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Chapter Text

Chapter 1: Oops

Luffy watched Kaidou fall into the pit of lava beneath Onigashima. Finally, finally he had beaten the dragon, the Emperor of the Beasts. Momo’s country could finally breathe a sigh of relief. The factories that polluted the water, the air and the land could finally recover. It was the right thing to do.

Luffy took a deep breath before releasing it. This new form he had found felt wonderful. Yes he was exhausted after such a long battle but it was worth it. Ace would’ve had so much fun. He thought absently. Ace would be so happy that Wano was free and that Tama could eat tasty food without worry. Luffy felt his heart thump faster in his chest at those thoughts. His big brother was his one failure that would forever haunt him. Never again did he want to lose those he loved. Lifting his hands up to look at them before noticing how his clothes had changed to white. Luffy finally took in everything that had changed about himself. He wondered what Ace would think about his new powers. His powers that had finally awakened. Had Shanks known he could do this? The man that inspired him greatly, had he known what his powers could do or what he could achieve with them? Laughter began to bubble up his throat at these thought. No. The answer had to be no, because even after eating the Gomu Gomu no Mi nobody had stated what it could do because according to the books it was only said to have rubber like abilities.

Luffy giggled again and again. His insides still felt like somebody was tickling him from the inside out. He felt as if he could fight for hours more. He knew that he should rest. That only thirty or so minutes ago his heart had stopped. He should be dead, but he wasn’t. He wanted to see his limit for this new ability. Oh, I wish Ace or Sabo were here. I’ve never fought Ace and won. He thought sadly. The grin on his face hadn’t vanished yet though. I don’t know if I could defeat Sabo in this form. It would be fun to fight my big brother. Another infinite bout of laughter hit him. Grasping his stomach, Luffy threw his head back ant that thought and just laughed when suddenly it felt as if someone was pulling him upwards but also inwards. What the hell was this feeling? His eyes closed as his heart beat funny.

Thump. Thud. Thump. Thud.

Opening his eyes, Luffy noticed the lanterns from before were getting further away from him. What- Luffy couldn’t understand why it was getting further away. The pulling sensation continued until suddenly he felt like he was falling. There was a tiny dot getting brighter and brighter.

“I can’t believe I ended up like this with somebody who came to kill my father.” Luffy blinked in confusion. That sounded like Yamato but he was with Momo.

“Oh? So you love your father?” That voice sounded…like Ace’s.

Luffy reached out towards the voice. Ace? He thought sadly.

“When we were young, he really caused me a lot of trouble.” Ace’s voice sounded happy.

“Your brother is so interesting!” Yamato laughed.

“Yeah. Isn’t he?!” He sounded proud.

The bright dot got larger. Their combined voices got even louder, Ace’s laughter especially got louder than before. The dot suddenly exploded with color. A cliff side with two people sitting on the rocks. A single boat, familiar boat sitting in the bay below the two people. The one looking upwards laughing clutching his stomach. Ace? Luffy thought. The familiar ostentatious bright orange hat with the smile and sad pins on it.

Excitement filled Luffy. Did he pass out and was now dreaming of his big brother? It wouldn’t be the first time it’s happened. He did a quick look at himself and realized that he was still in his newest gear form. Fuck it. Shaking his head he suddenly grinned broadly before he released a yell “Shishishishi AAAAACE!!!!!”

Ace looked upwards. Dark brown, almost black, eyes suddenly widening. Jaw dropping in shock. No. Freaking. Way. Were Ace’s only thoughts before suddenly a white puff of sunshine with stretchy limbs grabbed him and pulled Ace close. Face pressed against a giggling stretchy body. “L-Luffy!?” Luffy’s laughter filled the bay area.

Yamato’s jaw dropped. This is Ace’s brother? Excitement filled his body. Face turning slightly red from his excitement. He had so many questions. However watching the two brothers was so much more entertaining. Especially with Ace’s face reddening the more his brother held him close.

Chapter Text

Chapter 2: Questions

“Luffy!” Yamato yelled out. “That’s your brother?!” The young man in front of him was white haired, wearing white clothes and a white cloud over his shoulders and arms. Just who or what is Ace’s brother?

“I think so.” Ace said with uncertainty in his voice as he finally pushed himself away from Luffy being careful not to push himself off the cliff. Maybe partying on a cliff side wasn’t the smartest thing to do. His thoughts went from looking at the edge back to Luffy who was bouncing on the ground near them. The ground itself was reacting like it was made out of rubber too. “You…you are Luffy…right?”

Luffy had his arms crossed over his chest trying to figure something out. This all felt too real. Ace feels so real. Not like the dreams he had of his brother. “Uh-huh.” He said absently. “But I’m confused.” Luffy cocked his head at them.

“Huh?” Ace yelled out. “You’re confused?” He asked white Luffy. Yeah. That’s what he’s dubbing this Luffy. “I’m confused!”

“Huh?” Luffy said even more confused. Ace never got confused about things. “Why?”

“Because!” Ace yelled back. Tightening his fist he felt anger filling him. “My little brother is back home. He’s got another year before he leaves! You may share his looks but your body…” Ace felt an ache in heart. If his brother had been hurt like that. He shook his head. Luffy wasn’t stupid enough to get hurt like that. The big red X in the center of white Luffy’s chest made Ace’s heart tighten further. “Luffy would never get hurt like that. He’s not a weakling or stupid enough not to move out of the way of whatever did that to you.”

Luffy stopped bouncing. Dream Ace had never brought up the scar in conversation before. Touching his chest, Luffy could still feel the heat from Akainu’s attack from that day. The joy, the elation of rescuing Ace only to fail when his body had given out at the most inopportune moment which had forced his big brother to save him. Luffy looked up at his brother’s face, a pout already forming on Luffy’s face. Trying his best to force it down and away he pulled the hat from his back to his head to hide his sadness.

Ace’s eyes widened as he saw the hat. He had grown up watching Luffy run around with that stupid damn hat. One time a crocodile had eaten it and Luffy had beaten the animal up just because of the hat that Shanks had entrusted to his dumb little brother. This white Luffy had to be real. There was no doubt. Guilt wrecked him at his previous words.“Luffy?” Ace questioned concern appearing on his face.  “What happened…to you?”

“Shishishi.” Luffy looked up at his brother with laughter on his lips. “I failed.” He stated matter of factly. “But I won’t again.”

Ace continued to look at him with concern. His little brother didn’t look so little suddenly. Scars, beside the obvious one, littered his chest and face. His brother looked tired, exhausted even. What has Luffy brother gone through to become this strong? “Lu.” He went to walk up to him.

“You died Ace.” Luffy stated sadly causing his brother to go still. “You died in my arms after I failed to save you. I wasn’t strong enough, but I am now.” Luffy looked at his hands. “I trained for two years, as did my crew. We teamed up with Tora-o and took out Mingo’s factories.” He grinned. “We saved some kids he was testing stuff on.” Luffy thought about that a bit when Ace began to approach him. “I gave them to Smokey who promised to help them and get them back their parents!”

Ace reached out to Luffy pulling him to his body into a hug. “It really is you.”Luffy cocked his head at this comment. “I’m not dead Luffy.”

“Yes you are.” Luffy stated with a frown. “This…” Luffy pouted a bit. “This is just a dream.” He then looked at Yamato. “This…this is a first for Yamato being here in my dream. Shishishi.” He laughed as he threw his arms behind his head and leaned back onto the balls of his feet. “I must’ve passed out after defeating Kaidou!” He laugh.

“You fought Kaidou!!” Ace yelled shocked. “Wait, how?” He asked confused. He didn’t even get past Yamato. So he knew something was going on here.

“Jaggy, Tora-o and I combined our forces with the samurai!” He yelled excitedly.

Okay that’s the second time he’s mentioned Tora-o. Who the heck is that? Ace wondered, knowing full well his brother liked giving people nicknames because he had a hard time with people’s names.

“I almost died when I found this new form.” He said as he looked at himself. “I turned white and my heart feels like it’s beating to a drum. I can’t stop moving!” He began bouncing causing the ground to turn to jello. Once more “The battle was SO much fun!”

Ace laughed as his brother began to reinact his fight with Kaidou. His body changing with each movement. Puffing muscles out obscenely with overexaggerated movements. He and Yamato laughed heartily. Grasping his stomach, Ace fell onto his ass. Luffy saw this and ran up to him. “Are ya okay Ace?” Asking this Luffy put his face into his brother’s space.

“Yeah.” Ace said as he wiped tears from his eyes because he had been laughing so hard.

“Oh!” Luffy yelled out. “After you died your fruit was found by Mingo.” He stepped back as he thought about that adventure. Ace’s eyes widened. “When we were in Dress’a’rosa, Mingo tried catching me by using your fruit as a bait.” He grinned at Ace’s panicked look. “I fought a lot of tough guys who wanted it! But then you’ll never guess who showed up to help me get it.”

Ace calmed a bit before thinking for a moment about who would’ve wanted his devil fruit. Nobody really came to the forefront. “I give up Lu; who?” He shrugged his shoulders not really knowing who this Luffy may or may not know.

“Shishishi.” Luffy’s laughter gained momentum. “Sabo!” He burst out the answer as Ace’s jaw dropped once again. “Sabo is alive and is part of the revs army. Robin says he’s number two, but he forgot everything because he got hit on the head really badly. He’s even got this big burn on his face because of it.”

“WHAT?!” Ace yelled his jaw still dropped. That can’t be. Standing up he grasped ahold a Luffy. “Luffy please. You’re exhausting me.” Ace begged his brother to sit still for him. He’d come to the realization that this version of his brother had to have come from the future. It was the only way this version Luffy could be here. Then there was the knowledge he held. “How old are you?”

“Huh?” Luffy cocked his head at the sudden weird question. “Nineteen.”

Ace gave a sudden smile at the answer. “I’m nineteen right now. You are telling me things that haven’t happened yet.” Luffy’s eyes became obscenely wide. “I don’t know how this happened but I’m glad. Maybe this will change my fate. I don’t know how I died. I’m sorry I did. I’m sorry I failed you and that I could keep my promise.”

Luffy’s eyes swelled at the apology. “Ace.” Luffy pouted as the tears poured over and down his cheeks.

“If everything you say will happen then is by us knowing going to change things?” Yamato asked as he walked closer to the brothers the journal of Kozuki Oden in his arms. “There’s nothing about a power that could bring people to the past.” The two brothers looked at him annoyed. Quickly correcting himself, he continued. “It doesn’t mean that one doesn’t exist though!”

Luffy sighed. “I don’t even know how I got here.” Touching his chin thoughtfully as Luffy recalled what he was thinking about when he was pulled through time when suddenly his body began to glow.

“Lu?” Ace questioned his brother as he touched Luffy’s glowing shoulder.

“I think I have to go.” Luffy stated looking at him brother with a serious look he continued to speak. “Whatever you do, do not trust Marshal D. Teach. He’s the reason you die and the Whitebeard pirates are destroyed.” Upon seeing his brother’s eyes widen, he knew he had struck a cord. “He’ll betray you and them. Do not trust him brother.”

Ace’s eyes darkened as they narrowed slightly at Luffy’s words. “I understand.” Luffy knew he could trust Ace to be more vigilant and hoped things would change for his big brother when Luffy was suddenly yanked upwards and away from his sibling and simply vanished from sight.

Chapter Text

Chapter 3: Found

Upon leaving Wano, Ace originally was going to go back to the Moby Dick and ask Pops for help but now with the information that future Luffy had given him, Ace decided to prepare for his death or would have been death year. After his brother’s future self had vanished, Ace hadn’t been able to sleep. He had taken the rest of the night to do some calculations. If Luffy left when he believed he would, a year from now, it for take another six months to a year for Luffy to reach Pops’ territory or the relative area around Sabaody Archipelago. This gave him some time to prepare for his younger brother to arrive in the new world. So he was going to go and begin rounding up some allies for his brother, but first thing was first. He had an asshole to wake up and help get him to remember who he was and the damn promise he had made. Sabo wasn’t going to miss out on Ace’s ass whooping. The fire fist grinned. He was actually excited to go find his other brother.

Pulling out his denden transponder as he sped the Striker up, Ace spoke into it. “Duce, gather our people up; I’ve got a mission for you guys that’s a bit delicate and needs you finesse to do.”

The image of the masked man gave an exasperated groan. “Boss? Is this a mission from Marco? Or Pops?”

“No.” Ace said. “Don’t tell them anything. Also, keep an eye on Teach. I just found out something about him. Don’t underestimate that man. He’s not who or what he says he is.”

“Great.” Duce groan tiredly. “Pops will notice when everyone vanishes, won’t he?”

He will. Ace thought but he needed his people whom he trusted more than anyone including his new brothers and sisters from the Whitebeards. The only people he actually could trust were Pops, Marco, Izou and possibly Thatch. “I’ll explain to him later. Just get our people and head out as I direct. I’ll see everyone soon.”

“Yes sir.” The image grinned at him before the snails face returned to normal.

Pushing back his hair with one hand, Ace put his hat back on his head, as it had been lying on his back the whole time he had been riding Striker. By afternoon he should meet up with the former Spades. Once he had, his plan was simple, they would go out to the East Blue and wait for his brother to begin his journey. It would take them four to six months to reach the area of Sixis and that it’d take another couple of months for them to reach Goa. However, he wanted them to keep to themselves and perhaps anchor around or near Karai Bari Island. If he remembered right there was a little village on the island.

Wasn’t that where I met that jester’s crew? He wondered absently. He was a nice guy. Great food on his ship too. He could only imagine Luffy meeting that guy. Ace chuckled, a smile spreading across his face. Luffy will probably try to recruit that guy. Pushing his flames outward Ace felt the speed of his tiny ship increase. He hated the wait but knew that his people would be at the meeting point when he got there.

Stretching freckled tanned arms over his head, Ace spotted the ship on the horizon. He knew he could count on his people to arrive at their island without having to specify it over the denden mushi. The tiny island was at the edge of Pops’ territory. A tiny unassuming island, that had pink sands and a beautiful uninhabited jungle that also had delicious fruit trees and fish. A corral reef surrounded the entire island with only one entry or exit. It was the only island that Ace had ever claimed as his. He called it Corral Island. Other than Dawn Island, Corral was the only other place Ace had ever felt at home on.

An hour after first spotting the unnamed ship that Duce obviously had stolen, he watched his old crew drop anchor at the floating dock before disembarking the ship. The blue haired former first mate, Masked Duce waved at Ace as the group approached their former captain. “This better be good Ace.” Duce said as he sat down across from his friend and former captain.

“First I want to say thank-you for everyone coming.” He bowed his head towards the group. This alone told them that something important had happened. “Second, before I ask anything out of all of you, I have a story to tell you that happened last night. It’s a doozy of a story.”

The former spade pirates all looked at each other before the only woman of the group spoke. “Whatever you have to say Ace, we’ll listen.”

