figured that was the case, but calmed himself down. He sighed. “Sorry, but I don't want to hurt you and your pretty face.” Sanji told her. She got annoyed by that.

“You...you think you can do that chivalry with me? I know you can't fight woman, so I'll be the one to kill you.” She screamed and charged at Sanji. Sanji just took a puff of his cigarette.

“You're right...I don't fight woman...but....” Naria jumped up to slash down at the cook, but Sanji stayed still as he sword stopped just in front of his cigarette. Her eyes widened. She tried moving, but her body was stuck. In fact, she felt something grab her body and looked down to see a giant hand underneath her. Her eyes widened.

“W-What!? What is this?” She screamed, feeling a bit disgusted by the giant hand.

“...sorry...I won't fight you...but...another lovely lady can.” Sanji turned his head to see Robin enter the room, her hands crossed against her chest. She smiled at the trust Sanji gave her.

“Thank you, Sanji. Allow me to take care of this naughty one.” Naria looked over at Robin and gritted her teeth.

“You...you're Nico Robin...” Robin giggled.

“Oh, you know me...how flattering...” She mocked her as Naria growled at the black haired woman.

“Robin...” Jinbe mouthed, surprised to see her as well. She looked over to him and smiled.

“My, it's good to see such a handsome man again.” She playfully teased him.

Then, behind Robin, the third hooded individual appeared behind her, getting ready to strike her. However, Sanji, using his speed, blitzed the individual on his side. The individual was sent flying a bit before landing on his feet, sliding to a stop. Sanji looked over at him and glared.

“How dare you try and hurt a lady.” The third individual stood up and Sanji saw his face. The man had short brown hair and an eye patch over his left eye. He had a stubble and his circular blue eye were his defining features.

“...” The man said nothing as he got into his fighting stance.

“Hmmm...not much of a talker, huh?” Sanji eyed him as he watched his movements closely.

Jinbe did not expect to see both of his former crew mates here. He was very thankful. However, this wasn't the time to catch up. He turned to the black haired individual, the leader of the three. “Looks like the odds have evened up. I won't let you kill the Princess!” Jinbe told him as he got into his fishman karate stance.

The man was annoyed by the new problems arising, but he knew he was still in control. “I wouldn't say that...”

“Hm?” Jinbe didn't know what he was referring to, until two other individuals suddenly appeared, the same ones that planted the bombs in the other entrance, and went to attack Jinbe from behind. “Shit...” Jinbe quickly turned around and crossed his arms to block their attacks. He slid a few feet from them and before he could react to their sudden appearance. Their leader rushed past him, heading straight towards Shirahoshi.

“Shirahoshi!!!” Jinbe yelled out as everyone turned to see the leader jump and fly towards the Mermaid Princess, a sword in his hand. The blade turned black due to his haki and Shirahoshi's eyes widened as she couldn't move at the approaching assassin.

“Shit...” Sanji tried to get to her with his speed, but the individual named Hockney was a step ahead and attacked Sanji, who had to change course and block his punch with his leg. “You....”

Robin wanted to do something as well, but Naria slashed at her hand, causing Robin to cry in pain and release her from her grasp.

None of them, were going to make it in time. Shirahoshi was going to get killed. With one last ditch effort, she screamed. “HELP ME!!!!!!!”

“Die!!!” The leader yelled as he pulled back, ready to strike.

Suddenly, above the throne room, part of the ceiling collapsed. Everyone looked up, wondering what was happening now. The ceiling's debris started falling, just slightly in front of where Shirahoshi was currently trapped. The leader of the group turned his head upward in shock.

A line of smoke suddenly shot forward through the rest of the debris and smoke, heading towards the assassin. The silhouette of a figure began appearing within the smoke and was descending down fast. Before the assassin could blink, he saw a blurry white figure appear just above him, red eyes glaring down at him like a monster. Without even getting a chance to see what it was, he was punched in the face, sending him straight down to the ground.

Shirahoshi's eyes widened as tears ran down her cheeks as she got a close up look at the figure. She couldn't believe what she was seeing.

Sanji smirked as he quickly realized who it was. Robin took a moment longer, but she too showed a smile. Jinbe's eyes widened when he noticed the shape and familiarity of the figure that just appeared. A ghost that he believed he would never see again.

Aceeeeeee!!!!!

I have my friends!!!

Jinbe....join my crew!

Don't forget....Jinbe!! I am your captain now!!

We'll wait for you at Wano, you must come!!

Thank you...Jinbe!

JINBE!!!!!!

“I-It can't be...L-Luffy-kun...”

The white figure, Luffy's Nika form, bounced around and laughed. Luffy's Nika form, was similar to his regular form, but because of his long hair, he was bouncing around using his hair as springs. He finally noticed the room and his eyes landed on Jinbe. With a wide grin, he bounced toward hims, blowing past the two hooded figures, using his hair to knock them out in the process. With a wide grin, he hugged his older and wise crew mate, wrapping his rubber around him.

“JINBE!!!!!!! I'M BACK!!!! SHI SHISHISHISHI!!!!”

Jinbe was too confused and stunned by his appearance, but once he got through the shock, he started tearing up and crying as he felt all the emotion of missing his dear friend escape. He touched Luffy, feeling him against his webbed hand and cried out.

“LUFFY-KUN!!!!!!

END

Chapter Text

Chapter 12: The Captain and the Helmsman

“Whoa...did you feel that?” One of the fishman that was moved the large wagon of food asked. The floor shook beneath them.

“I-I don't know...wait...it feels like it's coming from below us, no?” The other asked.

“W-What? No...that's impossible...the throne room is right underneath us. Why would it be causing that?”

“Maybe someone is attacking us?” The two looked at each other for a brief moment and then shrugged the idea off.

“Naaahhh! No way!” They both started to laugh. A barrel suddenly fell from the wagon, spooking the two fishmen.

“AAAAHHHH!” They screamed while hugging each other. They stared at the barrel and let out a deep sigh of relief.

“Ah man, it's just a barrel...”

“Yeah...getting scared about a barrel...we're guards, something like that shouldn't scare us...hahaha...”

“Meaaattt...” Both fishmen had their eyes widened and turned to look over at the barrel. Suddenly, a hand came out of the barrel, scaring the two fishmen.

“AAAAAHHHH MONSTER!” They screamed in complete fright.

The hand was reaching out to look for something, but when it couldn't find what it needed, the rest of the body started to come out of the barrel. The fishmen guards shook in their boots as the individual within the barrel crawled out.

His ponytail black haired head looked up and around, locking them with the two guards. “Huh? Who are you?”

“THAT'S WHAT WE SHOULD BE ASKING!!!” They both yelled at him.

Luffy blinked before laughing at their reaction. Annoyed by him, one of the guards picked up their spear and pointed it at Luffy. “Identify yourself!!!”

Luffy blinked at him and grinned. “I'm Mon-” He stopped however when he heard a voice below him. “Shirahoshi?” He muttered.

“Huh? Why do you know the Princess' name!?” The other guard questioned him, aiming his spear at Luffy.

“Sorry...but...I can't stay...” Luffy told them. The two guards gave him questionable looks and before they could say a word, Luffy beat his chest.

The sounds of drums rang within Luffy as his body and hair began turning white. Small bursts of haki exploded from him, causing the two fishmen to get blown back and knocked unconscious. Luffy's smile slowly turned to a familiar smirk and then grin.

Luffy then jumped and started to punch through the floor. “Gomu Gomu no...gatling gun!” He shouted and continuously punched the floor, breaking through it inch by inch. When he started to get deeper, he pulled his hands, grinned and grabbed parts of the floor around the hole and then launched himself through.

He reached back with his fist and then gave one final punch to the ground as it broke and the surrounding infrastructure gave in as well. He reached the throne room with a loud bang, diving faster towards the ground. He looked down and as the smoke dissipated he saw a brief glimpse of what was happening and noticed a person he didn't recognize going at Shirahoshi.

He immediately took this man as the reason why he heard Shirahoshi's voice and landed a fierce and strong punch to the man's face, timing it perfectly. The man felt Luffy's fist force itself into his face, likely leaving both a bruise and small mark. The force of the fist sent the man crashing hard straight into the ground.

Luffy grinned before landing on the ground as well and discovered that with his long hair, he was able to freely bounce with different strands of his hair and started to laugh.