Ace watched the breeze make her long, wavy light colored hair flutter around her portly face. He smiled softly. “Thanks Banshee.” He explained to them that he’d gone back to Wano without them to talk to Yamato and while there his brother had shown up. This surprised them as he’d only mentioned Luffy like every other day to them when they had first begun their journey. Only from what they could recall, the boy hadn’t even begun his own journey because he was too young yet to be out on the sea. That’s when the story took a turn for the weird when he explained that this Luffy was from the future with a fully awakened devil fruit, who had thought Ace was a dream because he apparently had died. Incredulously Ace not only believed this but because of this belief he wanted to make sure that what his brother had told him of his fate wouldn’t happen.

A tall man with thin limbs and slight shoulders with a mustache, and a tattoo on his left cheek spoke. “So, this future Luffy spooked you with a tale of your death captain?” He asked as he leaned on his sniper rifle.

Ace shook his head. “It’s not just my death Mihar. He had a scar, a bad one across his chest that I’m assuming came from whatever battle that happened when he tried to save me.” He clasped his hands together before rubbing them on his face. “You know how much he means to me. The fact that he gets hurt because of my stupid actions, it hurt.” He looked at them all. “My actions also, might get Pops and the others hurt. Possibly killed. He said not to trust Marshal D Teach.” He felt angry at this part. “That Teach ain’t what he claims to be. That he’ll be the downfall of the Whitebeard Pirates. He was adamant that Teach is the reason I die and that the Whitebeard Pirates are destroyed.”

Everyone gave each other another look. “What do you need us to do?” The man with a skull helmet on asked.

“Skull, I think it’s obvious.” Banshee stated. “We need to protect Ace and his little brother.”

“Huh?” Ace questioned her. That was not apart of the plan. “No. No. No.” Ace waved his hands at her.

“Oh!” Duce yelled out. “That’s a great idea! We can keep him away from Teach by-“

“HEY!” Aced yelled at them, standing from the sandy beach. “That’s not the plan!” His eyes were wide as he waved for them to return their attention back to him.  Once they all looked at them he sighed. “I just want you all to go out to the east blue and keep an eye on Luffy when he leaves in a bit.”

“How long before the kid comes out?” Mihar inquired as he sat up fully, no longer leaning on his riffle.

“A year.” Ace stated. “It’ll take half that long to get out there. I want you to anchor around Karai Bari Island.”

“Doesn’t that island have a permanent crew on it?” A purple haired man asked.

“What’s wrong Cornelia, scared?” Banshee quipped.

“No!” The taller man yelled at the mer -woman who laughed lightly.

Ace missed this. The teasing, the yelling from his old crew. “Settle down.” Duce quieted them. Even if they had no respect of his writing, the former crewmates did respect Duce’s orders as the former first mate. Duce grinned at his former captain and friend. “What are your orders Boss?” Ace grinned back at him. He knew he could always count on these guys.

Lindbergh felt the hairs on the back of his neck prickle. For the last few days it had felt as if he was being watched, which was impossible as nobody even knew he was on the small pirate island of Kyte. The only town on the island was full of pandemonium as people bought and sold items left and right. Everything and anything was being sold. From food and supplies to the more seedier of items that were usually withheld for the black market. These were the items he was here for. One of his contacts had called him because they had a shipment of weapons that had just come out of the South Blue. A revolver that could, for devil fruit users, use the power from the devil fruit a user had eaten. He had to see this weapon and possibly acquire it. However, as soon as he had stepped onto the island every instinct in the mink told him to either run or be on super high alert. So the alleyways and underground tunnels had been his home for the last couple of days.

Lindbergh’s ears twitched to a sound coming from the tunnel he was in. He turned his head, half expecting someone there but to his surprise the space was empty. “Get a grip man.” He told himself. He looked at the hand drawn map. His contact’s newly acquired place of business was just up ahead. After he got the guns, he was out of here. I should have brought Sabo or Koala to watch my back. As it was, both were back on the ship he had come in on. Sabo was suffering from one of his headaches and Koala was fussing over the young chief of staff. He grinned at the thought of the young girl fussing over the blond. Silently wondering if Sabo even noticed that Koala definitely liked him more than a subordinate should.

Coming to the trap door that was above his head, the mink climbed the rickety ladder and pushed the door up and away. Coming up to the place of business, Lindbergh replaced the trap door. There were two people in the room. One was his contact, the second was a young dark haired man wearing a yellow open t-shirt. What is it with humans constantly showing off their chests. Was it a primate thing? He had noticed that a lot of men, especially, did this sort of thing. It had to be something left over from their early evolution days.

Walking up to his contact he could see the elderly man was nervous. That should have been a red flag to him, but then he saw the revolvers and the revolutionary couldn’t believe his eyes. A huge crate full of them that could supply his brother’s and sister’s in the revolutionary army was sitting right there. “Well, let’s see-“ His voice was cut off when the youth turned.

Now when it came to pirates and their wanted posters, Lindbergh rarely paid attention to them. However; when a rookie makes headlines for not only being offered a position as a warlord and shoots it down, you tend to remember the guy just in case Dragon, especially if Dragon wants to keep an eye on him.

Standing before him was the newly appointed second commander of the Whitebeard Pirates; Portgas D. Ace a.k.a. Fire Fist. Only one thing went through his mind. Aw shit.

Chapter Text

Chapter 4: Oh Sabo

Lindbergh felt his body react first before anything else. Reaching for his disappearing powder that could cover his escape, but also had an additional protective layer, the powder could also turn in to an explosive giving him time to slide back down into the tunnels and do a second disappearing act. That is if he had been fast enough. However, Fire Fist must have seen what he was about to do and moved faster than even Lindbergh could react. Ace went to grab the mink’s leather jacket but instead found air where the smaller had been just seconds ago.

Twisting his body to avoid being caught, Lindbergh settled for quickly running out of the building only for his tunic jacket to be caught from behind by the teen who flipped the mink and body slammed him onto the ground. This effectively punched the air right out of Lindbergh’s lungs causing him to gasp weakly. He was bother upset and glad that he had left his jet pack behind on the ship. Before suddenly the teen stood over him before sitting quite literally sitting onto his chest. This effectively blocked any chance of escape.

“Phew!” Ace yelled out with a big grin on his face. “You are a hard man to find.”

Lindbergh swallowed nervously. Trying to reach his one loose hand to his only weapon on his person so that he could reach without gaining too much attention from the pyromaniac. “Y-You don’t say.” He said feeling a bit intimidated. What is this guy made out of? Literal fire? His chest where the pyro was sitting felt like it was starting to be boiled. The intense heat was getting really bad, causing him to sweat profusely.   

“Look I’m sure you are a really busy guy,” Ace begun. “I do apologize for scaring you back there. I know the Whitebeard Pirates and the Revolutionaries don’t really get along, but something came up and I need help.” He removed his hat from his head. “Also I know that you are trying to reach for that dagger that is hidden in your pant leg. So let’s not do that and actually pay attention.” Lindbergh’s eyes widened as he turned his full attention towards the teen. How the hell?

“Good.” Ace grinned as he slowly moved off the smaller body. “How about I reintroduced myself. I’m Portgas D Ace. I’m looking for my twin whom I’ve been told is alive and well. I’ve also been told that he’s a friend to the revolutionary army. His name is Portgas D. Sabo.” Lindbergh’s felt his eye twitch. He really tried not to react to this new information. “He got taken from me and our younger brother years ago. I was told he was dead but only recently found out that was a lie. He was blonde, not sure if he still is.” The last part was just above a whisper. “Oh and he eats, like a lot because he’s a D like myself and our brother.”

Lindbergh, finally relaxing somewhat realized that this guy wasn’t yanking his chain but was being very serious. The way he described his brother Sabo was obviously the same young man Lindbergh considered a friend. He raised a hand to stop the teen from going any further. “Alright. Alright. I get it.” He sighed. “Why me though? How do you know that I know this, Sabo?”

“Oh!” Ace laughed nervously. “You’re not the first guy I tracked down. The last two stated he was friends with a mink revolutionary.” Lindbergh gaped at him. He’d been betrayed so easily? “The last guy took me a week and nearly five thousand berri to get him drunk enough to talk.”

Lindbergh facepalmed. Seriously? Sighing, he looked up at the freckled teen. “Look. You must realize that I can’t betray anyone here…”

“You don’t have to!” Ace took a step back giving a genuine smile and waving both hand in defense. “All I want from you, as Sabo’s friend, is to tell him that his older twin brother wants to talk to him.”

Pushing himself off of the ground, Lindbergh sighed. Oh how to say this. “Well there might be a problem with that.” Ace raised an eyebrow at him. “He…might not remember you.” He said this slowly as suddenly something pinged on his observation haki. Oh? he thought as he felt a haki flare before it diminished almost as fast. He saw Ace smile before something flashed behind the teen. Behind Ace a man in a blue suit was in a mid-air attack with a pipe raised ready to smash the head in of Fire Fist.

Ace’s smile broadened into a huge D grin. “Of course I could just see him myself.” He stated as the pipe went through his chest, the fire from his devil fruit activating. Ace turned to look at Sabo. He looked almost the same except for the scar covering his left eye. “Hello brother.” Sabo’s eyes widened when suddenly a pained expression covered his visage causing Sabo to grasp his face which had his blue top hat falling from his head. Ace stood up, fisted his hand and punched Sabo in the face. “Time to remember idiot!”

One punch to the face was all it took for to fall backwards unconscious. The clang of his pipe falling to the ground followed by the thud of his body, made Ace chuckle. “You always did have a flare for the dramatic.”

Did you guys know? If you share a drink, you can become brothers. We might not be on the same ships when we become pirates, but this will bind us together as brothers!! No matter where we are or what we do, nothing can break this bond!!

Sabo gasped as his eyes burst open. The child’s voice echoed in his mind. Tears began to fall freely from his eyes as the memories began to pour in. Ace. Portgas D. Ace was his big brother. His twin, as they use to say. Ace hated two things more than anything in the world. Crybabies and Gol D. Rogers. Snot was coming out of his nose as tears continued to run down his face. Through blurry eyes Sabo could see Ace’s form. His brother stood over him with that same cocky look he had held the day they had first met when they’d been five year olds playing in the trash heap of the Gray Terminal.

I will be such a great pirate one day, everyone will know my name!

Shishishi! I’m going to be King of the Pirates!

Another voice echoed along with the memory of Ace. Sabo grasped his head. Luffy. His dearest little brother. More tears began to fall. Luffy wanted to be the Pirate King. He had eaten the Gomu Gomu no Mi Fruit. His body was made out of rubber now and he could sling himself from one edge of the deepest canyon on Mt. Colubo to the other with no problem. His little brother wasn’t the smartest but he was one of the bravest people he knew.

Sabo suddenly sat up full on crying. “Ace! Luffy! I’m sorry!!!” He cried out before covering his right eye with his hand. “I’m sorry I forgot!” Ace’s eyes softened at his brother’s breakdown. Holding out a hand towards his brother, of which Sabo grasped, Ace pulled Sabo towards him. Lindbergh on the other hand was about to attack the fire starter when Sabo had woken up crying out his brother’s name along with another’s. The two brothers were now hugging each other as Sabo continued to cry.

Which now begged the question; Who is Luffy?

Chapter Text

Chapter 5: Partial Truth

After breaking down in the alley Sabo had brought Ace to the boat they were using. The small carousel boat with a single sail. Ace grinned as he looked at the jolly roger flag that was flying. Sabo looked over his shoulder to see what Ace was looking at and felt his cheeks heat up. He was the one to design the false pirate flag. The only thing that had made sense to him when he had made it was the use of his pipe weapon as crossbones and the word ASL. Back then it hadn’t made sense as to whom the letters stood for; now it did. His mind had been unconsciously trying to make him remember his brothers.

“Never thought I’d see that flag flying again.” Ace muttered as they entered the sitting area of the carousel.

A girl with soft features looked up from a map looking slightly annoyed as Sabo walked into the room. “Where have you been Sabo?!” she cried out as she puffed out her cheeks out of frustration and a bit of anger.

Oh? Ace thought as his eyebrows raised towards his hairline. She’s cute. He grinned at his brothers flustered reaction.

Placing both hands in front of him to stop his friend from steadily advancing towards him Sabo spoke loudly. “Lindbergh was is trouble!” He took a step back at Koala’s look of anger. “But something good happened!” She looked at the mink behind Ace who was grinning.

“It’s something really good Koala.” He assured her. Her glare turned into a squint as she narrowed her eyes at the two before looking at the new guy in the room.

Feeling her gaze on him Ace bowed towards her. “Apologies.” He stated as Makino’s drilled in lessons came to the forefront of mind. “I’m the reason Sabo thought his friend was in trouble.”

“Who are you?” She questioned but it sounded more like a demand.

Ace was suddenly reminded of Makino. “She’s kind of like big Sis.” he said as pointed at the smaller girl causing her cheeks to heat up as he accidentally avoided her question by making her feel embarrassed.

Koala crossed her arms over her chest, her cheeks still pink.“Who?”

Sabo turned his attention from Ace back to his best friend. “That’s what I wanted to say. I remember.”

Koala cocked her head at him. The excitement in his voice had her suddenly straightening herself up. “How much?”

“Most everything!” He pointed at Ace. “This guy is my twin brother. My full name is Portgas D. Sabo. I have a little brother who ate a devil fruit that turned his body into rubber.”

Ace chuckled. “Do you have any idea how excited he’s going to be to see you alive?!”

Sabo blinked in surprise at this statement. He truly hadn’t thought of it. “Either I’ll going to get a waterfall of tears or he’ll deny I am who I am.”

Ace laughed. Their crybaby of a little brother had cried for days when Sabo had supposedly died. Luffy was going to be ecstatic when he brought Sabo officially home. Thinking of his baby brother made him remember why he had come here at all. “Right.” He sighed before looking up at the ceiling of the room before sitting down. Sabo looked at him confused. Ace always had, had wild emotions that could get out of hand. He had half expected his brother to go into a wild tandem about their brother or something; however his demeanor left him feeling as if something was off.

“Ace-“ he began with a worried tone.

Ace sighed once more. “I need to speak to you without them.”

“Ace,” Sabo began as he leaned against the table Koala had been looking at maps on. “whatever you need to say can be said in front of them.”

Taking his orange hat off Ace looked up at his brother with pained expression in his eyes. “I’m going to die.”

Chapter Text

Chapter 6: Unbelievable

Sabo leaned forward onto the palms of his hands. Ace laid sleeping on the on the futon mattress on the deck as Koala and Lindbergh were asleep in the cabin. His head hurt from everything that Ace had told him earlier.

"I'm going to die." Ace felt his heart freeze at those words.

"That's no-" Lindbergh began only for Sabo's voice to cut him off.

"Out!" he shouted his voice laced with authority. Both of his subordinates and friends gave him a questioning look before silently leaving the cabin.

"You've got to believe me 'Bo, had I known sooner that you were alive I would have found you." Ace stated as Sabo sat across from him.

"Tell me everything." Sabo asked with a pleading look.

"Luffy, he visited me from a not too far away future." Sabo raised an eyebrow at him. "I know." He chuckled. "I was in Wano visiting a friend when he showed up. You should've see him. His hair was white, so were his clothes. He claimed to have awakened his devil fruit completely. It was crazy. He was flying. The ground was reacting like rubber." He shook his head. "He stated that I couldn't be real because I had died. That he had failed in saving me." Ace felt his eyes water. "He tried saving me. A guy with bad blood in him. A guy who is the blood son of the devil king himself." Ace's shoulders began to shake as his emotions began to get the best of him. "My little brother almost sacrificed his life for mine. His dream Sab', he almost sacrificed being King of the Pirates for me!"

Sabo's eyes were wide from this revelation. What on earth had happened to have this occur? What event that hadn't even happened yet, but would happen could cause him to almost loose both of his brothers? Seas was the world that off kilter that it took their brother to slip through time somehow to give Ace a message from the future in order to save him? Clearing his throat he spoke. "They say, that with a D comes the impossible." He grinned at Ace. "There's three of us in our family." Ace lifted his face to look at his brother. "If it were anyone else I would think they were dead ass drunk." Ace rolled his eyes at Sabo's words. "But this is Luffy. I don't know what made him be able to do what he did, but I'm glad it happened." He grinned impossibly wider. "I've got my brothers back and I'll be damned if I let anything happen to either one of you."

"Sabo-!" Ace exclaimed as he held a hand up to stop his brother's train of thought.

"Ace!" Sabo yelled with frustration evident in his tone. "I only just got you and Luffy back! I'm not losing either of you, ever again!" Ace's eyes widened. The elder of the two swallowed the whimper wanting to come out. "You both are worth so much to me. Damn it! You're my brothers! I know you'd sacrifice yourself for us and damn it we'd do it for you." He saw the pained expression on Ace's face increase. "This is what family does." He spoke softly. "I get it. You didn't find me to save yourself. You searched for me to save Luffy from whatever pain you impart on him in your death." Standing Sabo reach into an overhead cabinet and pulled out some sake. "Well, too bad." He said tossing a cup to him before filling it up along with two others causing Ace's expression to soften. "We made a promise a long time ago and I intend to keep it this time. So I'll save both of your asses and kick the ass of whoever is going to try and kill you both!"

"You're an idiot." Ace stated as he tapped his glad with Sabo's.

"Well, nobody said I was intelligent, just that I'm smarter than my brothers."

Sabo chuckled as he sat on the mattress next to his brother's already sleeping form. Koala and Lindbergh were going to be upset once he told them he was leaving in the morning with Ace. As big of an idiot Ace was, Sabo knew he was smart in getting some allies rallied around Luffy. They were going to need a lot of them too. Thinking of allies, Sabo began thinking of everyone he had in his arsenal. There weren't a lot but there were a few who could help his little brother out perhaps even help Ace. Looking at the older teen, Sabo wondered just how differently things could've been had he remembered sooner. Would he have returned to Dawn or stayed with the revolutionaries? A pout formed on his face as he thought of all of the hardships his brothers had gone through without him.

"Yer overthinking." Ace's voice slurred.

Sabo snapped his head to look at him. "Huh?

Ace's eyes cracked opened. "You're overthinking." His voice revealed his tiredness.

"Sorry." Sabo could practically feel Ace's grin. "What."

"Remembering something." Ace mumbled tiredly. "Remember that first night when we finally gave into Luffy's whims of sleeping together."

Sabo grinned as that memory easily came forward. "He wanted to sleep between us."

"And he did." Ace said as he tried to fall to sleep.

"Then we woke up with his arms wrapped around half dozen times around us." Both young men chuckled at the shared memory. "Tomorrow we'll head to Dawn."

"You might be," Ace continued to chuckle as he rolled onto his back. "but I have a certain red haired man to talk to."

"Oh boy," Sabo suddenly shook his head. "You're going to get him involved."

"Last time I spoke with him, he seemed genuinely concerned about Luffy." Ace stated as he recalled the last time he spoke with Shanks. "Luffy idolized the man and from what I could gather, Shanks sees our brother as a really good friend."

"Huh." Sabo thought about that for a minute as he went over a few memories he had of Luffy talking about Shanks. "From what I remember I always thought that Luffy saw the man as some sort of father figure."

"Wait what?" Ace looked at Sabo questioningly.

Sabo shrugged his shoulders. "The way he always talked about him left that impression on me."

Ace sat up and mulled over that little bit of information for a while. He began going over the stuff he could remember Luffy saying about Shanks. The way the man had treated Luffy to the things Shanks and Benn Beckman or the crew had taught him over the year or so they been had going back and forth to Foosha while they were in the East Blue. Having been with the Whitebeard Pirates for less than half a year, Ace had been taught similar things by Pops or one of his new brothers. "Shit. He sees Luffy as family; doesn't he?"

Sabo chuckled before closing his eyes. "You really are slow."

Ace's anger flared. "Whaddya say?!" As Ace's anger heated up Sabo just grinned before completely ignoring his brother's words and going to sleep.

Chapter Text

Chapter 7: WTF

A month a half is what it took for the Whitebeard Pirates to notice the absence of their youngest member. However, it only took Marco fifteen days to become annoyed that Ace hadn’t checked in like he normally did, that didn’t mean the teen had been spotted leaving one of their territories so he hadn’t been too worried. Twenty days into Ace going silent on them was when it was noticed that the little Moby three was MIA along with the rest of the former Spades. This caused a lot of head scratching but nobody said anything, especially to Pops or Marco. That was then though, this was now. A month and a half of silence with a sighting of Ace off of Kyte Island with a known revolutionary!

“How long ago was this sighting?” Izou asked the third division commander.

Jozu grinned at Izou. He had just talked to a friend who was a burlesque dancer on Kyte Island. “Six hours ago.” Was his proud answer.

“Please tell me you told Marco?” Izou inquired knowing full well Marco was to the point of wanting to pull his hair out over their idiot little brother and his troublesome friends.

“Told Marco what?” Came an annoyed voice from behind them.

Turning the two men saw the Phoenix user. His eye was twitching and he had a look that said he was pissed about something. Jozu gulped loudly. No. He had not told their big brother the news yet. “Calm down Marco! It’s good news!” He grinned but waved his hands in front of himself to try and ward off anything his brother would or might throw at him. “It’s about Ace!” At the mere mention of the pyromaniac had a headache starting for Marco, his eyebrow twitched again.

Pinching the bridge of his nose, Marco took a deep breath. “What about him?”

“Jozu knows where he is!” Izou stated chuckling at the deer in the headlights look the big guy had.

Marco grasped the big man by his shirt and pulled his face down towards his own. “Where. Is. ACE!?” He snarled out him.

“Kyte Island!” Jozu yelped as he was release by the first commander.

Marco looked at Izou. “Don’t give me your attitude big brother. I’m not the one you’re mad at.” He smirked knowing Marco only got this hot headed when he was worried. “Go. We’ll tell Pop we found him.”

“Lucky for him we’re close.” With that Marco stalked down the hall of the Moby before he took off from the deck in full flight mode. His blue flames flaring from his immediate anger.

Lucky? Izou wondered. More likely we’ll be burying Ace tomorrow.

It took Marco only a few hours to fly to Kyte Island. The small island was busy as always when he arrived. Ships were still coming into port as the sun began sitting onto the horizon. Marco landed onto an empty dock as two drunks rushed to get out of his way. For the last three weeks he had been keeping feelers out. When Ace didn’t come back after his last sighting Marco had thought maybe the Navy caught the firecracker on that stupid boat of his. Rubbing his face, Marco tried to calm himself down. He’d do this with a clear head and demand to know what was going on.

Marco sometimes wished he had observation haki, it would come in handy right now. Ah well. Guess I’ll just look to see who causing the most damage on the island yoi. He grinned knowing full well Ace couldn’t go a day without damaging someone or something.

Ace groaned as he woke up with arms tangled with Sabo. His brother’s loud snores told him that he hadn’t woken yet. Slowly he began untangling himself, he had after all become a detangler extraordinaire because of Luffy. Once he was out of his brother’s arms, Ace stretched himself properly. Muscles and joints were able to fully relax as they were properly stretched out. Looking over his shoulder he saw the morning light begin coming over the horizon.

Sunrises on Dawn had always been beautiful but over the ocean, it was breathtaking. He suddenly frowned as a dot of blue fire seemed to spark in front of him. Blue fire? He questioned his still sleepy brain when it began to get closer and closer. Then his sleepy brain finally woke up and it clicked  as to what or what had just found him. SHIT! His brain screamed as he scrambled to get out of the way of the human Phoenix shaped missile only for claws to narrowly miss him.

“ACE!” Marco yelled out at the brat.

“Huh?” Sabo slowly sat up. His hair a mess from sleeping through the night. First time he didn’t have any night terrors. What woke me? He wondered as he heard somebody suddenly scream Ace’s name once again. Sabo’s eyes widened as a flaming bird suddenly landed on the cabin where Lindbergh and Koala were sleeping. Grasping his pipe Sabo attacked the unknown devil fruit user from behind and landed next to Ace.

“Who the hell did you piss off this early!?” Sabo yelled as the flames of the made before him reformed the man’s left side easily.

“Sorry ‘Bo.” Ace apologized. He looked back at his pissed off brother. “Let me introduce you to my oldest brother from the Whitebeard Pirates; Marco the Phoenix.”

“Again, I ask, what the fuck did you do to get him pissed!?” Sabo grouched as now he was getting upset with his brother.

Ace scratched the back of his neck. “Uh…technically I may have went silent on the whole crew.” He said the last part very slowly and nervously.

Sabo’s eyebrow twitched. “How long?” he inquired, curiosity getting the best of him.

“Uh…” Ace thought about it for second. Truthfully he wasn’t sure.

Marco had stayed silent after the revolutionary had shown up. It had taken him all night to track down the merchant who had been adamant that Ace had hired him to set a trap for a mink revolutionary which had gone into how the chief of staff had shown up to kill Ace only for the man to have sort of breakdown. In the end he’d been told Ace had gone with the two revolutionaries willingly. He had searched the entire bay, every docked ship until he came across Ace in bed with a revolutionary. Now he was pissed. “A month and a half, yoi.” Marco snarled out. “A month and a fucking half Ace!” Marco’s flames shot upwards and away from him in his anger.

Sabo sighed. His brother really was an idiot. Walking forward he came to the forefront between the two before bowing from the waist up. “I apologize sir.” he spoke with sincerity. “Please forgive my brother. He is an idiotic moron,” He pulled himself upright before looking at Ace with anger. “who I am certain was dropped on his head one too many times!” He took a swipe at Ace with his weapon. “Are you truly that insensitive that you couldn’t have even called them in that time!”

Ace raced across the deck to avoid Sabo’s attacks. Of course his brother had sided with Marco. Even he knew he was being a shithead for not calling but after a month he’d just decided to wait until he called Pops after he visited Shanks. Suddenly he was tackled by Sabo causing the two to slide to where Marco and two startled revolutionaries were waiting. “Umm…Oops.”

Sabo facepalmed. “I swear Garp pounded your brains down until there wasn’t much left.” He groused.

“Garp?” Koala asked. “As in Monkey D. Garp!?” The young woman sounded a bit panicked.

“Wait, you’re brothers?” Marco asked a sly grin spreading across his face as he called his flames away.

“Twins.” Ace stated with a happy grin.

“He thought I was dead.” Sabo explained. “I had amnesia and thought I was a son of a noble family or something because of where I was found by Dragon.”

“Turns out you’re the son of a looser with a pirate as a brother.” Lindbergh stated trying to spin a positive narrative on this.

Ace pushed himself off of the ground. “I know I’m in trouble Marco but I found out some things and I need to do something to stop a very bad thing from happening.” he tried to tell him without going into the whole story.

Marco sighed. “You are in a lot of trouble,” He looked at Ace and knew something was going on. “unfortunately Pops here already and wants an explanation. I want an explanation yoi.”

Ace looked miserable about having to do this. “What if I explained things so Ace could leave without getting into too much trouble?” Sabo asked knowing Ace really wanted to get going to set things up.

Marco cocked his head to the side a little too much like a bird would which had both young men trying not to chuckle at the older man. Marco knew something was going on here. An explanation was all they really needed. If the brother can give that, Pops would be slightly satisfied. After much thought, Marco reluctantly agreed. “Fine.”

Ace’s demeanor changed immediately. He grinned. “Really?”

Marco pinched his nose and nodded. “However, you must contact me every couple of weeks and if you don’t…” He looked at Sabo. “I’ll be contacting him to hunt you down.”

Sabo smirked. “If I have to do so I will be cuffing you with a sea stone and dragging you back to your Pops.”

Ace blanched at the thought of being forced back on the Moby when he had a mission to do. “Yes. I’ll agree to the periodic checking in.” Both Sabo and Marco seemed to be grinning at finally driving it into Ace that checking in was healthy for him. “Why do I have the feeling that you two knowing each other is going to come bite me in the ass.”

“Because it will.” Marco promised with his iconic grin.

Meanwhile in the foothills of Mt. Colubo of Dawn Island the cries of “Gum Gum no Punch!” was heard causing the animal residents to flee as the stretchy appendage of one Monkey D. Luff came flying at his enemy. The fearsome Tiger King jumped out of the way of the fist that the teen had thrown at him, only for the beast to turn his claws at the human that had disturbed his rest on this lazy morning.

Doing some quick thinking Luffy jumped out of the way, flinging his fist towards the tree and pulling back the fist connected with the Tiger King’s face throwing the best several feet away from its intended target. The orange tiger shook itself flinging the dirt to the ground. “Shishishi.” Luffy laughed as a wide D grin plastered itself across his face.

As the two clashed together in the wild jungle, off shore a small inconspicuous boat anchored into the bay. The previously known Spade Pirates had arrived in the Goa Kingdom of Dawn Island early to check on their former captains brother before heading towards the Karai Bari Islands. The former first mate looked at the island in front of him and smiled. He couldn’t wait to check out the island his captain had grown up on.

Chapter Text

Chapter 8: Death Island

Deuce was absolutely terrified. They had decided to check out the island. The area they had landed on had a soft pebble beach, so it had been a good place to bring in their row boat. The island was deceptive, very much so. By the outside it looked quiet with no predators and barely a population to speak of, but once they’d begun to explore the inner area of the island they had instantly regretted their decision.

Huge unspeakably deadly beasts resided on the inside of the jungles.  Snakes that were a hundred times the size of normal ones. Boars that were freakishly huge with giant tusks. Crocodiles, tigers and bears that were the size of the beasts in the New World! Poisonous snakes, plants and even sulfur pits!

Deuce felt like his heart was going to burst from his chest as a gigantic tiger chased him and Banshee down from the mountain as they were the only two who made it up the mountain. This was Ace’s home island? What the fuck!? He mentally screamed. My former captain grew up here? Who the fuck in their right mind would settle on this damn island!?

“This explains so much about Ace!” Banshee screamed as they both jumped onto the bridge and crossed the ravine separating the mountain.

“It does!” Deuce agreed. “Ace is crazy but this island is even more so!”

“How the fuck did he survive this island?” Banshee questioned all the while questioning Ace’s sanity.

As the two finished crossing the bridge a giant ape dropped from the nearby trees. “ROAR!!!” The beast screamed at them loudly forcing the two pirates to freeze in the steps. Looking behind them, Deuce saw the other beast snarling at them. The tiger was looking increasingly hungry.

Talk about being stuck between a rock and a hard place. He thought feeling his anxiety hitting him. This isn’t good.