“Hahahahaha!” He felt so giddy int his form and it was such a nostalgic feeling. He loved this form very much, allowing him to be the most free. He looked around as he bounced and his eyes immediately spotted Jinbe, who looked back at him with a stunned look. His chest was filled with warmth at the sight of his dear friend and quickly bounced towards him, smashing two cloaked individuals to the ground on the way, completely uncaring for their presence, and hugged his helmsman.

“JINBEIIIII!!!!”

“L-LUFFY-KUN!!!!” They called each other's name. Jinbe felt tears stream down his face. The warmth of Luffy's body was there, proving to him that he was real. That he was alive. After everything that happened over the last seven years since he thought he died. What occurred today, it was possibly the happiest he felt in such a long time. His Captain, his friend was alive and he once again saved Shirahoshi, saved his people.

“Shi shishishi!” Luffy laughed alongside his tearful friend. Robin and Sanji looked on with warm smiles at the sight of another reunion. A moment that they know will be more of.

“W-What is going? Who is...wait...that can't be...that's...” Naria couldn't finish as hands sprouted around her shoulders and clamped her mouth shut. She tried yelling, but was muffled by the hands as she turned to look at Robin.

“Sorry...but...I can't let you go now that you've seen him...” She told her. Naria tried to respond back through the muffled noises, but Robin sprouted more arms around her body, wrapping them around her and contorting her body to position. “Clutch!” Robin closed her hands and the arms around Naria forced her body to bend back, earning a bone breaking sound from the girl's body. She screamed in agony through her hands and then lost consciousness from the pain.

The third and last assassin was flabbergasted at how easy Naria was taken down. He took one last glance at Luffy and knew he had to report this to the higher ups of Crux. He turned and sped towards the exit.

“You're fast...” The last member of Crux was shocked when he saw Sanji running right next to him, matching his speed. “...but you're not as fast as me.” Sanji then got ahead of him before raising his leg. “Tendron!” Sanji delivered a straight kick to the assassin's collar bone, sending him flying towards the other unconscious assassins, landing hard on the ground. Groaning in pain, the man lost consciousness from the strong attack of one of Luffy's wings.

The four former members of the Straw Hat crew gathered together, Robin using her powers to form hands on the floor and bring Naria's body to where the others lay. Luffy finally let go of Jinbe and floated right beside his crew. A smile grew on his face as he looked at the three he reunited with so far. “Shi shishishi! I missed you guys!”

Robin, Sanji and Jinbe looked at each other before smiling and nodding together. “Luffy-kun...how is this possible...how are you alive?” Jinbe asked.

“I don't know.” Luffy simply replied as he twirled and floated in the air with his body in a laying position and hands behind his head.

“You don't know!?” Jinbe asked.

“It seems our Captain doesn't recall much of what happened with his battle with Imu. Regardless, to have him back is what matters in the end.” Jinbe nodded.

“Yeah, you're right.”

“Luffy...sama...” Everyone turned their attention to the Mermaid Princess as she looked down at Luffy with widened eyes. She couldn't believe it. The man who did so much for her was alive and saved her again. She was so overjoyed that her tears just started pouring out of her eyes. “I'M SO GLAD YOU'RE ALIVE, LUFFY-SAMA!!!!!” She cried as Luffy laughed.

“Shi shishishi! Shirahoshi! It's good to see you too!” He floated toward her, giving her his iconic grin. “You alright?” He asked, looking at her, the chains around her and the bodies that were laying all around.

“Y-Yes! Thanks to you, Luffy-sama!” She smiled with feeling gratitude and warmth through her body. However, her happiness was short lived when she remembered her father and brother. “Oh no! Otou-sama! Onii-sama!” Everyone suddenly remembered the injured bodies of King Neptune and Fukaboshi. Jinbe quickly went to go check on them and was relieved to see that they were still breathing.

“They're still breathing!” Jinbe announced. “But they need medical attention!”

“How far away is the nearest doctor?” Sanji asked.

“Not too far.” Jinbe responded. “I'll head over with you.” Jinbe offered, however was stopped by Lady Adrina.

“No, let me. I can help carry the medical staff and bring them here faster.” She offered approaching the group. “It's the least I can do to help my family.”

“I see. Then please.” Jinbe asked of her. Lady Adrina nodded.

“I'll go with her.” Sanji offered and the two starting heading out to find doctors.

Meanwhile, Luffy grabbed the chains around Shirahoshi and inflated his head to bite down and destroy them with ease. “Amazing, Luffy-sama.” No matter how long she had known him for, he still amazed her.

“Shi shishishi! No problem. I'm glad I made it in time.” He told her. “I still have to keep my promise.” Shirahoshi's eyes widened as the memory of the promise they made came back to her. She felt tears in her eyes getting ready to burst.

She suddenly grabbed Luffy and hugged him to her cheeks, rubbing his body. “Luffy-sama!! You remembered!”

“Of course!” He grinned against her cheek. Jinbe and Robin both looked up the two with warm smiles on their faces.

In the corner of the room, behind a pillar, Jokic looked on with panic. The plan completely failed and now he was stuck in a room with none of his guards available and the exit across the way. However, he would be spotted easy if he tried to book it.

'Shit, shit, shit...I knew I shouldn't have trusted them...now I'm screwed...wait...maybe I can play it off and pretend I didn't have anything to do with it. Yeah, that could work..' Prince Jokic nodded himself, thinking it was the perfect plan. He cleared his throat and prepared himself to lie his way out of this situation.

“Oh thank goodness you are safe, Princess!!” Everyone turned their head to Prince Jokic as he approached them. “That was very terrifying, but I'm glad you are all safe.”

Jinbe eyed the Prince with every ounce of suspicion he had. There was definitely something off about him and the fact that the death of his guard started everything, he had no reason to trust this man. Even the way he spoke sounded like a facade.

“Prince Jokic of Jokela Kingdom.” Robin spoke as everyone looked at her.

“Hmm, you know him, Robin?” Luffy asked as he floated down to them.

“Not personally, but...” Robin paused for a moment. “...I do remember hearing some...interesting stories coming from his kingdom.”

“O-Oh...and what kind of stories would those be, hahaha.” Jokic smiled nervously.

“Nothing. Just heard a while back about some...illegal activities the kingdom was performing...but that's something you couldn't have been involved with.” She smiled at him.

“R-Right...” He laughed nervously. 'How did this woman know about any of that?' He was stunned that someone would even know about anything illegal his kingdom was up to. He was certain they kept their tracks hidden well.

“Illegal?” Jinbe asked. “I see...” He eyed the Prince who jumped slightly from his gaze. “If that is the case, then unfortunately we can not continue this arrangement. We care very much about our Princess and we don't wish to have her marry someone with possible connections to some illegal activities”

“What!?” Jokic yelled. He never felt so insulted in his life. “How dare you!? Do you even know who I am!? I am Prince Jokic of the Jokela Kingdom! You dare reject me! You have no idea who you are messing with! You will pay for saying such things!!! Who wants to marry a disgusting fishman anyway!? No wonder she can't find a bride! She's nothing but a disgusting merma-” Before he could even finish, he was suddenly punched in the face but an angry Luffy. Shirahoshi eye's widened at the sudden abrupt attack. Jokic was sent flying straight to a pillar, smashing through and straight into a wall.

Everyone looked with stunned expressions as they looked over at Luffy. He suddenly took a deep breath and puffed his chest out released the breath he was holding. “That guy was annoying.”

Everyone was silent until Robin couldn't help but let out some giggles at her Captain. “Well done as always, Captain.”

He looked over at her and grinned. He bounced around in excitement at the praise as everyone couldn't help but smile and laugh along with the man who brought forth the dawn of the Third World.

~OP~

A man held onto the wall, trying heavily to keep himself on his feet. His face had a fist imprinted on it and blood dripped down his temple and the corner of his mouth. He panted heavily as the injuries he sustained made it a struggle to just keep himself on his feet. He barely was able to remain conscious. He didn't know how, but he managed to sneak away from the throne room. The assassination was a failure. He failed.

“I...I have to report...report to the boss...he's alive...” He muttered under his breath. Just speaking softly hurt his voice. The damage to his face was almost unbearable. The man, who tired to assassinate Shirahoshi, needed to let crux know of the return of the Sun God. He leaned against the wall and reached inside his cloak to take out a den den mushi. He turned it on and dialed the number.