“Gomu Gomu no punch!”

Suddenly a stretchy fist went past the two adults punched the large ape in the face before being pulled back to where it had come from. Watching the fist disappear into the jungle the two shocked adults looked to where it had vanished. Confusion only lasted a second between the two when suddenly a kid came jumping through the foliage and landed in front of them. “Hey! You okay?”

Am I? Deuce questioned as he looked at Banshee whose jaw had dropped at the sudden appearance of the young teen. “Y-Yeah?”

The kid cocked his head at them before giving them the biggest grin. “Shishishi.” The kid laughed before pulling his straw hat onto his head. “You must be new to this mountain.” He commented. “”You never cross both the Tiger Kings and King Apes territories. They hate each other!” He laughed. “That’s a newbie move!”

“Hey kid, is there a village nearby called Foosha?” Banshee inquired as she eyed the tiger behind them that was keeping its distance.

The cocked his head at the question. “Why?” He asked curiously.

“Our captain wanted us to check on his little brother who lives near there.” Deuce answered thinking perhaps this teen knew Ace’s brother.

The boy’s smile became blindingly bright as a wide D formed on his face. “Are you friends of Ace’s!?” He asked excitedly as he leaned into Deuces personal space his neck stretching out towards him.

“Y-Yeah.” Deuce stated as the kids excitement and sudden use of an obvious devil fruit startled him.

“Shishishi…” the boy laughed. “Big brother is a captain!?” He laughed even more.

“Big brother!?” Both yelled in unison.

“Wait, you’re Luffy?” Deuce inquired with shock evident in his voice.

“Yup!” Luffy yelled excitedly when suddenly the ape behind him roared. “Give me a second.” He held up a finger towards the two before turning towards the beast. “Gomu Gomu no Pistols!” He yelled as he pulled his fist back before releasing them upon the beast. His arms stretching to the impossible causing the two former Spade Pirates jaws to drop. Yeah, Ace forgot to mention his brother was as crazy as he was.

The fists flew so fast that you would’ve thought there were more than two as first the Ape king then the Tiger king were defeated by a mere teenager. “Shishishi.” Luffy laughed lightly before turning back towards the two pirates. “That was fun. So where is Ace?” He asked this even as he looked around the two pirates.

Good question. Deuce thought. “He’s off on a mission.” He looked the boy over. Now that he wasn’t running in fear for his life, he could observe the boy more closely. He was lanky, shorter than himself, a bit too skinny, though he still had the baby fat around his face that could make any granny want to squeeze it. “Ace has talked about you since the first day I met him.” His words caused the boy to smile.

“That’s good to know.” Luffy stated with joy in his voice. “I’ve sure missed my big brother. Always wondered what he’s been up to.” He took the straw hat off of his head and spun it on the tip of his finger. “Gramps never tells me what’s going on with Ace and I don’t think the Coco News tells the truth because they make it sound like he’s a bad guy. I know my brother!” He said vehemently. “He wouldn’t attack people without cause! And he wouldn’t attack civilians! Makino taught him Breyer and Dadan would pound his head in with her club if he ever hurt innocent people!” He stopped playing with his hat before grinning again. “So if you tell me what Ace has been up to I’ll take you safely down the mountain to Foosha.”

Deuce chuckled. “And if we don’t?”

Luffy thought about it for a moment. “You’ll have to do it yourself.” He giggled lightly once again. “You most likely end up in the Grey Terminal.”

That sounded ominous. “What’s the Grey Terminal?” Banshee inquired. Knowing full well that they really did need this kids help.

Luffy looked confused for a second. “It’s not a what. It’s a where.” He scratched his head before seeming to start picking his nose. “The terminal is a town of criminals and misfits. It’s right next to the noble city.” He flicked his booger at the unconscious Ape king. “Both are bad places and neither would welcome you.”

Both felt sweat drop down their necks. So why was there a place like that here? They both wondered. “That’s an easy decision then.” Deuce said as he walked up to the boy wrapped an arm around his neck and continued. “You help us and I’ll gladly tell you everything about your dear ole brother.” Luffy’s grin broadened. “But first we need to find the missing members of our group. We kind of got separated.”

“Shishishi.” Luffy laughed. “I know. I already found them and left them near the waterfall next to the crocodile river.” Deuce looked at the kid with shock. “I’ve been following you guys around since you first got here!” He laughed even louder as both pirates fell over from shock. This kid had been tailing them for hours! And didn’t help them out until now!? Deuce felt annoyance tick at his forehead. If this guy wasn’t Ace’s kid brother I would kicked his ass right here and right now. Luffy continued to laugh without knowing how close the former first mate was to attacking the young man. All the while Banshee was left feeling a big gobsmacked. The island, the brother, it explained SO much.  

Chapter Text

Chapter 9: Meeting

Sabo’s eyes widened as he stared at the man before him; Edward Newgate a.k.a. Whitebeard. Despite his name the older pirate didn’t sport any beard but a broad mustache. He was a giant of a man. No wonder his ship is so big. He thought as he reached up and pulled his hat from his head. “Sir. Thank-you for seeing me.” He bowed. “I apologize for the trouble my brother has caused you and your sons.”

“I hear you are his twin.” The older man stated sounding amused. “You look nothing alike.”

“It’s a joke between us.” Sabo reassured him. “The truth is Ace was born in January and I in March, but because our ages were so close we decided to share Ace’s day and I partly didn’t want Ace to ever to feel alone.” The older man gave him a gentle smile.

“I’ve been informed that you are going to explain to me,” Newgate then looked at his gathered men. “and my sons why your brother and his former crew have gone missing for the last several weeks.”

“Yes sir, I will.” Sabo looked over his shoulder catching sight of the one that Ace had warned him about. Marshal D. Teach. The man didn’t look dangerous but as Sabo stretched his senses he could feel a darkness in the man and something…something else too. He frowned before sitting on the deck in front of Ace’s pops. He felt like he was the one being judged here and he really didn’t like it.

“Ace told me everything that happened to him over a month ago, but before I divulge  into that, how much about Ace’s past do any of you know?”

“Why do you need to know that?” Izou inquired getting slightly annoyed by the younger man.

“Did you know about him having a brother?” Sabo inquired from the man who was obviously from Wano. The dialect giving him away. Gaining no answer from anyone was his answer. “Ace is the oldest of us. We are three brothers. I’m the middle. Our youngest brother ate a devil fruit years ago. Only thing we knew it could do was rubber based attacks.” There were a few chuckles at this. “Keep that in by the way.” He turned his attention away from the men back to their pops. “Ace went to visit a friend in Wano. Some guy named Yamato. While they were talking he said that someone began falling from the sky. He thought the person was from one of the Sky Islands or something.” He chuckled. “It turned out to be an older version of our little brother.”

A tall muscular, broad-chested, tanned man with a curly, black mustache, a dark blue top hat, and an earring in each ear, wearing a semi-open dark blue shirt and hairy chest spoke. “What do you mean by older version?” The man sounded confused.

“I mean sometime in the future our brother either finds another fruit user that’s able to send him into the past or awakens in fruit that able to send him into the past. We don’t know.” He saw that most were unbelieving of this happening. “I was skeptical too. However I have never known Ace to flat out lie about something like this.” Of course he was leaving out the fact that he and Ace haven’t seen each other in almost eight years because he had amnesia. “Ace stated that our brothers future self told him that Ace was going to die and that a traitor to his pirate family, you all, was going to cause the deaths of his pops and most of his new brothers. That this would cause a war between this traitor, who will side with the World Government, the remaining Whitebeards and the Navy. That the territories you hold with be decimated.” He could feel the sudden fear of the men onboard. It was then that Sabo felt anger rolling off of the older pirate in waves of haki. He swallowed hard. So this is the Conquerors Haki of Edward Newgate. It was barely bubbling to the surface in contained waves of energy. He saw a few newbies suddenly fall. Others grasping the side of the ship for support. Their wills not up to snuff as their pops anger came to the surface.

“Who is this traitor?” The old man demanded the older teen.

Sabo was never so thankful to have gone through some haki training once his own had started to form. His will was stronger than most but even he was having trouble breathing with this man’s haki being released. “I-I don’t know.” He stuttered. “Lu didn’t tell him.” He turned to see Marco’s hard gaze looking up towards his pop. “However, as much as that hurts Ace what truly hurt him was seeing a large scar across our brother’s body along with fresh blood on his person. Ace felt that it was his duty to ensure our little brother’s safety. He stated that it was because he couldn’t stop Ace from dying, couldn’t stop the war, couldn’t stop everyone from being hurt that he, our little brother, almost died.” Sabo rubbed the back of his neck. “Ace has always been stubborn. He doesn’t care that in less than a year he will die. He doesn’t care about the traitor. What he cares about is our little brother. So he’s gotten it in his head that he’s got a year to get his brother some allies that’ll keep him safe. He’s got a year to prepare for a war that’s going to kill most you and that includes finding a way to protect you sir.” Sabo nodded towards Whitebeard who was astonished. “Ace came looking for me to help. I’ve got some connections that can help, not many; but we’ll do our best in keeping our eyes and ears out for this traitor of yours.”

Whitebeard suddenly slammed the butt end of his naginata that was named Murakumogiri to the ground causing waves of residual energy to go out from the butt end of the weapon. “We will find this traitor and deal with him in our own ways.”

Sabo was so glad he was sitting because of the shockwave of that energy had hit him, he would’ve been on his ass anyways. His hands were gripping his pant legs, shaking slightly, most from terror. The anger coming off of Newgate wasn’t something he’d ever experienced before, even from Dragon. Swallowing the lump in his throat, Sabo gave a nod. “Yes sir. However, I’d still like to assist. This traitor, who ever he or she is, will cause harm to both of my brothers through their actions.”

The older man hummed as he thought about this. Having another set of eyes may be a good thing, no matter if that person was a kid. “Perhaps you’ll be of use to your brother’s pursuit of this traitor.” Whitebeard looked out towards his sons. “We will stop this travesty from happening.” He assured them. “The traitor will be found and disposed of in our way. We won’t be going to war today but if it comes we will greet it in the way of the Whitebeards.”

“Head on and through the heart, yoi.” Marco joked lightly before turned towards his brothers. “We don’t know who the traitor will be so that means we will have to keep our guards up around any new faces. Be aware of where you are and who you are with! I don’t need to burry any of you idiots, yoi.” Laughter erupted across the ship at the last part of Marco’s speech.

Afterwards most of the men began filtering off and away, others had questions for Sabo, wanting to speak to him. However, Sabo didn’t leave Whitebeards side even after the men began leaving him alone. The reveal of Ace having not one but two brothers had finally seeming to have the curiosity leave it when only an hour before most would’ve had questions for the young man.

The older man and first mate looked at the mysterious young man. “Was there something else?” Whitebeard inquired.

Sabo stood before walking closer to the two. He bowed once again to them. “I just want to say thank-you to both of you.” He stood straight once more. “Ace has always had a hard time finding his place in this world because of his blood father. He told me how you all accepted him and made him feel welcomed and loved here. That he finally has found a sense of purpose. So thank-you. Thank-you for accepting my brother with all his flaws and quirks and everything that Lu and I have been trying to make him see for years.” Marco smiled only then did he heard his pop’s laughter.

“That boy has such promise.” Whitebeard said with a softness to his voice that only a father held for his child. “I want to see him shine, but this world wants to squash the fire that burns in his soul.”

“I’ll try my best to ensure it stay lit.” Sabo promised. “It’s because I see how much you care that I want to give you one last warning.” Both men raised their eyebrows at him. “Lu’s future self didn’t say the traitors name but he did warn that Teach is the cause of the downfall of the Whitebeard pirates. Take that with what you will but I don’t want to any of my brother’s friends hurt. Be careful sir, that man isn’t who or what he says he is.” With those words Sabo quickly left the ship for his that was anchored next to the overwhelmingly large Moby Dick.

Meanwhile Edward Newgate was left to ponder the fate of one man that he’d been warned three times about now. First from Roger, then by Shanks and now by a boy from the future. If he was to believe everything that he’d been told, then all roads for the destruction of his family led straight to Marshal D. Teach. His mind told him one thing but his heart told him another. For the first time in a very long time, the world’s strongest man didn’t know what to do and could only pray to the sea goddess to give him some guidance.

Chapter Text

Chapter 10: Red

The beautiful island of Tyre Island with its white sandy beaches and large palm trees was practically a desolate island with less than fifty full time inhabitants that had built outward from the island with a boardwalk that was made from natural boulder rocks and coral reef. The few island trees that were on the island bore fruit for the inhabitants and the island guests coming to and from the island. The major exports were fish and sake made from the sweet island fruit. Waving above the island was a jolly rodger with a single skull that had three red stripes going through the eye of the skull and two swords where the cross bone would’ve been. It was a well known pirate group, the red haired pirates, who were currently on the island enjoying the sweet tastes of this small island.

Benn Beckman lit a cigarette as the cabana girl brought him and those at his table another round of beer and sake. Lucky was munching on snacks from the local snack house as the others got themselves drunk as skunks. From his peripheral vision he saw Shanks at the bar downing another drink as he teased the barmaid. He knew what the boss was doing, getting intel of the area as the rest of the crew got to rest.

Benn allowed his tired eyes to scan the bar before his grey blue eyes turned towards the new recruits. They were all young, ready to show their strengths to the boss. Rookies really. He didn’t dislike the newbies but he find the lot a bit too much like show offs. There was a time and place for that, thankfully it was a lazy afternoon and nobody was here to try and challenge Shanks. Taking a puff from the cigarette he allowed the smoke to settle into his lungs bit longer before letting it out. Perhaps I can get Hongo to give me some of the good stuff later. He thought knowing the doctor only allowed him to use that on special occasions.

It was just as Been was about to take a sip of his whisky when he saw a subtle shift from Shanks. From the corner of the cabana Yasopp who was strumming a ukulele paused in playing the instrument. Shanks turned his entire person towards the entrance of the building. Standing there was the all familiar Portgas D. Ace. Oh this’ll be good. He thought as he threw back the drink, the familiar sting had him wincing slightly as Ace walked past him and the others towards Shanks.

“Well you’re a bit off course.” Shanks pointed out, a tease on his lips which died at the tired look from the youth in front of him.

“We need to talk sir.” Ace said as he took off his hat. He wanted to be respectful but he was tired from looking for this man in front of him.

“Oh?” Shanks asked his brows raising towards his hairline. “Have you gotten tired of being apart of the old man’s crew already?” He teased lightly. “There’s always room on my crew especially since you’re Luffy’s brother.” He held out a cup of beer to the young man. “Join us?”

Ace shook his head at Shanks’ words. “I’ll take the beer but not the offer.” He answered as he took a seat next to the legendary captain.

“Too bad.” Shanks stated as he watched the teen down the booze in one gulp. “Then why are you on one of my territories Ace, if you’re not here to join.”

Ace looked at the bottom of the now empty cup in his hand. “I figured you might want to help Luffy since he’s your friend.” Shanks didn’t say anything but the rest of the crew watched him with Ace. When Luffy’s name was spoken everyone had stopped what they were doing in order to listen.