After a few rings, and a 'Kuh-chuck', a voice came out of the snail's mouth. “Speak.”

“I...I have a report...” The man began.

“Grayson...I assume your call means Poseidon has been killed.” The voice behind the den den mushi spoke. The voice, despite speaking calmly, had a terrifying and threatening tone to it.

“N-No...I...”

“You failed? Consider this your ter-”

“No wait!” Grayson yelled. “There is something you need to know!”

A long pause before the voice spoke again. “...what?”

“We...we were this close to killing her, but we were stopped...he's back sir...Monk-” Before he could get the name out, a fist came out of no where and slammed right into his face. His head slammed directly to the wall, causing it to crack and leave a dent. Grayson groaned before losing consciousness.

“Speak...what happened?” The voice on the other side of the den den mushi asked, still showing a level of calmness in his voice.

The individual who punched him picked up the dial of the den den Mushi and spoke into it. “This is Admiral Koby of the New Marines. Is this the leader of Crux?”

No response came for a bit, making Koby think he scared the man away. “Interesting.”

“Hm?” Koby raised an eyebrow at the response.

“Congrats on capturing my subordinate...though...I doubt he would call if it was just because of you Admiral.” The voice responded. “It seems something else has happened and you wanted to make sure he did not speak of it.”

There was some familiarity with the voice, but he couldn't quite place it. “I don't know what you're talking about. I was the one who stopped them.”

“Hahaha...” The voice chuckled in the most monotone voice Koby ever heard. It was almost scary. “You humor me. It seems I have to find out what you're hiding Admiral...and don't worry...we will.”

Koby stared down at the dial and clenched it slightly. “We won't let you get away with this.”

“Try all you wish...but...we are not afraid to die to bring back our old world...our better world...this will be the last you hear my voice...and admiral...good luck.” Before Koby could say anything in response, the snail 'ku-chuck' into silence, ending the call.

“Tch...” Koby placed the dial onto the top of the den den mushi. He looked down at the assassin named Grayson and sighed. He then took out his own den den mushi from within his admiral coat and used it to contact Hibari.

“Admiral Koby-san!” Hibari spoke from the other end.

“Hibari, we need you to bring some officers down here. We have successfully captured members of Crux.” Koby asked of her.

“We are on our way!”

“Thanks.” He ended the call and looked down at the assassin again. “Shit...”

~OP~

“You can't do this to me!!! I'm a Prince!! You will all lose your jobs after this! My father will show you no mercy!!” Marine officers dragged the Prince of Jokela Kingdom away in handcuffs, along with the members of Crux that were defeated by the Straw Hats. Koby, who arrived a few minutes after his conversation on the den den mushi, watched as his officers take away the criminals.

Koby sighed before turning to Robin. “By the way, how did you know about his possible connections to Crux?” Robin giggled.

“Oh, I didn't.”

“Huh?”

“I just took a chance and he took the bait. Fufufufu~”

“Hahaha...I see. Well, thank you for that Robin-san.” Koby thanked her.

“Otou-sama! Are you okay!?” Shirahoshi called out for her father as he stirred awake.

“Urghhh...my head...what happened?” Neptune asked looking at the worried expression on his daughter's face.

“I'm so glad you're okay...” She cried happily in relief.

“Isn't that great, Shirahoshi, Shi shishishi!” Luffy laughed as he floated near her arm, looking down at her King Neptune as well.

“Yes, Luffy-sama!!” The Princess smiled at her savior, a small blush on her cheeks.

“Huh?” King Neptune looked over to the white Nika formed of Luffy and blinked a few times at him. “...A-Am I dead? Is this heaven?”

“No, father. It is not.” Neptune turned his head to the other side and saw a bandaged Fukaboshi looked down at his father win one eye, the other covered by a bandage. Lady Adrina clinging to his arm affectionately, feeling relieved her fiancee was going to be okay.

“Ahhh...Fukaboshi...you died too...”

“Father...we're not dead...”

Neptune blinked at his son and then turned back to Luffy who was grinning at him. “Then...why am I seeing...”

Father, Luffy-sama came back! He's alive.” Neptune took a bit to process the new information before he let out a loud yell.

“EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!??????????????” He quickly jumped in shock at the news and got closer to Luffy to make sure he really wasn't seeing things. “Is it really you, Luffy-kun!?”

“Shi shishishi! Yep, it's me. I'm back!” He laughed at the reaction Neptune gave. Neptune couldn't believe it. Their hero, the man who saved fishmen island not once, but twice was alive and right in front of him.

“This...this is amazing news!!! We shall celebrate your return with a grand feast!” Neptune declared with a lot of joy.

“Really!? Let's gooo!!!” Luffy cheered along side him.

“Isn't that wonderful, Luffy-sama!?” Shirahoshi felt happy for Luffy.

“Father sure is filled with so much energy all of a sudden...” Fukaboshi commented in surprise.

“Hehehe, that's a good thing. I always wanted to meet the fabled Straw Hat.” Lady Adrina added as she looked up at her fiancee affectionately and then at Luffy.

“Yeah...I guess it is.” He smiled as he was in the end glad everyone was safe.

“Let us share the news with the entire island! A grand feast for our hero's return.” Neptune declared as Luffy cheered.

“Ahhh, Neptune-sama, please wait!” Koby interrupted them as they looked down to him. “A feast is fine and all, but please don't announce this to anyone.”

“Oh, you're that admiral...” Neptune recognized Koby after his heroics in the Great War.

“Yes. My apologies, but if you don't mind just having a private feast for now. We don't want Luffy-san's return to be known yet...at least until we reached Headquarters.” Koby told him.

“Ah...I see...well...that's fine...I understand. Such a shame though...this is such a joyous occasion.” Neptune didn't quite understand it, but figured there had to be some reason behind it.

“Huh...? So we're not gonna have a party?” Luffy asked, looking between Koby and Neptune.

“Oh no, we will! It'll just take some time to prepare.” Neptune reassured him.

“I see. Shi shishishi! Can't wait then!” Neptune turned to his son.

“Let's get the preparations started. We should also let Ryuboshi and Manboshi know we are okay.” Fukaboshi nodded.

“Will do. Shirahoshi, take our guests back to your room as they wait for us to finish.”

“No, please let me. Both of you are hurt and I-” Shirahoshi tried to reason with her brother and father, but both shook their heads in disagreement.

“It's fine. You should spend time with Luffy-sama and the others.” He told her.

“Don't worry, I will watch over them, Shirahoshi-chan.” Lady Adrina reassured her future sister-in-law with a smile.

“Ah...hai!” She smiled brightly in return. Neptune looked down and turned to Jinbe.

“Jinbe...”

“Neptune-sama...allow me to apologize for what happened. I didn't think...” Neptune was quick to reassure his loyal friend.

“Don't apologize. This was not your fault. I was just going to tell you to go with them as well. I know you must have missed Luffy-kun this entire time. Go, spend time with your former Captain.” Jinbe looked up at the king of his people and couldn't describe the immense respect he had for him. He was glad to consider him as a close friend.

“Thank you...Neptune-sama!” Jinbe lowered his head in respect as Luffy floated down to his former helmsman and grinned at him.

“Isn't that great Jinbe!!” He looked over to his Captain and gave him a wide grin.

“Luffy-kun...” He closed his eyes as tears formed in his eyes once again. “Thank you...both of you.” He spoke to both Luffy and Neptune.

Everyone stared at Jinbe with warm smiles before either heading to Shirahoshi's room or followed Neptune and Fukaboshi.

~OP~

“I see...so you don't remember anything.” Jinbe asked as they sat on Shirahoshi's comfy bed, with the Mermaid Princess laying down on her stomach, elbows on the bed and head on her hands. She listened to the conversation intently, but kept her eyes on Luffy as he ate some small snacks that she had laying around.

“Nope.” Luffy nodded.

“That is strange...” Jinbe whispered under his breath,

“Well, if most of his memory returned, its likely the rest would as well.” Sanji added as he sat in between Luffy and Jinbe. “Who knows, he might just remember it randomly or see something that could jog his memory.”

“That is a possibility.” Robin agreed, sitting next to Jinbe on the other side. “Some memory loss can come back by just seeing something that is connected to it.”

“Maybe Chopper can help us too when we go see him.” Sanji offered.

“Oooohhh! Chopper! I hear he's doing great, Shi shishishi! Works at umm...Sashimi or something.” Luffy grinned.

“It's Sakura.” Sanji corrected him. Robin only chuckled as Jinbe looked at him with a warm smile. Shirahoshi smiled down at them, feeling a little out of place.

“Oh yeah, Jinbe, I heard you were a di..di...die pillow or something.” Luffy struggled to remember the word as the others either chuckled or sweat dropped at their Captain.

“You mean diplomat. Yes.” Jinbe corrected him. “For the last several years I've been working on my dream of changing the relationship between humans and Fishmen. We've been trying to find a human Prince to marry Shirahoshi, with her consent of course, to help with those relations.”

“Eeeehhh...” Luffy hummed, thought his crew could tell he wasn't necessarily following the conversation.

“He's basically saying he wants humans and fishmen to work together and not hate each other.” Robin simplified as much as she could. “That way we don't get another Hody situation or see fishmen wind up like what almost happened to Keimi.” Luffy frowned at those memories. Now he was caught up with an understanding of what Jinbe was trying to do.

“As Nico Robin said, that's my job as a diplomat. I thought there was a chance that Prince Jokic would be a good candidate, but...I thought wrong.” Jinbe looked up to Shirahoshi. “My apologies, Shirahoshi-sama...If I knew, then...”

“It's alright, Jinbe-sama. You didn't know and I know how important it is for our people.” Shirahoshi reassured the smaller fishman. “Hopefully we will find someone that I can fall in love with and marry, to help my people.” A warm radiant smile appeared on her face.

“Shirahoshi-sama...thank you...” Jinbe lowered his head at her kindness.

“Ahh...my dear Shirahoshi-chan...if I wasn't already a taken man, I would have been honored to be your Prince Charming.” Sanji commented. “Alas, I have someone waiting for me at home.”

“Oh, you do!? That's wonderful, Sanji-sama! She must be a wonderful person!” Shirahoshi smiled at him. Sanji bit down on the cigarette in his mouth to avoid going full Love Mode. His restraint was almost fading, but one look over at Robin who gave him a 'warning' smile stopped him from doing so.

“Y-yes, she is. Pudding is my one true love.” He proclaimed and his lips turned to a warm smile as he thought about her.

“Hahahaha, that's good news to hear, Sanji. I hope we get invited to the wedding.” Jinbe laughed.

“Of course...I wouldn't want you guys to miss it.” He told him with a smile.

“Shi shishishi! Sanji getting married is a little weird...” Luffy commented as Sanji gave him a little knock on the head with his leg.

“Shut up! It's not weird!” Luffy just laughed.

Robin watched the interaction with a smile. Then, she got an idea or at least wanted to see how one would respond and looked up to Shirahoshi.

“Shirahoshi-chan?”

“Hm? Yes!?” She turned to looked down at the Straw Hat archaeologist.

“Why not ask Luffy if he could marry you?” Everyone froze and turned silent as they looked at Robin.

“Marry...Luffy-sama...” Shirahoshi repeated and took a glance down at Luffy who was sitting in front of her. Suddenly, her face turned completely red and before she knew it, she felt her entire body get flustered. “EEEEEEEEEEEHHHHHHHHHHHHH!? M-M-M-M-MARRY LUFFY-SAMA!?!?!” She rose up from the bed, causing the bed to shift up and down like waves, putting her hands on the side of her face. “I.I.I.I.I....ME MARRYING LUFFY-SAMA...I...THAT',S...UMMM...I W-W-W-WOULDN'T MIND...BUT...WAIT NO...I.......UWAAAHHHH!”

Robin chuckled at her innocent reaction, like a school girl who just had her crush be revealed. Jinbe sweat dropped at what was happening, but when he thought about it, it wasn't a terrible idea. Who else would be perfect to help with the relations with Fishmen and humans. He may not be a Prince per say, heck he was the Pirate King, but they could make an exception. In fact, it might he might be the best choice for Shirahoshi. Both he and Shirahoshi knew Luffy personally so they could trust him. It didn't sound quite far fetched of an idea.

Sanji gritted his teeth at the idea, feeling jealousy boil up in his body, but secretly took out a picture of Pudding to help him calm down. He still had some work to do. Luffy on the other hand had no idea what was going on, but he did hear the word marriage and his name in the same sentence.

“How about, Luffy?” Robin asked as everyone looked over to him in anticipation of his answer. Shirahoshi hid her face with her hands peeked through her fingers at Luffy, her heart beating loudly against her chest. “Would you like to marry, Shirahoshi?”

Luffy looked over at Robin and with a straight face said. “Sorry, I don't want to get married to Shirahoshi.” He bluntly said. Everyone let go of the air they were holding. Jinbe felt some of his hope fall, but figured it was going to be a long shot. Sanji was a bit relieved to hear Luffy's response, but he knew he still had to work on his jealousy.

Shirahoshi felt deflated at the rejection, feeling her heart break a bit. She had a tiny sliver of hope that Luffy might have accepted, but she figured, like Jinbe, that he would reject it as well. It did hurt a bit as she did have a crush on him. Something she didn't want anyone to know, but now she knew how Luffy felt, which likely will help her move on from her crush...at least she hoped it did.

Robin simply looked at Luffy and watched him go back to eating, seeing nothing in his response or demeanor that told her he was likely lying. 'So...it's not Shirahoshi...' She knew this might get bothersome to Luffy if she kept at it, but her curiosity got the better of her, after that slight hesitation in his response back on the ship a while back.

“Well, in any case, I'm sure one day we will find someone that can help connect our races together.” Jinbe confidently said as everyone gave him a smile at his tenacity for peace between the two races.

“Yes, Jinbe-sama!”

“Shi shishishishi!”

~OP~

“Sugoi!!!! So much food!!” Luffy exclaimed loudly as he and the others entered the Grand Hall to see so much food was prepared for Luffy and the others. Neptune approached them, still bandaged up and welcomed his honored guests.

“Welcome! Please enjoy our hospitality to your hearts content! We thank you for you help once again and we like to welcome you back, Luffy-kun!” He told them with a bright smile. Shirahoshi, Fukaboshi and Lady Adrina all went to stand by Neptune's side and lowered their heads in gratitude.

“Thank you for everything!!” They all said as the Straw Hats smiled back at them.

“Shi shishishi! Yosh! Let's eat!!!” Luffy declared as the party began. Koby and Hibari eventually came as well after completing their Marine duties and joined in on the celebration.

At some point during the feast, Shirahoshi's other two brothers arrived from their own journeys to partake in the feast. Of course not before being reassured that their father and siblings were okay and getting the biggest shock of their lives with Luffy's return.

The party went on as Luffy was getting bigger and bigger with all the food that he was consuming as everyone laughed and enjoyed the festivities. As the party was calming down a bit, Luffy looked over at Jinbe and smiled at him.

“Jinbe!” The whale shark fishman turned to his captain, a smile on his face.

“Yes, Luffy-kun?” Luffy chuckled.

“I'm glad you're doing well! Can't wait for us to go out and find the others.” Jinbe was stunned by his words and lowered the mug of beer he had in his hands.

“Luffy-kun...I...I don't if...” He hesitated. As much as he wanted to go with them, he also had his duties as a diplomat. It wasn't something he could just up and leave.

“You can't come?” He asked his former helmsman as Sanji and Robin watched along, waiting to see how this turns out.

“I want to Luffy-kun...but...after what happened...I can't just...”

“What are you saying, Jinbe?” It was Neptune who spoke as he approached them. “You are more than welcomed to return to sailing with your crew.”

“Huh? But...”

“It's true you have your duties as a diplomat, but as your King, I order you to go on vacation and sail with Luffy-kun and the others.” He told him.

“Neptune-sama...” Jinbe looked over at the other members of the royal family and then at his former crew mates. Each one of them giving him a warm smile. Jinbe felt his emotions come out again as tears began coming out.

“Jinbe-sama, please enjoy your vacation!” Shirahoshi smiled warmly which was enough for the tears to stream down. He lowered himself to the ground and touched his forehead to the floor.

“Thank you!” Everyone smiled warmly at him as Luffy was ecstatic that another member of his crew was going to be journeying with him once again.

“Shi shishishi! Let's go on more adventures, Jinbe!!”

Jinbe lifted himself and turned to Luffy with the biggest smile he ever had in a long time. “Yes, Captain!!”