Shanks turned towards him. “I didn’t think Luffy was off Dawn just yet.”

Ace sighed as he put the cup down. “Technically he’s not.” He stated. “I had something happen to me in Wano. I got a visitor. It was Luffy but older.” He looked at Shanks. “My brother somehow got himself sent into the past before he suddenly left. He told me some things and now I’m trying to help him in any way I can.”

Shanks groaned. Oh why am I afraid suddenly. Knowing Anchor. “Some things can’t be changed. Perhaps what’s going to happen needs to.”

Ace tapped his finger onto the bar signally the barmaid for another beer. “Sure, but what if that something is for my brother to die or almost die.” Shanks looked at him with a glare as Haki began seeping out from him.

“What happened?” Shanks’ voice was low, almost a growl.

“According to that Luffy he failed.” Ace said his heart aching as he recalled what his brother had looked like. “He had a scar across his chest in the shape of an X. It looked like a burn. He didn’t say who did it but I have an inkling that it may have been made by Akainu. He said he had failed to stop the war. Failed to stop Pop and us all from dying.” He pushed his hair back with his hand as the new tall glass of beer was placed in front of him. “Pops and the others might need help in the next year. Luffy will need the same help.” He looked at Shanks. “What do I have to do to get you to come help?”

Ah. Beckman thought having been waiting for that from the kid. He grinned knowing what his boss was going to say.

“Well, if it’s for Anchor…” Shanks began as he turned to looked over his shoulder at his men. “we’ll just have to help him.” He leaned onto the bar. “After all, he is our friend.” He sat a sake cup down before walking over to his first mate. “Seems like fate is stepping in again.”

“Ah.” Beckman agreed with his captain. Looking over at the youth, the older pirate noticed the kid seemed lighter, like the whole world was no longer weighting him down like it had been when he had first stepped into the sheltered cabana. Boss has that effect on people. He thought as he took the whisky bottle and poured himself a second cup. “I wonder what this future Luffy looked like.”

Shanks grinned joyfully. “I bet he’s had fun! Can you imagine? Little Anchor?” His smile diminished. “But if someone hurt him…”

“They better be prepared for us.” Yasopp quipped.

Truthfully Ace hadn’t been sure about coming to find Red Haired Shanks. The youngest Emperor was known to not like stepping in to other pirate groups disputes, especially when it came to disputes with the Navy and World Government. After all you can’t be a diplomat and a partying pirate. It just didn’t mix well.

Now though, seeing how all of the older members were reacting towards the news of Luffy possibly getting hurt, it made him glad he had come to talk to them. They didn’t question whether this was true or not, they agreed to help unashamedly. It made the load on his shoulders feel lighter. This just left one more thing to get ready for Luffy; find as many allies to help his brother as he possibly could.

Laughter from the older members of the Red Haired pirates caused Ace to look towards them. The dark haired teen facepalmed as he watched the red haired man dance as Yassop played his instrument. Peeking between his fingers he saw Shanks almost fall. Turning away, he knew his shoulders were shaking from laughter. It was like watching Luffy all over again. The red haired man and his brother were too much alike. It was no wonder they got along so well.

After a while of enjoying drinks and food, Ace walked away from the cabana to his ship. Untying the Striker, Ace jumped onto the crescent raft ship and powered up his devil fruit, feeding the energy of the Mera Mera no Mi into the engine and sped off towards his next island. He knew of two individuals who would love to help his brother as those two have been fighting each other for years!

Chapter Text

Chapter 11: Giants

Ace tipped his hat back as he heard the clashing of weapons. He had come to Little Garden in hopes of talking to the two dueling giants. Both had wide grins on their faces as their weapons clashed against each other. Luffy will love meeting these two. He thought as the ground shook from their steps. Even the beasts of the island seemed to know to keep their distances from these two lest they be crushed.

The crashing of both giants falling shook the entire island. This was the opportunity Ace was waiting for. Quickly making his way through the island to the interior Ace found both giants laughing. The first turned his head towards him. “ACE!”

“Yo, Brogy!” Ace waved at the short bearded blonde. The grainy roared with laughter causing the vicking like armor to shake with his laughter. He turned towards the other giant. “Dory! Looking good since that episode with the volcano!”

Dory laughed. “My beard even grew back!” He yelled joyously.

“Do you need something Ace?” Brogy inquired as he sat upright once again, Dory following suit.

“You haven’t visited in months,” Dory grinned. “so you must need something.”

Ace groaned inwardly. Am I that transparent? “Uh,” he rubbed the back of his neck. “sort of.”

“Knew it.” Brogy stated with a grunt as he stood up.

Ace sat on a branch closer to the giants. “Well, can you blame me?” He pointed to them. “You’re always fighting each other because of those damn fish you two caught. I offered to measure them last time I was here but you didn’t want me to.”

Dory snorted. “They’re nothing but bones now.”

“So you can’t get an accurate measurement.” Brogy stated as he crossed his arms over his chest.

Ace rolled his eyes at this. He’d heard of being stubborn but these two took the cake. “Anyway, I wanted to ask a favor.”

“Hmm?” Dory hummed.

Brogy raised a brow at him. “Oh?”

“My little brother will be coming out onto the sea and knowing him, he will come to Little Garden.” He began as he looked up at both seeing that they were looking at him, Ace bowed at them. “Please, will you become his friends and allies?”

“That’s it!?” Brogy asked incredulously.

Dory burst out laughing. “Why would we do that? Is he a mighty warrior?”

Ace grinned. “The mightiest that I know and perhaps the most stupid irresponsible little shit I’ve ever known in my life.” Ace laughed lightly. “But..” He gained their attention at this. “He’s my little brother and I want to help him with his dream.”

“His dream?” Brogy inquired.

Ace grinned proudly. “He plans to become King of the Pirates.” He chuckled. “I know you both don’t really care about what’s going on there but I care and I want my brother to succeed.” He shrugged his shoulders. He then grinned inwardly. Perhaps he could use his ace in the hole. “If you don’t want to help, that fine.” He turned to leave. “But even Shanks is his friend.”

“Shanks is?” Dory asked.

“Shanks is a good friend to have.” Brogy said with a nod.

“What’s your kid brother’s name again?” Dory asked gaining his rivals attention.

“Lu-“ Ace began but was interrupted.

“What!? You’re going to befriend him?!” Brogy asked with annoyance.

“What and you were?!” Dory asked with equal annoyance.

The two men grabbed at their weapons. “The kid will want a strong ally not an indecisive one who can’t admit defeat over a damn fish!” Brogy swung his weapon. Dory swung his weapon to block the attack.

Ace jumped away from the two, infighting his flame power and flew up and away from the danger. Okay. Did I just inadvertently start another war between those two? He watched from the striker as the two giants began arguing over who was going to befriend Ace’s little brother first. Yeah. Maybe coming here wasn’t the best idea.

Sabo groaned as the sun bore down upon him. Lindbergh and Koala had both defiantly refused to let him go by himself when he had announced that he was going to Dawn to see his other brother. His two subordinates were currently in the cabin trying to stay cool and rest. Their ship was currently in the Calm Belt heading towards the east blue. Their ship had been speeding through the ocean when they suddenly came to a full stop because of the lack of air movement in the belt.

As much of an annoyance that was, it was nothing compared to the monster sea kings in this area. He was hoping for a miracle really. The damn engine on the skip had conked out. With no leftover cola for fuel they were now dependent on him or Lindbergh either fixing the engine or for a storm to suddenly come to life so they could ride the waves and wind towards the east blue.

Unfortunately luck didn’t seem to be on their side. It was at this moment as Sabo kicked the engine to start, out of frustration mostly, when he heard the sound of water splashing. Turning around he saw the largest cat-like sea king he had ever seen in his life coming out of the water being chased by another lizard-like sea king. This one reminded him of the sea king that guarded his home island, the very one responsible for eating Red Haired Shanks’ arm. As the two sea kings fought, their bodies began to cause the calm sea to move. Waves gained in height and soon the little ship was moving along like a bath toy in a giant tub. Without an engine they only had steering. Quickly thinking Sabo raised the main sail, trying to capture the air in order to keep their little ship going for as long as possible.

Meanwhile on Dawn, Luffy was grinning widely as Masked Deuce, as he learned the guy’s name was, continued to tell him about Ace’s adventures and misadventures. The bad stories usually ended with Ace running away from a larger enemy only to come back at them with his fire type devil fruit. That was another thing he had learned. Ace had eaten a devil fruit after vehemently saying he’d never eat one.

Luffy pushed the doors to Party’s Bar and waved at Makino. “Makino! Look what I found!? This is Masked Deuce! He’s friends with Ace.”

Deuce watched the green haired woman turn towards him and the others behind him. Although she looked friendly outwardly, he saw her eyes darken at the mention of them being Ace’s friends. She wasn’t as trusting to this claim as Luffy seemed to be. “Really?” she said with doubt in her tone. “Where is he?”

“Ace sent us here to check on his little brother.” Deuce answered as he rubbed Luffy’s head in a friendly gesture. This gained laughter from the younger boy. “Ace learned that an enemy may have learned of his home and possibly Luffy, so as he’s out with some crew hunting these people down, he asked us his most trusted friends to keep an eye on this one here.” He pointed to Luffy who was picking his nose.

Banshee sat down on a stool in front of the woman. “I’ll have to say, out of all of the islands out in the east blue I would’ve never have thought this island was his home nor that it has beasts on it that are similar to those on islands on the Grandline.”

“Eh?!” Luffy exclaimed. “Really?” Excitement suddenly lit up on his face. “That’s awesome!”

“More like scary.” Mihar groaned as he found a seat in one of the bars booths. The thin man looked exhausted as he laid his head onto the table in front of him.

Makino just smiled as she began filling some glasses with beer. Signaling Luffy to give them out to the group. “Terrifying.” Saber said with a shiver. “We got chased by a giant Boar through a ravine. That fucking pig was as big as a damn house!”

“A pig?” Deuce asked incredulously. “Try an Ape the size of the mini Moby and a Tiger that’s the size of the old man!” The crew looked at him with dropped jaws. Just where the hell were they!?

“Shishishi…” Luffy laughed as he jumped onto the barstool near Makino. “You guys are funny.” His grin got wider; if that was possible. “Do you have anymore stories about Ace and you guys?”

“Masked Deuce was stranded on an island with him for over a month.” Banshee stated with her own grin.

Deuce chuckled. “I tried to kill him too.” Gripping his stomach Luffy burst out laughing.

“Ace did the same thing with me!” Luffy laughed harder. Makino’s own giggle was muffled as she tried to cover her mouth.

“Karma’s a bitch.” The statement caused Luffy to look down at a small, fair-skinned man with small round eyes, a small nose, and thick lips. He cocked his head at the man. “What!?” The man yelled feeling defensive.

“Er…who are you again?” Luffy asked having inquired of everyone’s name but couldn’t for the life of himself recall this guy’s name.

“FINAMORE!” the small man yelled furiously. “It hasn’t even been an hour since I told you my name! How could you forget it so fast!?”

The group burst out laughing as Luffy rubbed the back of his neck. “I’m very sorry.” He apologize sincerely.

“Tch!” Irritated Finamore walked up to the kid. “Try to be better kid.” He walked away to a secluded spot in the corner of the room.

Deuce chuckled. “FINAMORE has always been a bit sensitive, but he’s a good guy.” He assured Luffy.

“Ah. I’m sure.” Luffy smiled once more. “Ace wouldn’t have any bad crewmates with him.” He brought his cup of juice to his lips.

“What are you drinking there kiddo?” Banshee inquired noticing the blue tint to the drink.

Luffy grinned up at her. “Juice!”

“Juice!?” The crew asked sounding a bit shocked.

“I don’t like the taste of alcohol.” he laughed at them.

“Why am I not too surprised?” Banshee asked before she laughed as well. “Ace doesn’t like the taste either, not unless he puts something spicy in it.”

Luffy grinned. “He’s always been like that!”

Makino chuckled. “That’s so true.” The group could definitely believe that. Their captain’s hot tastes seemed to match his personality.

Meanwhile across the sea, said teenager began sneezing profusely before it stopped. Looking around himself he wondered if someone was talking about him and that was why he had a sudden sneeze attack.

Chapter Text

Chapter 12: The Return

Luffy stretched his arms over his head as he tried to shake off sleep. His stomach rumbled loudly demanding that he feed it. Scratching his belly the teenage boy slowly stood up and began to make his way down to the coastline to fish for breakfast. Perhaps he'd catch a big one and he wouldn't have to fish for long. His stomach rumbled once again. Luffy groaned. Okay! I get it! He mentally yelled at his stomach. Maybe Dude..er..Deuce will tell me more stories today. He grinned happily at that thought before racing towards the shore.

Coming to the all familiar cliff where he and Shanks use to hang out when he was a kid, Luffy came to a stop as he looked for the rope he had left here. Once locating it, he began to pull it back up from over the cliff. After a few minutes a crab box was pulled up. Inside the trap were several crabs and a single lobster. Sitting he began to look the crustaceans over to make sure none had eggs on them. Long ago, Sabo had taught him to never eat those as they were breeding females that would keep the local population steady.

Yosh! These are good to eat! He grinned. He wasn't going to eat them himself. He'd take these down to the Foosha morning market where he could trade them in for fish and various copious amounts of fruit. Ace had taught him that. Trade one thing for many.

Making his way down the familiar jungle path, Luffy decided to check on his other traps nearby. Finding them empty though he continued his way down the path. The morning air was a bit chilly but he was use to these kinds of mornings. Maybe it's going to be an early winter. He thought. The last time they had chilly mornings in summer had led to an early winter. Nobody had been prepared for it either, leaving man residents of the sleepy village needing help with food. Luckily Luffy had been willing to hunt for the entire village.

As he rounded a building towards the main street of the village, Luffy caught sight of Makino sweeping in front of the bar. Woop Slap sat in his rocker rocking as the morning sun rose higher into the sky, a cup of coffee in his hand. Luffy scrunched up his nose at the smell coming off the steaming cup. He didn't like the taste or smell of coffee. It was bitter like alcohol, only different. He then noticed the pirate ship docked at the docks. Deuce and his friends had moved their ship into the bay last night. The ship was now at the docks with the crew going up and out of the ship to get supplies and restock their cargo. Banshee having stated that they were going to Karai Bari next to some village called Orange Town. It made Luffy feel anxious and excited for his new friends. He couldn't wait to get out there onto the sea!

Luffy's eyes narrowed at the sight of an unfamiliar ship in the bay. It wasn't quite the same as the fisherman ships at the docks. Wasn't quite a house boat but looked similar. It had a sputtering engine going which sounded like it was about to give out at any second. Touching the top of his head, he grinned before turning towards Makino. "Makino! I think we have a new ship coming in!"

Makino shielded her eyes as she looked out into the bay. Sure enough a small ship was limping towards the docks. "It sure does!" She agreed as she placed the broom against the bar wall before she went on ahead to get the glasses and plates ready for the undoubtably tired and hungry travelers.

Luffy's smile broadened as he ran up the docks to the new ship. A cat man threw a rope at him. This wasn't the first time that Luffy had met a non-human but it was the first feline type he'd ever met. "Please tell me this is a mink friendly place." the man asked immediately seeing the shock and awe from the teen.

"Of course!" Luffy yelled. "As long as you don't cause any trouble here."

The cat man chuckled. "I never plan that, it just happens."

Luffy burst out laughing. I like this guy! He sounds like he has a lot of fun!

"Lindbergh!" A young woman with dark brown hair came out of the cabin and sauntered up to the cat man.

Luffy heard the name but it went through one ear and out the other. "Catburg." He muttered to himself.

"Huh?" Lindbergh inquired a bit confused. What did that kid call me?

Luffy grinned widely. "Catbird?" he inquired with a cock of his head to indicate he hadn't really heard the name spoken very well.

Lindbergh's face heated up in embarrassment. "It's Lindbergh!" He yelled at the teen. "How the hell did you get catbird out of that!?"

"I'm sorry!" Luffy yelled back in fright. Oh! "Hey want to join my crew?"

"Huh?" Lindbergh asked genuinely confused by this kid. "What crew?"

"In a year I'll be sailing around forming my pirate crew." Luffy announced. "I'm going to become King of the Pirates! Want to join?"

"Why?" Lindbergh wanted to hear this one. Becoming the king of the pirates was a new one. Most just wanted to find Roger's Island of Laghtale and the One Piece there. Becoming the king wasn't ever on anyone's mind.

Luffy thought about his question for all of thirty seconds. "Because you look cool." was his innocent answer.

Lindbergh grinned at this. He liked this kid. At least he can see I have talent. Shaking his head, Lindbergh replied. "No thanks kid."

"He's got a previous engagement." Koala stated. "Besides he knows I'd kick his ass if he abandoned his station." She waved her fist at the mink who swallowed hard at her statement.

"What are you trying to do Luffy, steal my crew?" a new voice joined them. Luffy looked at the blonde man in the blue suit and top hat. The man had a scar over his left eye and he could see more scarring under the open collar of his white shirt. "Don't tell me you've forgotten me?" The man teased. Luffy looked at him confusedly.

Do I know this guy? Luffy wondered. He didn't sounds or look familiar.

"You know this kid Sabo?" Koala inquired. Her friend having never told her who his brother was just that they were going to go see his little brother.

"Sabo!?" Luffy yelled. "Impossible!" Anger began to cross his features. "He died! I know because-"

The man took his hat off. "Luffy I am so sorry that I haven't been there for you and Ace. It must have been hard for you both." He walked towards his brother from the cabin. "But I swear, had I never gotten onto that boat I never would've left until Ace did. I missed everything. We made a promise the day we drank Dadan's sake and I didn't keep my end of that promise." He stopped at the edge of the boat. "So I swear now that nothing will ever stop me from being there for you and Ace ever again."

"SABO!" Luffy's arms stretched out, grasped in brother by his head and pulled himself across the gap between them. His legs wrapped around his torso. Luffy's outcry caught the attention of those of the former Spades. The whole group peered over the edge of the mini Moby. The sight of Luffy crying like a blubbering baby was what they saw.

Sabo's hands waved frantically as he first tried to keep his balance when Luffy had launched himself at him. Now that Luffy was in his arms he couldn't breathe as the younger had his arms wrapped multiple time around him. Grasping Luffy's shoulders he pulled his brother away slightly and gasped for air. His companions were laughing slightly at their usually composed commander's situation. He gently glared at them. "Not funny guys." This statement just garnered more laughter as Luffy's tears were now soaking his older brother's clothes. "Luffy. I swear, I'll make this right. Loosing my memories of you and Ace had me searching like a blind man in the dark for the answers to my past and now that I have them back I'll make sure that you, Ace and I keep that bond once more."

Luffy slowly pulled himself together again. Unwrapping his arms but not his legs from Sabo. His hand held onto Sabo's shoulder to keep his balance while his free hand covered his face. "I'm sorry I'm such a crybaby but I can't help it!"

Sabo grinned. "I never thought of you as that. Besides you're my baby brother. You're allowed to cry every once in a while."

Luffy placed his chin on Sabo's shoulder still crying as his brother held him. Behind Luffy, Makino and others had gathered to see what the commotion was about. The green haired woman clasp a hand over her mouth. "Sabo!" she cried as she recognized the young man holding Luffy.

Sabo turned his head towards her and gave her a smile. "Makino." He whispered her name causing the older woman to weep harder as she rushed over to the boy that had been thought to be dead. She was so grateful in that moment.

Eventually Luffy let Sabo go even though tears were flowing freely from him by now. The young teen was having a hard time controlling his emotions. He'd always been a little emotional but seeing Sabo alive had made the floodgates open. Once Sabo was free of Luffy's tight hug, Makino wrapped him up into a second one just as tight before she pulled away and touched his scared face.

"You are never allowed to leave like that again." She gently warned him. "Next time you have a problem with your brothers, you come to me."

"Of course Makino." He assured her with a smile. "Ace and I already made up. I just had to come home and see Luffy."

Makino sighed. She was happy he and Ace had already seen each other. "What happened?" she asked wanting to know why he hadn't come home until now.

"I had amnesia until Ace punched me in the face a few months ago." He stated with a groan at the memory of being hit by his brother. Makino covered her mouth to stop from laughing only for Luffy to burst out laughing next to her with a boisterous laugh.

Above them Masked Deuce grinned as he heard them from his perched position on the mini Moby. "Told you that Captain had a mission to do Luffy!" he yelled at them.

Luffy laughed harder. The fact that his older brother had found Sabo and called it a mission made Luffy laugh because that sounded like something Ace would do. Especially if he didn't want anybody's help with it. Putting his arms over his head, Luffy wondered how his brother had learned of Sabo being alive. After a moment he looked at his now alive brother and decided it didn't really matter. All that mattered was that he was here and now he could learn about his adventures and see if his dreams had panned out yet.

Chapter Text

Chapter 13: Betrayal

For nearly two decades the name Blackbeard had been floating around Paradise and the nearby islands. Fortunately or unfortunately, depending on who you talked to, nobody could describe the man to you. His wanted poster had no image. This was because the man never left a witness to his atrocities. Slavery wasn't beyond him. Rape, murder, deception and destruction weren't far from what he had done either. He left no man, woman or child to report his likeness. Some believed him to be something that the World Government had created to scare New World pirates, others believed him to be vengeful spirit that destroyed towns and ports; but there were those who knew the truth and the truth was Blackbeard was only an alias for the monster. His true identity was hidden, but not for much longer.

The sea knew the truth. The goddess within the depths had seen him do his atrocities, the killings, the murders and had heard the cries of the youngest of souls as he tore away their dreams. She couldn't do anything to help them. This, human was being protected by darkness itself. She knew, however, that someone would soon appear upon her waters who would destroy this monstrous creature. She had already felt him, the joyful spirit in two places at once. Impossible as it seemed. Once she had realized what was happening, that the second was in fact from a near future, she had felt some hope rise within her. Having ensured years ago that her red warrior would gain that fruit in order for the true barer to have it. Now she only had to wait. The chains that held her back cracked. Soon the drums would beat and the world would once more know the truth and not even Blackbeard would be able to hide from her mighty fury.

Sabo watched with mild amusement as his companions jaws dropped as they watched his little brother stuff his mouth full of meat. Makino just smiled gently like the guardian he remembered her being. With his memories once again fully intact he had been comparing them to the real thing when it came to the people who were important to him. His memories didn't do any of them justice.

"Luffy." The youth turned his head towards him. He still had a mouthful of food, so much so that he held a hand in front of his lips to stop anything from escaping. "Is Dadan still around?"

Swallowing everything he had in his mouth in one big gulp, both Koala and Lindbergh gasped in shock at this feat. "Yep!" He said with enthusiasm. "She's actually considered Queen of the bandits now that she brought the four mountain bandit gangs under her control." He smiled proudly. "She's stronger than she ever lets on."

Sabo chuckled. "I always assumed she was." He admitted as he finished his lunch by stuffing the sandwich into his mouth.

"Sabo don't try to imitate your brother!" Lindbergh panicked as his friend's cheeks puffed out at being filled with food.

Koala hit him. "Idiot! Luffy might be made of rubber but you're not!" Sabo sputtered a bit causing food bits to come out of his mouth. She suddenly grasped his cheeks and pulled them. "Sabo! Stop trying to impress your brother by being stupid!"

"Sorry Koala." He whined as she released his face.

Luffy was laughing his ass off. "Shishishi." He slowly calmed his laughter. "Sabo has always been like that! He use to challenge Ace and I to eating contests! I always won though!" He grinned happily at the last sentence. He loved having his brother back. It made his insides feel good. It was like being doused in cool water after a difficult fight. He couldn't wait for what would happen next.

Ace grinned up at the giant in front of him. The big guy was a friend of the Whitebeard pirates. Little Oars Jr was looking at the giant hat that Ace had made him. "So?" Ace questioned him. "Do you like it?"

Oars gave the tiny human a toothy grin before placing the had on his head. The Little Pirate crew cheered as their captain seemed to thoroughly enjoy his new gift from Ace. "I also have a request from you big guy."

Little Oars looked at him with annoyance. "What?" His voice was gravely, likely from misuse. It sounded like he gargled with rocks in his throat.

Ace scratched the back of his neck. "Well, you see I'm a big brother and I was hoping that a big guy like you wouldn't mind being my little brother's friend once he comes out onto the sea."

Oars burst out laughing. Of all the requests, this was one that would be the easiest. "Ace is my friend." Oars stated. "So will his little brother."

Relief flooded Ace's features. "THANK-YOU!" Ace yelled happily at the giant a big smile on his spreading across his face. It was then that his denden mushi began to ring on his hip.

"Yeah?" He answered it.

"ACE!" The denden yelled at him as it took on the callers face.

"Oh! Thatch!" He happily answered. The 4th division commander was one of his closest friends. The guy made the best foods that were just loaded with the best ingredients. "You need something?"

"Dude, you'll never guess what I found yesterday." The grin on the denden was huge.

"What did you find?" Ace was thing it was an exotic fruit or food that his friend wanted him to try.

"A damn devil fruit!"Ace's eyes widened at the revelation. "I looked it up. It's something called Yami Yami no Mi. The only thing that the devil fruit encyclopedia stated was that it had unknown powers and that it was unknown what type of devil fruit class it was. Only thing known was it possibly controlled darkness itself."

"Sounds dangerous." Ace muttered not want to make his friend feel bad about the devil fruit he had found. "Are you going to use it?"

Thatch sighed. "I don't know man. I've always wanted to be helpful to Pops other than making him and everyone food, but this thing could give me chance to be stronger for Pops; however I kind of think it's cursed."

Ace frowned at this. "Why?"

"I may have slept with it hidden under my bunk last night and couldn't sleep a wink." Thatch admitted. "Also it kind of feels…evil. I'm thinking of just selling it."

Ace chuckled. "I don't think a devil fruit can be cursed or inherently evil." He stated. "It's yours to do with. That's the rule. If you need help to make a decision go to Pops or Marco. They'll be happy to give you advice."Thatch was a bit hesitant to respond. Ace groaned as he realized why. "You haven't told them, have you?"

"No." was the quick reply.

"Why me?" Ace whined.

"You know more about these things." Thatch responded even quicker.

"Liar!" Ace accused him. There was a noise from the denden. "What was that?" Ace asked.

"The door." Thatch answered. "I heard voices. I didn't want them to hear this."

"Look, talk to Pops. He'll help you." Ace assured his friend and brother. "I've got to go."

"Hey Ace, where are you anyway?" Thatch inquired.

"I'm with Little Oars Jr." he answered with a grin. "Why?"

"Could I come out there and help you? I'm bored." Ace rolled his eyes at this.

"Maybe." Ace teased. "If you talk to Pops."

"Damn it Ace!" Thatch heard laughter from his young friend. "Fine." He groaned, garnering another chuckle.

"Call me afterwards and I'll come home to pick you up." Ace promised, his grin wider than it had been in a long time. He ended the call and looked up at Little Oars Jr. "What do you say to a bit of celebrating my friend?"

Oars smiled a truly happy smile. "We'll drink all night then."

"Name me a pirate who doesn't!" Ace laughed heartily.

Sighing as he rubbed the bridge of his nose, Thatch supposed the youngest of their group was right. He should've told Pops and Marco sooner. He didn't know why he had hoarded the fruit anyway. Lifting a bag from the box he was keeping close to himself, Thatch pulled the offending fruit out to inspect it. The dark purplish fruit was soft to the touch, even had a slight pleasant oder to it; almost smelt like a strawberry.

Thatch couldn't shake the feeling that the fruit was evil though. It felt like he was starring at a monstrous demon that was readying itself to devour him, both metaphorically and literally. He felt a shiver run down his spine. He never should've taken it from that stormy island that was shrouded in darkness. Standing, Thatch quickly made his way down the halls within the Moby Dick. He knew the twists and turns to and from his Pop's room and library.

This time of night the old man would be buried in another adventure as Marco read the books to him. It wasn't a well known thing, only a few commanders knew that their ole Pops hated reading but had demanded that each and every child of his knew how to read, write and spell anything and everything between A and Z. He personally had hated those lessons but had enjoyed the one on one time with Pops. So much so that he and Marco used to race each other to be the one to read to the old man.

Thatch hummed softly as he made the last turned towards the library almost bumping into someone at the same time. "Whoa! Sorry there-" he paused when he saw that it was Teach. "Damn sorry Teach. I didn't see you there."

"Hahaha." Teacher laughed. "I'm surprised you can! What's in the box?" Intently trying to figure out what was in it.

"Nothing for you." Thatch stated as he moved the box from his front to his side. "It's something for Pop to see."

"Oh? A new treat?" Teach asked grinning.

Teach's missing teeth causing Thatch to frown. When had Teach lost another tooth? He didn't know he'd been in any fights lately. "It's something." He stated having a feeling that he needed to keep the fruit a secret, at least from Teach. He then walked passed the other man. "However if you hurry there might still be boiled frosted cookies left in the galley." Another spine tingle laugh left the other man before the two parted ways.

Sighing, Thatch quickly rushed towards his Pop. He didn't even notice the dark eyes that were on him. He opened the door to the library to find Pop on the large couch listening to Marco reading the newest medical book he has come across. Both looked up as he entered the room.

"Thatch, what do you need yoi?" Marco inquired as he placed the book to his side.

"I found something and wanted to show Pop." He stated as he held up the box with both hands trying to look excited about it.

Marco was unimpressed. "Oi." He sounded annoyed. "Congratulations. You found a box."

"Oh? Did the birdie say a joke?" Thatch tease.

"…." Marco gave him a deadpan look of being most unimpressed by the annoying nickname.

"Gurarararaaa." Newgate laughed at his sons. The two had always teased each other mercilessly through the ages. He always found it hilarious how his two strong sons would challenge each other. Calming his laughter, he continued to grin. "Son, what's in the box?"

Thatch quickly opened to box and pulled the fruit out of both bag and box. The purple fruit with its spikes and swirls made all who looked upon it know what exactly it was.

Marco stood quickly, crossed the room and examined the fruit. "Where did you find that, yoi?" He was excited for his brother. It had been years since someone had come across a devil fruit.