END

Chapter Text

Chapter 13: Arrival on Sabaody

“Do you really have to go, Luffy-sama?” Shirahoshi sadly asked Luffy. He looked up at her with a smile.

“Sorry, Shirahoshi. I have to go find the rest of my crew. Ah, but don't worry, I didn't forget our promise! I'll make sure to come back with everyone and we'll go on that walk, okay!” Luffy told her, remembering the promise he and his crew made with her seven years ago. They were at the docks in the upper level of Fishman Island. Everyone was preparing to set off, stocking Koby's large vessel with supplies. Sanji and Robin were with Luffy, as the three of them were waiting for Jinbe to arrive. Coby and Hibari were on the ship, directing everyone where to put the supplies. Shirahoshi looked down at the three Strawhats with her top half of her body above water, right next to Koby's ship.

“Yes!!! I'll be waiting!” She smiled brightly, a small blush on her cheeks.

“It's a shame we couldn't see Hatchi and Keimi.” Sanji said.

“Eh, but there isn't much we can do...after all a honeymoon is important.” Robin giggled. When they heard Hatchi and Keimi got married and were currently on their honeymoon, they were definitely shocked. Luffy wasn't exactly sure what a honeymoon was, but Robin gave a quick and easy explanation that it was an adventure married people went on.

Luffy was excited at the prospect of a new adventure, but gave an expression of dislike at the marriage part. Still, an adventure was an adventure, regardless of what they were called. Just thinking about adventures made Luffy excited.

“Shi shishishi! I'm sure we'll see them again!” Luffy was being the optimist as always.

“Yeah.” Sanji agreed.

A bag hit the ground behind them and Luffy's face lit up when Jinbe finally arrived at the docks. “Jinbe!” The large whale shark smiled seeing his former crew.

“Sorry for the wait.” He told them. “Didn't know what to bring so I figured I travel light.” He looked down at the bag that looked small to him, but compared to the straw hat trio, it was fairly large.

“That's light?” Sanji questioned.

“Hehehe, for Jinbe it is.”

“Shi shishishishi, I'm glad to have you back Jinbe! Let's go find the rest of our crew!” Luffy grinned widely up at him.

“Ah!” The fishman nodded. “Do you know what our next destination is?”

“Nope.”

“Of course, hahaha...well, I'm sure Coby-kun will know.” Jinbe just smiled.

“If I remember correctly, I believe our destination was Sabaody. Coby had intel that Zoro was spotted last there.” Robin answered.

“Tch, I vote we skip him.” Sanji muttered.

“Oh, that's right! We gotta go see Zoro! I wonder what he's been up to.” Luffy grinned widely.

“Knowing him, getting drunk and lost. Probably being lazy.” Sanji smirked slightly.

“Hahahaha, I haven't seen Zoro-kun in quite a while. Will be great to catch up with him.” Jinbe chuckled.

“I hope you all have a safe journey!” Shirahoshi smiled down at them.

“Of course!” Luffy raised his fist, sticking his pinky finger out. Shirahoshi smiled widely and lowered her pinky finger down to touch his. Luffy swung his finger to wrap around her larger one as they both grinned at each other while the others smiled.

~OP~

“Okay, we're ready to set sail!” After a while, Coby announced that they finished restocking and were ready to set sail.

“Yahooooo!” Luffy cheered and stretched his arm to get up on the ship.

“O-Oi! Be discreet!” Hibari scolded him, but he simply just chuckled.

“My bad, Shi shishishi.” She could only sigh. Coby chuckled softly as the other three members of the Straw Hats started heading up the ramp onto the ship.

“Been a long time I got on a ship that wasn't intended for something diplomatic.” Jinbe commented as he stepped onto the deck.

“Hehehe, though without your efforts, the relations between Fishmen and Humans wouldn't be as strong as it is now.” Robin applauded Jinbe's efforts and how well his dream was becoming fruition.

“Thanks, Robin. Though, there is still a lot of work to do...as we just went through.”

“It was always going to be difficult, but the progress you've done is showing.” Sanji smiled. “Any progress is good progress.”

“You're right, thank you.” Luffy watched his crew board the ship, overhearing their conversation.

“I don't know what you guys are talking about, but I'm happy for ya, Jinbe!” He grinned.

“Hahaha, thank you, Captain!”

The trio boarded the ship and walked onto the deck. Marine grunts were finishing up their tasks as Hibari commanded them. Coby greeted the strawhats.

“So, we'll be heading straight to Sabaody. According to out intel, they lost track of Zoro-san, but there was no indication he left yet.” Sanji snorted at that.

“That moss head probably got lost somewhere. I say we forget him and head somewhere else.” Luffy snickered.

“Shishishi, Zoro is still getting lost.”

“Like that was ever gonna change.” Sanji chuckled to himself. While he hadn't seen Zoro in quite a while, he knew he would never lose that incredible skill of always getting lost.

“Well, we might as well check anyway.” Robin smiled.

“Ah, it's been a while since I've been there myself, even though I always sailed by it.” Jinbe agreed.

“Shishishi! Then let's go! I can't wait to see Zoro again! Oh, and Rayleigh too!” Luffy smiled to himself. However, he was unaware of the solemn expressions showcased on his crew's face and Cobys as well.

“R-Right. Then shall we go.” Luffy nodded at Koby's suggestion.

“Yosh! Let's go!!” Luffy laughed and pumped his fist. He ran to the front of the ship to get ready to set sail as his crew watched him.

“Should we tell him?” Coby asked his crew.

“I'm just not sure how Luffy would react.” Robin answered.

“I'm sure he will be fine. He's been through a lot. It's really just going to be a shock because of the amount of time he's been missing...” Jinbe thought back to the moment his captain was at his lowest point.

“Yeah...whether it's from us or someone else...he will find out...” Sanji lit up a cigarette. “Might as well be us.”

“The news probably would be easier to take if we told him.” Jinbe agreed.

“yes.” Robin nodded.

Coby observed silently, staring at Luffy's back. “Luffy-san...”

~OP~

While the decision to tell Luffy was decided among them, it was still difficult to say. They did try, but every time they had a chance, Luffy would get excited by something he saw. Whether it be a piece of the former red line protruding out of the sea, or an island that they passed by. An island that was not there during his initial journey. The fall of the sea levels brought old land that was submerged back to the surface. The destruction of the red line caused large gaping holes all around the planet that allowed the water to flow down after they rose for a short period of time. After seven years, a lot of the water managed to flow down the gaping voids and decrease the sea levels down, allowing those submerged lands to come back.

Robin explained this to Luffy as simply as she could. Luffy didn't quite understand, but he did understand one part. His actions allowed new islands, new land and brand new adventures to be opened up for him to explore. The prospect of such things made him giddy with excitement.

Despite how much he wanted to explore those lands, he was rejected or managed to hold down his excitement. The chance to explore these new islands once he had his entire crew together was something he was excited for. It did take most of his will power to hold off though.

The trio of Strawhats eventually were not able to find the time to tell him the news they wanted. They hoped they would be able to find time before someone else told him, but then, the sight of the large trees that made up Sabaody was getting closer.

“There it is!” Luffy exclaimed loudly. “I see Sabaody!!” Luffy cheered.

“Hey! You're too loud!” Hibari yelled at him.

“Oh right....GO FASTER!!”

“OI!!!!!” Hibari smacked him across the head jokingly.

The boat got closer and closer. Luffy looked on with amazement, but that amazement soon turned to wide eye as the closer they got, the realization came through that he was not looking at the Sabaody he remembered. The shadow of the trees overtook the entire ship. Luffy's eyes widened in shock. The tree was so much taller than he remembered. In fact it was way taller than before and he couldn't believe it.

“W-What!? That tree is huge!!!” Robin giggled, enjoying her Captain's reaction.

“Ee. They are definitely bigger than you remembered.” Luffy looked up and couldn't believe how tall the tree now was. He barely could see the light of the sun shine through the leaves of the giant trees. They were almost as big as the Giant Tree at Elbaph.

“R-Robin! Why are they suddenly so big!?” Luffy asked, earning a giggle from her.

“Actually, they didn't get bigger.” Luffy turned his head to look at her.

“Huh?”

“Remember when we talked about how the new islands you saw were islands that rose up because the water levels went down?” Sanji asked him. Luffy tilted his head slightly before nodding. “It wasn't just new islands that came up. Old islands also had land below in the ocean that came up as well. So, old islands became bigger and...” He paused to look up at the trees. “The water going down also caused things like this. The tall trees of Sabaody became taller because of that as well.”

“R-Really!? S-Sugoi!!” Luffy became stunned and looked back up at the tree.

“Yep. Even the people who called Sabaody home decided to come down to the lower levels. In fact, they made an entire new home with the trees. Homes inside trees, pathways up and across trees and even new ports. It's quite amazing.” Robin added.

“It sounds amazing! I want to see them!” Luffy exclaimed, getting ready to launch himself into the Archipelago.

“Hold on a minute!” Coby ran up to Luffy and stopped him by placing his hands on his shoulder.

“Huh!? What is it? Let me go.” Luffy grumbled.

“I know how excited you are, but we can't have you running off like that. Then we'll need to find both you and Zoro-san.” Luffy pouted.

“Admiral-san!” Coby turned to see a Marine Grunt approach him and gave him a salute. “Urgent news. Vice Admiral Tashigi has moved ahead towards Salenka Port!”

“What!?” Coby groaned and let out a sigh. “Great...see...this is why we...” Coby turned around only to find Luffy no longer there. “You're kidding me!!”

Robin and Jinbe giggled. “Don't worry, he'll be fine. Sanji went after him to make sure he doesn't cause any trouble.” Coby only sighed.

“Well, as long as someone is with him. In any case, let's head to Salenka port and catch up to Tashigi-san. Knowing her, she will not stop until she finds Zoro-san.”

~OP~

“Roronoa Zoro!!! Where are you!?” Tashigi called out as she arrived at the port. She began to approach every single person who she crossed paths with, showing a picture of Zoro to everyone. No one gave her answer she wanted and it frustrated her.

“V-Vice Admiral...ummm...” One of the grunts that was trying their best to catch up with her called out.

“What? Did you find out where he is?” Tashigi asked.

“Umm...well no...but...I was just curious why you keep looking for him.” Tashigi sighed.

“I need to find him. If I don't then, I can not accomplish my goal.” She answered. “I will not let him stand in my way of that...not again.”

“B-But...he's the world's greatest swordsman...don't you remember what he did during the war.”

“Like I care about that.”

“EEEEHHHH!?”

“He's an idiot...always gets lost...thinks hes all that and doesn't take me seriously...I will make sure I don't leave here without him giving me what I want. Even if it means I have to challenge him.” She furrowed her eyebrows and gave a look of determination that was inspiring for the young grunt.

“Vice Admiral-san...”

Feeling a bit embarrassed, she cleared her throat and felt her cheeks get red slightly. She fixed her glasses before turning away from the grunt. “I-In any case, I need to find him before we lose him again. If no one here knows about him, then we move on to the next grove! Understand!”

“Yes, Ma'am!”

~OP~

“Yahooooooo!!!!” Luffy cheered as he was flying in the air. Sanji followed right behind him, sky walking while matching his speed. Luffy grabbed a hold of one of the large branches of a tree and hung there. Sanji stopped next to him, kicking his feet up to maintain his altitude. “Yo, Sanji. Do you know where we're going?”

“Why the hell would I know? I don't know where that Moss head is.” Sanji grumbled.

“Hmmm...oh what about that bar...you know where Rayleigh used to hang out...” Sanji furrowed his brows and sighed.

“Listen, Luffy...there is something you should know.”

“Hmm?”

“THERE SHE IS!!!!” Before Sanji could speak, a loud booming voice was heard from nearby. They turned their head in the direction and suddenly saw an explosion.

“Huh? What's that? Sounds exciting!!” Luffy grinned. Before Sanji could say anything, Luffy let go of the branch and stretched his arm out to another branch close by and swung himself across to there the commotion was.

“Oi, Luffy...tch...” Sanji groaned and followed after him.

“Get back here!” Another man yelled. Luffy swung closer and then used the momentum to launch himself up in the air. By doing so, he had a wider view of the situation below. There he saw a large group of men chasing after someone. Luffy narrowed his eyes to take a closer look at who it was and after his eyes refocused, they widened. Orange hair.

“Is that...” Something in Luffy's chest bloomed weakly at the sight of long flowing orange hair. He didn't quite understand what it was, but he realized he didn't have time to worry about it. If that was who he thought it was, he needed to help quickly.

“Oi Luffy...” He heard Sanji call after him, but he ignored him as he started to dive bomb towards the mob. “Wait! I forgot how much of an handful he is. Hmm?” He looked down to see where he was going and noticed the mob going after one single person. He immediately saw the orange hair and the fact the person was a female and instantly understood. He dived down as well.

The girl panted heavily as she tried moving as fast as her legs could. She was getting tired and her muscles were screaming in pain. However, she needed to keep going. Pressed against her chest was a video den den mushi. She looked back to see the mob still after her. 'Damn it...why did this happen to me!?' She tried running a bit faster, but she was getting exhausted.

“We can't let her get away! Capture her!” She heard behind her and panic started setting in. She heard their angry yells getting closer and knew it was only a matter of time before they caught her.

“We almost have her!”

“Get back here!”

“I got her!” One of the men almost made it to her, reaching his hand out to grab at her hair before feeling something above dived right into his back. He crashed straight down to the ground, causing everyone to stop at the impact. The girl let out a small scream and fell to the ground from the impact.

“W-What the...?” She wondered what was going on and looked up to see a cloud of dust. Then heard the sounds of groans and screams of pain. Her eyes widened when she saw some of the men chasing her flying upward and falling back down. She didn't know what was going on, but came to the quick conclusion that someone was beating the crap out of the men chasing her.

Once the dust settled, she saw all the man scattered around beaten to a pulp. She blinked in surprise at how efficiently her saviors were able to dispose of the mob. She overheard one of them speak as he kicked one of them on the ground in what looked like annoyance. “That's what you idiots get for trying to attack a lady.”

She blinked in confusion at the two and jumped slightly when she noticed one of them walking towards her. He wore a marine shirt, long hair tied in a ponytail and a stubble around his face.

Luffy walked up to her, his heart slightly racing and chest beating. He found this feeling strange and it surprised him that he didn't feel this way when he saw his other crew members. While it wasn't a super strong feeling, it still left an impression on him. When he approached the orange haired girl, he looked down and suddenly, the feeling went away. “Wait...you're not...”

“W-Who are you!?” The orange haired girl asked. “Ah, wait, I mean thanks for the help, but I could have dealt with them....who are you!?” She demanded an answer from Luffy. Sanji walked over and peeked over Luffy's shoulder and noticed the girls face for the first time.

She had freckles and wore glasses. Her orange haired flowed down to about waist length, being sprawled around on the grass. She looked to be in her older teens or early 20's, but everything about her had an uncanny resemblance to a former crew mate of theirs.

“Oi, Sanji...who is this?” Luffy suddenly asked, pointing his thumb at her.

“Like hell I would know!” Sanji exclaimed.

“Ehhh, but she looks like Nami.” Luffy whined.

“N-Nami! Wait! You guys know Cat Burglar Nami!!!” Both men looked back at her in surprise.

“Huh? You know Nami?” Luffy asked, a small feeling of excitement rising within him.

“I...um...well...I never met her anything but...I...wait...why should I tell you anything!? Who are you two!?” The woman rose to her feet to ask them again.

“Oh I'm Monk-” Sanji covered his mouth before blurting out his identity.

“Monk?”

“Oh, don't mind him, mademoiselle.” Sanji smiled at her. He then turned to Luffy to whisper in his ear. “...don't forget what Coby said...”

Luffy's eyes widened. “Oh right....I'm...who am I again?” Sanji let out a sigh.

“Just forget it. This guy here is just a marine, don't mind him. I'm Sanji.” Sanji gave a small bow.

“Sanji? Wait...the Sanji!? A member of the Straw Hats!!??” The girl exclaimed in excitement.

“Oh, you know me?” Sanji asked as Luffy pouted.

“I'm the captain...” He muttered softly, earning a small kick to his shin which he let out a small groan of pain as Sanji infused some of his conqueror's haki into it.

“Like I said, don't mind him. He escorting me as a special service.” Sanji told her. We were on our way to...um...Shakky-chan's bar when we saw that mob of gross men chasing after you.” Sanji explained to her.