Thatch grinned. "Storm Island." He answered. "Last week I heard people at that small port talking about some strange fruits from there. So I went to the island thinking I'd find an exotic fruit to add to our diets." He placed the fruit back in the bag. "However, now that I have it, I don't want it."

"Huh?" Marco looked at his brother with a confused look. "Why?"

"Don't laugh at me." Thatch made them promise, gaining a nod from both he continued. "It feels.." He rubbed the back of his neck once more. "well, evil."

Neither man spoke for a moment. "Son, what do you want to do with it then?"

"Sell it." Thatch then shrugged. "Bury it? Burn it? I don't know Pop." He paced in front of the doorway. "I just want it far from me."

Suddenly blood exploded from Thatch's arm as the right appendage was cut from his body. A hand from the dark hallway behind him suddenly snatched the falling sack that held the fruit in it before it even touched the ground. Blood splashed and sprayed onto the ground, carpeting, books and pictures on the wall as Thatcher screamed and fell to his left side onto the ground.

"Zehahaha!" The deep rumble laughter that all three men knew and it caused their hearts to squeeze at. "Then I'll take it dear brother!"

"Teach!" Marco yelled as his flames lit up on his body.

Teach began hightailing it down the halls. Marco almost followed, almost. Whitebeard grasped his son by his shoulder. "Tend to your brother." He looked off down the dark hall. "I'll deal with the traitor." With those words Whitebeard tore after Teach, not caring that as he rushed after the traitor that he was destroying doorways in order to catch the offender.

Chapter Text

Chapter 14: To Stop a Monster

Marshall D. Teach couldn’t believe his luck. The cook of all people was the one to find the devil fruit; his devil fruit. He had been searching for years for this fruit. He had known that this fruit existed when had heard a few pirates talking about it as a young kid. After hearing of its capabilities he had known that he was destined for it. Now he had it in hand and he would use it to create a new age and become the one that Roger had spoken about years ago. The one who would topple the government and bring a new era into existence. First though he had to escape this damn ship!

The thundering stomps of a beast coming after him caught his attention. Gazing over his shoulder, Teach saw old man Whitebeard tearing through the ship halls. His shoulders breaking doorways that happened to be in his path. “TEACH!!!” Edward Newgates voice echoed through the hall. His Pops voice was angry and hurt. Suddenly a power slammed into him, conquerors haki. It made his spine tingle as the full force hit him and threw him up and out of the ship’s entrance onto the top deck. Teach tumble onto the deck. Lifting his head he found himself facing two the top five commanders of the Whitebeard pirates.

Former brothers now, the commanders had been told by Marco to keep an eye on Teach and if they felt either Marco’s or their Pops haki to know that Teach had indeed betrayed them.

The big, very muscular, broad-chested, heavily-armored and dark-skinned man, one could call a giant, stood before Teach. He had a long face with black stripe-like patterns for a beard and hairstyle. His legs are relatively thin in comparison to his muscular arms. The impassable form of the third division commander Diamond Jozu.

Standing next to him was a tall, muscular, broad-chested, tanned man with a curly, black mustache, a dark blue top hat, and an earring in each ear. On his hips was a belt that held two sword sheaths, two sabers, one for each hand. The fifth divion commander of the Whitebeard pirates, Vista of the Flower Swords.

Only two. He could take them on easily or so he thought. However, he had to act quickly. “Zehahaha.” He laughed. Placing the fruit in his chest pocket, Teach rushed at Vista first, as he was the closest. He supposed he was lucky it was only these two and not all the commanders that had showed up. The feeling of doom suddenly filled him as Whitebeard slammed his fist into the air causing the air itself to crack as he activated his devil fruit. Both Jozu and Vista looked panicked as the deck of the ship cracked, the wooden board bending unnaturally before breaking. Even if it was a small section of the ship it still would take days to repair after this fight.

“You think attacking your brother will go unpunished you impudent boy!?” Newgate yelled. At this moment he wasn’t Teach’s Pops, he was Edward Newgate - Whitebeard the captain and father of the man Teach had attacked. “All of this over a devil fruit! One that was your brother’s by right!” He swung his naginata, Murakumogiri, narrowly missing Teach’s head.

Activating is devil fruit, Jozu turned his body into diamond before actively slamming his body into Teach who grasped at the diamond infused body of his former brother. This was bad. He had not expected the fight against his brothers and father. Just then from behind Vista slash his saber blades down the middle of Teach’s back.

Gasping in pain, Teach grasped his pistol and got a single shot off towards Vista who was instantly protected by Jozu and his diamond body shield. The bullet bounced off him. Vista jumped over Jozu and with a swipe of his saber swords in an X pattern came down upon Teach’s chest, cutting into him. Jozu used his speed to once more body slam into the traitor.

Teach realized now that he had miscalculated his own strength against them. He had thought by taking out Thatch like he did that Pops and a Marco would be too busy trying to save the weakling which meant he’d escape. Even if one or two of his brothers had attacked he had estimated he could fight them off. Perhaps not eating the fruit when he had the chance had been the flaw in the plan. He should’ve eaten it the second he had taken it. Now he couldn’t afford a second to reach into his pocket and swallow the damn thing!

In his peripheral vision he saw Whitebeard swing his naginata downward again before he could move from above fire slammed into him as a clawed foot grasped his head and pulled him upwards. “You’re a fool to think we’d ever let this happen and not retaliate, yoi!” Marco snarled as his fury was on full display. His Phoenix form flashed wildly in anger. The flames from his power exploded from where he had Teach gasped on his head with his talons. The flames shot downward engulfing Teach from head to toe in burning flames. Burning him alive.

If the chase through the ship hadn’t caught any attention the screams of Teach burning did. The other Commanders and lower ranked individuals came out of the ship like a rat nest being disturbed. They watched in horror as Teach’s head was taken off by their Pops. His blade coming down on his head, beheading him like the traitor he was.

Marco allowed his power to dissolve away, though his eyes still flowed from his anger, his flames lightly dusting his shoulders and hair. Pressing a hand to his head he looked towards his Pop. “Oi, you need to tell them now Pop.” he stated as he picked up the head. He could see the panic in the younger men, even some of the seasoned commanders.

Old eyes looked weary and sad at his eldest son, the one who had been with him the longest. He knew his boy was right, he just wished tonight hadn’t happened. “Your brother became a traitor tonight.” He stated with a deep sadness in his voice. “Several weeks ago we were warned by Ace’s brother that Teach was no who he pretended to be. This was not the first time I had been told this.” That statement had Marco’s head snap towards him, his eyes widening at the revelation. “I didn’t want to be either warnings were true; however, the last warning had Marco and I taking precautions in case the rumors were true.” He took a shaky breath, as his heart was pained from having to kill one of his sons. “Your brother Thatch found a devil fruit and instead of asking for it, Teach hatched a plan to kill his brother for it. Tonight he attacked your brother.” His heart grew heavy. He had rushed after the traitor and didn’t even know if his boy was alive or not. His thoughts going to memories of Thatch learning to bake to his rivalry with Marco to learn to read.

As if sensing his thoughts Marco continued. “Pop took after Teach and I took care of Thatch. He will live but has lost his right arm. He almost bled out but I was able to use my healing flames to seal the wound. He is in medbay unconscious with the nurses taking care of him.”

Whitebeard felt a weight on his shoulders being lifted with the news of his son being alive. “As you heard I took off after the traitor and was assisted by Commanders Vista and Jozu. The battle ended when Commander Marco came into the fight and burned Teach in order to distract him for me to finish him.”

Even if the death had been justifiable the group of men were still shaken. Never in the history of their group had one man tried to actually kill the other. Pop had never needed to enact justice. What was going to happen now?

Marco walked over to the body and search the pockets coming in contact with the object that had caused all of this. The unassuming devil fruit. Handed it over to his Pop, the old man looked at the fruit in his palm. He couldn’t believe something so stupid had caused all this damage and drama. He had a feeling this wasn’t over yet, that this fruit would cause more damage if they let it. “Once Thatch awakens, he will decide the fate of this fruit.” He turned it over in his palm. He could feel the dark tendrils of darkness coaxing him, tempting him with power. Perhaps if he was a lesser soul, he would be tempted to allow the fruit to become his, even if he hadn’t already eaten one.

Evil indeed.

Chapter Text

Chapter 15:  Aftermath

The World News Coo broke the news of the chaos that Marshal D. Teach had caused on the Moby Dick the very next day. From the attack on his brother Thatch to the retribution his brothers took upon him and his untimely death by the hands of his Pops for his traitorous actions. After the initial report another came out by noon with the news that Teach was the mysterious Blackbeard. With this claim came the eye witness testimonies from the now captain-less crew and within hours of this revelation, the once powerful Blackbeard pirate crew dissolved and vanished from the pirates scene.

Ace raced down the beach with the newspaper in hand before jumping onto the striker. The Little Pirates waving goodbye as he quickly hightailed it out of there. Upon reading the news he had felt his heart tighten. Thatch had been attacked by Teach. The warning from his brother’s future self had come true!  Teach turning traitor would be a shock to everyone onboard the Moby Dick, however the aftermath of this would rock the entirety of the Whitebeards and their allies. Ace had no choice, he had to return to the Moby Dick and see what was going to happen next.

Sabo looked at the words over and over again at the top of the News Coo newspaper. Marshal D. Teach dead from his own father and brothers hands. Holy shit! He thought as he read as to what had caused this. The second newspaper that had come at noon had claimed the man to be Blackbeard as well. This meant Teach had been living a double life for years. Makes you wonder what else the man was doing in his free time. He sighed. I should call Ace later to see if he’s alright.

He looked off into the distance and watched Luffy stretch and show off his abilities to Lindbergh and Koala. He grinned when Lindbergh strapped on his jet pack; an invention of his, and began flying around. This gained Luffy’s attention instantly. The younger teen began chasing the mink.

Koala looked exhausted as she sat next to Sabo. “Your brother has too much energy.” She laid against the blanket on the beach.

Sabo laughed. “Yeah, well he’s a D and a Monkey to boot.” He stated as if that was an explanation.

“Wait.” Koala promptly sat up. “A Monkey? He’s not related to-“

Sabo’s eyes widened at her train of thought. Dragon. “Well damn. That’s not something I thought of. I mean I know he’s Monkey D. Garps grandson, but his son!?” Sabo grinned. “That explains a bit.” Koala looked at him with a perplexed expression. “Luffy and Dragon both are very driven individuals. Protective those they consider theirs. However where Luffy would risk it all for that one friend, Dragon would sacrifice one for the many no matter his relationship with that individual.”

“Sometimes that’s what needs to be done though.” Koala stated with some Danes in her voice.

“Ahh!!” Lindbergh’s outcry caused the two friends to return their attention towards him and Luffy. Somehow Luffy had stretched himself out to where he could reach Lindbergh and had grasped the mink’s feet. “Just how far can you stretch!?”

“Shishishi!” Luffy laughed gleefully.

“Luffy!” Sabo yelled out causing the youth to look at his older brother. “I think it’s time we get you trained a little bit if you ever want to go up against the top dogs of the pirating world!”

Luffy released the mink before looking at Sabo a bit confused. “Am I not strong enough?” He inquired.

Sabo gave his little brother a grin. “Ever heard of Haki?” Luffy’s perplexed look of confusion was Sabo’s answer.

Grinning Luffy got right up into Sabo’s personal space. “What’s that!?” He asked excitedly.

“Haki is a power that allows people to use their spiritual energy to perform superhuman feats.” Koala answered instead. Luffy looked at her with excitement. “There are three types of Haki. Observation which has several layers to it include to sense the presence, strength, and emotions of others, that are far away. Tracking enemies or allies at a distance.” She then paused her explanation. “Though I’ve heard that there’s this one guy from the Charlotte Family who can predict people’s attacks with future sight which is a very advanced form of observation.”

Luffy’s eyes widened as his grin got even bigger. “Amazing!” He cried out.

Sabo grinned as well. “Then there’s Armament Haki. This allows a person to apply a coating to their body or weapons. It appears like a black armor.” He held out his arm which suddenly turned black. “This helps non-devil fruit users to have a better chance against those with devil fruit powers.” His arm then returned to normal. “However there are some Armament users that can manipulate the armament ability in order to emitted armament flow into a target's body and destroy it from the inside out.”

Luffy sat down in front of Sabo wanting to learn as much as he could from his brother. Scratching his head he couldn’t believe such people existed. “So they can kill people by focusing this energy into them?” He asked.

So he can pay attention. Sabo thought wryly. “Yes.”

Luffy counted his fingers. “You said there were three but only gave two.” He looked from his fingers to his brother. “What’s the third?”

“Conquerors Haki.” He sighed. “However this one is so rare that I don’t think I’ve ever encountered someone with it.”

“Conqueror's Haki can be used to intimidate people and animals, knock them out, and bend things to the user's will.“ Lindbergh stated as he hovered above the group. “Basically these users have a greater and stronger will than any other and can suppress or control the will’s of others around themselves.”

“Shishishi.” Luffy laughed loudly. “I’ve met somebody like that!” All three looked at his curiously.

“Who?” Sabo inquired.

“Shanks!” Luffy laughed even louder.

Sabo chuckled. Of course, he’d almost forgotten about the emperors relationship with his brother. “That’s right. You and Shanks promised to meet in the new world one day and have a fight.” Luffy chuckled as he took his hat off and played with the rim of the hat. “Shanks knows haki Lu. He will fight you with it.”

Luffy had the decency to look a bit scared and intimidated by this aspect. “I - okay. Maybe I can learn it.”

“Two out of three; yes.” Lindbergh stated as he held up two fingers. “Conquerors Haki is something people are born with, it can’t be taught.”

“Which means I’ll need to find you a teacher.” Sabo thought out loud.

“Why can’t you teach me, brother?” Luffy asked in all seriousness.

“I love you too much to hurt you.” Sabo admitted. “I’d be a terrible teacher.”

Clasping his hands together in prayer form, Luffy gave his best puppy eyes to his brother. “Please ‘Bo!” He begged.

“Eep!” Sabo cried out. He was surprised that his brother could not only still do that but have an effect on him. “No!” He yelled waving his arms and shaking his head at Luffy. “You won’t listen!”

“Yes I will!” He promised.

“Jeez.” Sabo groaned even as Luffy grinned knowing he had won this fight with his brother. “The first time you don’t listen-“ He began to warn.

“I know!” Luffy said. “I swear! I’ll listen!” He promised.

Sabo groaned, knowing very well that he was in for hell.

Chapter Text

Chapter 16: Training

Day 1

Luffy felt as if every bone in his body was jello now as he couldn’t move a muscle. He had tried dodging every one of Sabo’s attacks but couldn’t. Sabo was stronger than he ever was when they were kids. He and Sabo had begun their training with racing around whole island, around the jungle and through the Grey Terminal.

When noon came around Luffy was denied lunch unless he defeated Sabo in a hand to hand combat. This was an instant loss on Luffy’s part as he hadn’t protected his face or head. After this Sabo had nabbed his prized treasure from Shanks and claimed it until Luffy defeated him in another fight, this one with a weapon; he’d lost.