“Oh wow. I was saved by a former crew mate of Nami. This is amazing!” The girl's excitement was clearly visible with the little dance she was performing. “Oh, um...nice to meet you! My name is Sami, I'm Nami's number one fan!” She proudly stated while taking out a wallet from her pockets and showcased all the pictures and shots of Nami she collected over the years.

“O-Oh..I see...” Sanji was a bit shocked by how much the girl liked Nami. “Then again, I get how you feel. Nami-san is the greatest!” He proclaimed himself.

“Right!?” She was so excited at the fateful meeting of someone who shared her love for the Orange Haired Navigator that helped Luffy become the new Pirate King. “I always wanted to meet her and tell her how amazing she is!” She blushed and clasped her hands together at the thought of ever meeting her role model.

Luffy could only smile, glad to see someone saw how great Nami was like he and the rest of his crew did.

“Hahaha, well, if I ever see her again, I'll see if she'll like to come by Sabaody and you can meet her. I'm sure she'll love to meet you.” At this, the girl stared blankly at Sanji before squealing and slowly falling back. Sanji quickly went to catch her before she hit the ground. “Oi, you alright!?”

“I-I-I-I'm f-f-fine...t-t-this is just too much...I met a former crew mate and he said I can one day meet her...I'm gonna die...” Sanji only chuckled nervously at her over exaggeration.

“Hey, don't die! You still gotta meet Nami.” Luffy exclaimed to her as if he thought she was serious.

“She's not actually gonna die, you know.” Sanji sweat dropped at Luffy's over reaction.

~OP~

Some time passed and Sami was able to regain her composure. “So, why were those brutes after a lovely lady like you?” Sanji asked.

“Oh, right. The truth is, I'm a journalist and I heard one of the crew mates of the new Pirate King was around. Was kind of hopping to see them and get an interview.” Both Sanji and Luffy looked at each other. Sanji then smirked.

“I see. So you heard of my arrival and wanted to interview me. I get it. We can definitely sit down and talk about anything you want Sami-swan.” Sanji proclaimed with pride.

“Oh...um...actually...I'm sorry...it wasn't you...it was the crew mate with the green hair and three swords, Roronoa Zoro.” Sanji felt his veins pop and some even twitch as the image of the Green haired swordsman showed up in his head.

“O-Oh...I-I see...hahaha...” Sanji chuckled nervously. 'DAMN YOU MARIMO!!!'

“Shi shishishi! So, Zoro is here!” Luffy exclaimed excitedly.

“Yep! I heard through my sources that he was spotted around here so I wanted to find him. However, he wasn't here, but I did see some strange activity going around and wanted to take a look. Saw some shady men doing some shady things with weapons and took a picture...but I forgot my den den mushi is an old model and it made a noise that alerted everyone. Then...well...you guys showed up.” Sami explained what happened.

“Hmm...I see...well good thing we saw you. We are actually trying to find him too. We figured we'd try Shakky-chan's bar and see if she knows anything about him. If you want, you can come with us.” Sanji offered.

“yeah, it'll be fun!” Luffy exclaimed with a wide grin, agreeing with the suggestion.

“Really!? Of course. This is also the perfect time to ask you some questions too, Sanji-san!” Sami exclaimed in excitement.

“Hahaha, perfect! I'll make sure you get a much better interview than that shit head swordsman.” Sanji proudly told her.

“R-Right...” Sami chuckled. She then looked over at Luffy who turned to her. “This has been bothering...but...don't I know you from somewhere?”

“Me? I'm...Lucy...yeah Lucy!” Luffy paused for a moment after almost telling her his real name, before going with his old name that he used in Dressrossa.

“L...ucy...hmmm. Well, it's nice to meet you, Lucy!” Sami gave him a nod.

“Shi shishi!”

“Just out of curiosity, Sami-swan, do you know where Shakky-chan opened up her new bar?” Sanji asked.

“Oh, yeah! Let me show you the way!” Sami exclaimed happily and the trio started making their way to Shakky's bar.

~OP~

“You...” Tashigi gritted her teeth as she stared down at a man who wielded a sword in her direction. The man in front of her had short black hair and a large scar across his forehead. He glared directly at Tashigi and smirked.

“Seems I finally caught myself a beauty. That sword of yours, I want it. Be a nice little girl and give it to me.” Tashigi glared at him

“Like hell I will. You scum...how could someone like you hold one of the Ryo Wazamono blades.” She growled at him. The sword he pointed at her was one of the skillful Grade Swords. Only about 40 of them existed since the war seven years ago and the idea that a bandit like this had one, made Tashigi's blood boil.

“Please, taking this from that old man was as simple as taking candy from a baby. He was a pathetic fool who didn't know the true value of this blade. The Kyuuryuu. However, I also know that this isn't a strong enough blade for the likes of me. Yours however is. One of the Great Grade Swords, the Hantei.” Tashigi hated that smirk on his face.

Her fellow marine soldiers were taken out by him quickly the moment he appeared and before she knew, her entire squad was down and out. She drew her sword, the Hantei, and pointed it towards him. “Don't underestimate just because I'm a woman.”

“Now, why would I do that? Your a vice admiral. I would never underestimate someone involved int hat war seven years ago. However, we both know who will win here. So, I'll warn you again. Give me the blade or I'll have to cut you down.” He looked smugly at her and she got more infuriated with his cocky attitude.

“Don't say you didn't ask for it!” Tashigi got into her stance and waited for the bandit to make the first movie. The cloak he wore fluttered in the wind as the two stared each other down.

“Heh, I guess you really do want to die. Fine, I'll kill you and take that sword myself. Prepare to die, Vice Admiral.” The swordsman got into his stance as well and then in the blink of an eye, the two clashed with their blades. The sound of metal contacting metal was heard as the two battled with one another.

Tashigi could feel the murderous intent coming from the man. It made her disgusted that one of the Grade Swords was with a man like this. However, it was also clear to her that he was not as skilled as he claimed to be. After fighting Zoro countless times for the last seven years, he was nothing compared to him.

The bandit started feeling agitated. No attack of his was connecting. Almost as if she was able to see his every move before he makes it. He couldn't break through her defenses and it was starting to piss him off. 'Damn it...how am I losing to this woman! I knew it. The grade of the blade really does matter. This isn't her abilities, its the swords!' He continued to make countless of excuses, but it was clear as day he was not breaking through.

Tashigi waited for her opportunity to strike. She knew this man had no chance of beating her. So, she wanted to embarrass him as much as she could. Blocking every swing of the sword, evading countless swings and dodging attacks that caused him to trip as she glared at the man.

He gritted his teeth in anger. 'No! I refuse to lose to this weakling! I will win!' He told himself. He smirked and decided to go with some underhanded tactics. He stepped back. And created some space between them.

“Giving up?” Tashigi asked, which pissed him off even more.

“Please...I don't give up. Besides, acting tough for a woman. Without that sword, you'd be nothing.” Tashigi frowned. Years ago, that statement would have gotten her really angry. However, she realized getting angry over a weak attempt at riling her up was foolish. All she needed to do was beat him and she decided that she had her fun and was going to do just that.

“What a weak excuse, you coward.” She retorted back. A vein bulged at her comment.

“Fine...suit yourself.” He charged forward. Tashigi awaited his move, only to be caught by surprise when the bandit in one fluid motion, dug into the ground and threw dirt in her eyes. Tashigi gasped at the underhanded tactic and lost her concentration.

'This bastard...' She thought.

“Hahahaha! Now you're mine!” He yelled, getting ready to deal a finishing blow.

“Such a shame...was enjoying myself...”

Before the bandit could strike, an attack came from the left, causing him to stop his attack and avoid the wind blade attack. The bandit backed away as Tashigi stumbled slightly before finding her footing.

“What the hell!? Who did that?” The bandit yelled as he turned in the direction the wind blade attack came from. Tashigi did the same and her eyes widened.

“A battle of swords and you use a cheap trick like that? Pathetic.” The man sitting on top of a building sighed before taking a drink from the Sake bottle he held in his hands. A black blade rested on his shoulder as he looked down at the two. His one eye focused on the field of play.

“You!” Tashigi screamed out. The new individual let out a satisfied gasp after filling his body with the drink. He then looked over at Tashigi.

“Oi, you got pretty good. Looks like you've been busy.” Tashigi growled at him. What made her angrier was the fact that she could not sense his presence at all with her observation haki.

“Huh? Who the hell are you!?” The bandit demanded the man on the roof to respond.

“Me? Well, I'm just a bored swordsman who thought he found some entertainment. Too bad it had a poor swordsman like yourself involved.” The man replied with a devilish smirk.

“You...!” The man growled in anger.

“I knew you were here! I've come to fight you and take those swords from you, Roronoa Zoro!” The green haired swordsman, also known to the world as the new Greatest Swordsman in the World, looked over at her with his one eye and smirked at the guts she showed.

He had his chest bare, showing the many scars he had gotten from his many battles, including a new one on the left side of his chest that he got from his fight with DraculeMihawk seven years ago. While not as long as the first wound he got from the former World's Greatest Swordsman, it was still noticeable and both scars complimented each other. To him, it showcased the progress of his encounters with Mihawk. He wore long dark pants and boots but had a chain that was attached around the waist of his pants, just below his trademark green haramaki. Three sheaths were around his waist, with two of the swords perfectly inside them. The third sword, his most prized sword, the Wado Ichimonji rested on his shoulders, now becoming a full black blade and has been one since he made it into one during his last fight with Mihawk.

He still wore his three gold earrings on his left earlobe and the dark green bandanna was tied around his left shoulder as usual. On his lap was a shirt that he took off prior to his nap on the roof of the building. Soaked from the dip in the water he took a while ago.

“Take these swords? Still following that dream of yours?” He told her with a smirk as that angered Tashigi.

“You know damn well I am!” She roared back.

“Yeah, yeah...but shouldn't you take his sword first.” He pointed to the bandit was glared at the two of them for ignoring him. “Stop playing around and deal with this fool.”

“What did you say!?” The bandit yelled. “I don't care who you are! I'll kill you just like I'm gonna kill her!”

“...I see...” Zoro muttered.

“You...how dare you underestimate! You have no idea who I am! I am going to make my name known to the even the Gods! I will not be underestimated by a couple of weaklings! I had enough!” He turned towards Tashigi. “I'll kill you first, take your sword and kill him next! So die!!” He charged at Tashigi. Tashigi turned to him and before he could even move his sword for an attack, he was struck down by Tashigi as blood splattered from the wounds of the gash she inflicted on his chest. While not deep enough to kill, the attack was more than enough to knock the man out instantly.

Zoro watched as the bandit collapsed to the floor. He sighed. “After all that...shame, thought it would be more entertaining...” Zoro commented taking another drink.

Tashigi quickly turned to face him. She then pointed her sword at him. “I challenge you, Roronoa Zoro!” She declared towards him.

Zoro stared back at her before sighing. “No thanks. Not interested right now.”

“What!? Why!? Why are you running!?” She yelled.

“I'm not running. I just don't want to fight you right now. I have...other business to attend...” He told her and then stood up.

“What!?” She felt her frustration grow. “You...you always reject my challenged and here you are, running away again...stop running from me, Roronoa Zoro!” Zoro had his back to her. He paused without moving or saying a word. Then, he let out a long sigh.

“Fine...tomorrow...Grove 24...Noon...don't be late...or get lost...” He told her before hopping away.

“What? Hey, wait!” Tashigi called after him, but he was now long gone. “Damn it...Roronoa Zoro...tomorrow...I end this...I will get those graded swords from you...mark my words...”

~OP~

The small sound of humming rang in the open lounge of Shakky's Rip Off bar. A woman with shoulder length black hair was the source of the humming. After seven years, signs of white began discoloring her beautiful black hair. She did not mind. After so long, she no longer began to care about her appearance.

She placed the now clean mug down with the other mugs lined up at the bar. She then picked up another and began cleaning it as well. In front of her were many shelves of different alcohols that she plan to serve to her patrons later that night. The silence in the bar was almost horrifying to her. It reminded her how much she enjoyed the sound of laughter, music and drunks brought peace of mind to her. She didn't always feel that way, but in the past few years, she hated the afternoons and was always eager for the nights.

The smell of the wood and alcohol helped calm her mind down. She paused in her cleaning to free one of her hands and then took a drag of her cigarette. The smell and action gave her some peace of mind as her thoughts ran through her mind. She then placed the cigarette back onto her red lips and started cleaning the mug once again.

Suddenly, the barn doors of her bar was pushed open, signaling someone arrived to her bar. Without turning around, she remained in her spot, continuing to clean the mug in her hands. She then spoke to the patrons that came a bit too early. “Sorry, but the bar is closed for another hour. Come back then, okay?” She said with a cigarette in her mouth.

“Huuuh!? But I thought I could always come here to hear any scoops you get?” Shakky stopped cleaning at the familiar voice and turned to see Sami at the door.

“Oh, Sami! Good to see you! My how much you've grown since the last time I saw you.” Shakky smiled at her.

“Huh? You saw me last week!?” She looked at her in shock.

“Oh, has it been a week? My, feels like forever.” Shakky chuckled.

“Hehehe, right...oh I have some guests who want to see you!” She told her.

“Oh?”

“It's been a while, Shakky-chan.” Shakky looked behind Sami and saw Sanji standing at the door with a soft smile on his face.

“Oh my, this is a surprise. It sure has been a while. It's rare for one of Monkey-chan's crew mates to show up here. Well, other than the green haired one.” She chuckled. “Please come in. You are always welcome.”

“Hahaha, thanks.” Sanji thanked her.

Oh and this is Lu...” Before Sami could continue, Luffy pushed Sanji slightly out of the way to greet Shakky.

“Hey! It's the bar lady! It's been a while!” Luffy grinned at her. Shakky looked over at him and blinked. The way he spoke made her think they were acquainted before, but she couldn't really remember who this was. There was a sense of familiarity, but she wasn't sure from where.

“Oh, hello. Do we...know each other?” She asked tilting her head slightly.

“Shi shishishi! Yeah we do, I'm...ummm...wait...” Luffy looked over to Sanji. Sanji pondered about it and eventually sighed.

“Well, I guess there's no point in hiding it. Ah well before that, Sami-san?” Sami looked over at him.

“Hm?”

“Your a journalist with integrity, right?” Sanji asked her.

“Integre-what?” Luffy asked, confused why Sanji was suddenly asking the orange haired girl something.

“Huh? I mean...yeah...why?” Sami tilted her head.

“Well, can you keep this next part off the record...it's kind of important...at least until...at a later time...can you?” Sanji asked her.

“Umm, yeah sure...but why?” She asked.

“Alright, go for it.” Sanji put a hand on Luffy's shoulder to give the go ahead.

“Yosh! Bar lady!!! It's me Luffy!!! Shi shishishi!” Shakky's eyes widened as the mug in her hand fell to the floor. Sami looked over at the man in the marine outfit and screamed in complete shock as her eyes bulged out and mouth flew wide open at the reveal.

“WHAAAAAAATTTTTTTTT!!!!!?????”

“M-Monkey...chan...no...that's impossible...how are you...” Shakky was stunned. She couldn't believe it.

“Shi shishishi! I'm not sure either, but, I'm back and getting my crew back!” Luffy exclaimed happily. Shakky felt her lips quiver and was almost at a breaking point to let tears flow. “Oh, by the way, where is Rayleigh!?” The silence that proceeded was deafening. Luffy looked around and noticed how the mood of the entire group completely switched. Shakky couldn't hold it in and the tears began flowing. Luffy saw this and started to panic. “Huh? W-Wait...why are you crying? W-What's wrong?” Luffy asked her.

Shakky couldn't reply as the tears flowed and she had to cover her mouth to stop the whimpers escaping. She thought she had moved on, but seeing him alive. Him of all people, brought it all back. It wasn't his fault. It never was, but all the bottled up emotions she felt just all came loose.

Sanji bit the cigarette he had in his mouth in half. He knew he forgot something. “Damn...I'm sorry, Shakky-chan...I forgot to tell him...”

“H-Huh? Tell me what?” There was this terrible sinking feeling in the pit of Luffy's stomach. Something was wrong and he did not like the mood in the room.

“I-It's okay....I...it's not your fault...” Shakky finally spoke. “I...I thought I could handle it, but hearing Monkey-chan is back...” Sami frowned and looked away in sadness.

“Umm...w-what's going on? Where is Rayleigh?” Shakky took some deep breaths before going to wipe some of the tears flowing down her cheeks.

“I'm sorry...Monkey-chan...but...3 years ago....Ray-san...

*Pause

...died...”

END