So here he was, a pile of human jello unable to move on the jungle floor. He still couldn’t believe how strong Sabo was. Yoosh! I will get stronger! He thought as a big smile crossed his face. I’ll get stronger than either Sabo or Ace! For now he’d just lay and allow himself to rest.

Ace jumped from the Striker to the top deck of the Moby Dick using his flames to push himself through the air. Landing perfectly on the deck he surprised a few of his brothers. “Ace!” Izou yelled out in surprise, the flamboyant samurai was extremely happy to see the youngest of their family.

“Ace!” Haruta cried out, truly surprised to see the younger man.

“ACE!” The rest of the crew on the top deck yelled out. Each and every man was happy to see the youth.

“Yo.” Ace waved at the men, a wide grin spreading across his face as he looked around at the group. “Heard what happened and thought I’d come see how Thatch was doing.”

“Humph.” Haruta snorted, the sound causing Izou to chuckle. “He’s being a big baby, that’s how he’s doing.” He crossed his arms over his chest as his face distorted into one of annoyance. “He’s been complaining daily of one thing or another.”

Ace grinned at this information. “Thank goodness he’s still the same.”

“He may have lost his arm but he is very much himself.” The new voice caused Ace to look over his shoulder to see the first mate, a.k.a. Marco. “Welcome back, yoi.” He and Ace clasped hands in a friendly manner.

“Thanks.” Ace rubbed the back of his neck. “How much trouble am I in?”

Marco pushed his glasses up his nose as a smile spread across his face. “Not too much.” He promised as he nodded for Ace to follow him. “Pop isn’t too upset since the warning from your brothers had us somewhat aware that something may happen.” He looked towards Ace as they began to go down below deck. “It also means Pop is taking the fallout a bit harshly as well. Teach was our brother for longer than you’ve been alive and Pop was forced to end him.” They stopped at their Pops room. “Don’t be too shocked by his disheveled appearance.”

As the door open Ace’s eyes widened. The old man had several dozen empty sake jugs lying on their sides, though that wasn’t much of a shocker. The dark circles under his eyes were. The clothes he wore were stained with blood, his face was pale and there was uneaten food on the side table next to him. Ace knew Pops wasn’t in the best health but he looked ragged. “Pop.” He said trying to keep his voice even and not whine like a child.

The old man put down his current jug he was drinking from down. “Son?” He questioned that he was truly seeing Ace before him. In the months since his youngest had left, they have only spoken twice on the denden mushi. “Ace has something happened?”

His question threw Ace off as Marco shook his head. “No Pop. I came to you because of Teach’s deception.” He stepped forward. “I thought I’d come and make you were okay and that Thatch would live.”

The old man smiled softly. He knew that Ace may show the world that he was tough, but he knew his youngest was a gentle person by nature. “I will be alright son. I am only mourning.” He sat up the best he could without dislodging the medical i.v. that Marco had put into his body to make it easier to get the medication into his system. He sighed sadly. “I am mourning the lives that boy destroyed. I am mourning the pain my son has felt in losing his arm.” He growled angrily at the empty bottle in his hand. “I am angry at myself for being fooled by that man and taking him in as my son.” His eyes scanned Ace. “Had your brother not warned us and had I not had set things into place to protect everyone, we may have had a war amongst ourselves.” He placed a hand over his eyes in grief. “We owe your brothers a debt of gratitude for their actions.”

“I agree, yoi.” Marco stated. “I for one can’t wait to see the trouble that younger brother is going to bring to the sea once he comes out.”

“Gararara!” Whitebeard laughed. “A warning from the future and he hasn’t even begun his journey now. Your little brother just might be a bigger troublemaker than Gol D. Roger!”

Marco chuckled at Ace’s shocked look. “It’ll be an interesting wait, yoi.”

“What do we do now?” Ace inquired. He was still shocked that his Pops said he owed Luffy.

“We do what we’ve been doing.” Whitebeard stated. “Once I’m done mourning, we will call a meeting of the commanders and then we will reassure our allies and begin to assess the damage that boy has done.” The two nodded in agreement. “Go. Deal with Thatch. Help him regain his sense of self and reassure him that he is still my son and that he is needed.” With those words the two sons left their Pops to check on their injured brother.

Day 6

Luffy was all happy today. He and Sabo had trained for a week and today he had managed to snag back his strawhat and place it back on his head. Still though, Luffy growled lowly, glaring at his arm as it darkened with armament for less than two minutes, before dispersing just as fast. He needed to make his newly acquired ability to last longer. He needed to get stronger in order for him to be able to protect his future crew.

Luffy turned towards King Tiger and grinned. Just beyond the tree line Sabo watched as his little brother went toe to toe with the monstrous beast that he remembered from his past. King Tiger. He couldn’t believe the beast was still alive after all these years. The orange and black striped tiger was just as huge and imposing as ever.

Luffy’s gum gum pistol connected with the tigers face and chest, Sabo saw him coat his fists with armament haki. He’s learned to do that so quickly. He blanched. It took me six months to learn that technique!

The tiger snarled in pain and annoyance. It seemed the beast was suddenly interested in Luffy as a possible threat now. It then jumped at Luffy who barely dodged the beast once again. Luffy ran at the creature in a zig zag pattern. The beast extended its claws to strike Luffy when suddenly the teen glared at the beast. The glare caused the Tiger King to falter, this falter causing Sabo to straighten himself. Did Luffy just- He stopped himself in his thoughts with a shake of his head. No. No. No. I’m just imagining that.

Luffy looked at the tiger confused. He hadn’t done anything, just glare at the beast and it had taken several steps away from him. Grasping a handhold from two trees, Luffy pulled himself backwards like a slingshot and then retracted his hands, letting himself become a projectile. Throwing himself high into the air at high speeds. “Gomu Gomu no Rocket!” Was yelled out as the boy slingshot himself into the air before he twisted his body around as he begun to descend back to the ground. “Gomu Gomu no Hammer!” He outstretched his legs downwards and using the momentum of falling downward he slammed his feet into Tiger King’s head.

Sabo facepalmed. Does he really think he can gong a tiger! Watching Luffy jump back and land safely, Sabo watched the Tiger King take one step and then another before it’s body fell face forward unconscious. Sabo felt his jaw drop in shock. I guess he can. Sabo grinned. Perhaps he’s stronger than I’ve given him credit for. He sighed happily. It felt like a weight lifting from his shoulders. Guess it’s time to go on to lesson B.

Day 30

Sabo slammed the spiked club into the ground as Luffy dodged the attack perfectly. His little brother’s observation was coming along nicely. Luffy’s eyes were covered with a blindfold as Sabo attacked him with a club. So far Luffy had only messed up once. The egg on his head proved that he needed to continue working on his training. However, over the last month of training he had noticed that his little brother seemed to have latent ability. It was possibly Conquerors and he didn’t know how to train that. His Armament was coming along, as he could now last up to five minutes with it but after those five minutes he needed to rest.

Swinging the club again, Sabo changed the trajectory mid swing and went for Luffy’s middle onto for his brother to dodge it perfectly. The rubber teen held his hands up to prepare for the next attack. Pulling his favorite pipe weapon from his back, Sabo threw the club before rushing forward towards Luffy, jumping as Luffy dodged the club. As he swung downward towards Luffy’s head suddenly his brother grasp the weapon in mid swing before flinging Sabo to the side. Sabo grunted as he landed hard on his side on the ground. His blue tunic now torn from the ground debris. Looking up at Luffy, Sabo realized that there wasn’t anything else he could teach him about haki and it would be up to Luffy himself as to how strong he’d become with it. I’ve given him the tools, it’s up to him to train with what I’ve taught him now.

Standing up Sabo dusted off the dirt from his clothes. “Luffy, take off the blindfold.” The teen did as he was told. “I think we’re done here.”

Luffy’s eyes widened. “Did I do something wrong!?” He asked dropping the pipe that was still in his hand. “I can do better!”

Sabo held his hands up and gently placed them on Luffy’s shoulders. “You did fine. Better than fine; great!” His smile was full of pride for his brother’s accomplishments. “You’ve far surpassed anything that I can teach you now.” He released Luffy. “If you continue with your training, you’ll surely surpass even the likes of Whitebeard. However, I’ve been noticing something else. I think you’re developing Conquerors Haki and I don’t know how to teach you how to use it properly.”

Luffy looked at his fist. “So I’ll need another teacher?” He asked a bit saddened by the thought of being taught by someone other than his brother. The past month had been the best time he’d had in a long time. He had learned how to use this haki that his brother was teaching but also had learned so much about Sabo, about the revolutionaries and the world government. Sabo talked a lot about that last one. “Who can teach me?”

Sabo shook his head. “I don’t know anyone personally who uses conquerors haki. You may find someone once you begin your own journey.”

Luffy grinned at that. “Shishishi.” He laughed before looking up at his brother. “I bet they’ll be strong.”

No doubt. Sabo it thought grimly.

“BRAT!” Gnarly yell was heard causing a shiver to run up Sabo’s spine as the memories of the owner of said voice came forward. “WHAT THE HECK HAVE YOU BEEN-“ The owner of the voice paused in their tirade. “D-Doing?” Sabo turned in time to see Curly Haired Dadan drop her spiked club to the ground. Her eyes going wide as she took his form in. “Y-You died.” She took a step forward.

Luffy giggled. “Sabo didn’t die after all Dadan. He just got misplaced because he had an-amanisia.”

“It’s amnesia Lu-“ Sabo began but was interrupted when he was suddenly crushed against the large mountain bandit lady’s chest.

“Dogra said you died boy!” She half yelled half cried. Tears of joy were running like rivers down her cheeks.

Sabo now wished he had gone to see her sooner. Oh she going to kill me once Lu tells her how long I’ve been on the island. He already knew he was going to be dodging her attacks like he had done as a kid, but first. As soon as she released him, Sabo bowed to her. “I’M SORRY FOR MAKING YOU WORRY!” He yelled out at her, hoping his apology would calm her soon-to-be rage.

“Tch.” She snorted. “Damn brat.” She turned away from him to blow her nose. “Damn allergies!” She cried a little more.

Luffy snickered at Sabo as he just smiled softly at his once guardian and the memories he had of her.

Chapter Text

Chapter 17: Bounce Back

After leaving his brother in Wano and presumably returning to his original timeline, Luffy found himself instead being pulled in several different ways. In one way he was being pulled towards something that made his skin crawl. In another pure joy was pulling him towards it. Truthfully Luffy was curious about both and didn’t know which way would lead him home. The feeling of pure joy won out between the two and thus Luffy was flung towards it. The white wispy clouds surrounding him protected Luffy in this form as he broke through into another timeline different from his. This time Luffy could feel the difference between timelines. This one felt older, way older than where he was from.

“It’s about time you showed up brat.” The voice was deep and smooth behind him.

Upon turning around Luffy was forced to look up. The man wore a similar strawhat to his only bigger and his was torn and missing a small piece to it. The man was somewhat a giant. Bigger than Luffy but smaller than the giants from Little Garden, perhaps the size of old man Whitebeard. Luffy decided this man was definitely the size of his brother’s old captain. “Shishishi.” Luffy laughed lightly. “I’ve never met you before.”

“Of course not.” The giant stated. “You were not ready. You hadn’t awakened your fruit to its fullest extent.”

Luffy cocked his head at the man. “Who are you?” He asked. “How do you know about my fruit.”

The man grinned when suddenly his black hair and beard suddenly began to bleed white. His clothes changing from dirty ones to  ethereal like as they too turned white. The giant grinned widely. “Like you I too ate the same fruit as you but it goes by another name.” Luffy cocked his head in confusion. “You know if by the Gomu Gomu no Mi. I know it by its original name. Hito Hito no Mi, Model: Nika.”

“Nika.” Luffy repeated at he brought his hand up and looked at it. He recalled Robin talking about that person while they had been leaving Skypia.

“It is classified as a Mythical Zoan-type fruit that allows one to transform into the legendary god Nika.” the giant explained as he looked at the billowing clouds around himself and Luffy’s bodies.

“Why do I need to know this?” Luffy asked. “You haven’t even told me who you are.” He frowned. “For all I know you are a new enemy trying to confuse me.” He glared at the man, his haki simmering under the surface. “What do you want?”

The man chuckled again, loving the energy coming off of his successor. The boy was strong, perhaps even stronger than himself in some ways. Perhaps the generation this boy came from would be the ones to stop the coming darkness and the monsters within the world government.  “What I want is for the world government to stop pressing its will upon the people. For the people to be free to become what they dream of. I want my family to be free to choose their path in life! I want my friends to be able to go after their dreams and achieve them!” He leaned forward closer to Luffy. “I want freedom for all who want, dream or wish for it.”Luffy’s eyes were wide as he realized that this man’s dream was very close to his. “What do you want?”

Luffy laughed lightly. “Shishishi.” He looked into the giants eyes. “I want to be the King of the Pirates!”

“And how will you rule them?”

Luffy’s laughter gained volume. “Being King doesn’t mean ruling people or the sea or anything like that. It means I’m the free-ist person alive and that I can do anything.”

“Baaahaha!” The giant laughed loudly, Luffy joining him in his joyful laughter. “Boy, I wish I could journey with you! Your adventure surely is just getting interesting!”

“Yes! It is!” Luffy agreed. “I only just brought down Kaidou, the King of Beasts! He was terrorizing Wano! Before that I fought Big Mom, ‘Mingo and-“

“Whoa!” The giant held his hand out. “You don’t have to tell me. I can already tell. The fruit only would have awakened once you have gone through several life altering battles.” He stood up from his constant squat in front of the boy. “Mine awoke when I was betrayed by a crewmate that I considered family.” He looked off in the distance pain in his eyes from the pain of that day. “I failed to destroy that person before they became a threat and now from time to yourself they have done everything in their power to destroy my legacy.” He noticed Luffy picking his nose acting as if he wasn’t paying attention and chuckled. “I know this is boring to you now, but one day soon we will meet again. It will be that day that we fight side by side.”

Luffy raised a brow. “Will you force me to fight as your subordinate?” He asked sounding annoyed.

“Never.”

Luffy grinned. “Then I’ll look forward to that day and perhaps we can have a friendly duel afterwards.” The giant laughed at this. Suddenly Luffy felt the all familiar pull again.

“Oh and as for my name.” The giant looked at the floating boy in front of him knowing he was close to leaving.“History calls me one name as my crew knows me by another. Joyboy is the title the world has bestowed upon me.” He grinned as Luffy began to disappear meaning he was returning home. “My name is Monkey D.-“

Luffy’s eyes burst opened he found himself lying on a futon with a warm blanket covering his body. His stomach rumbled loudly. The memories of the night before rushed through his mind. From seeing Ace to the JoyBoy he had heard Robin talk about obsessively. Next to him he could sense Zoro’s energy. His friend was waking up as well.

Sitting up Luffy decided he wanted one thing first and foremost. “I WANT MEAT!”

“AND BOOZE!” Zoro yelled out as the servants who had been waiting for them to awaken ran off to tell the master that his friends were awake and hungry. There would be a celebration later for the hero pirates that had saved a country from two dictators but for now Luffy just needed his hunger satisfied.

Chapter Text

Chapter 18: Forthcoming Fate

Sabo looked at the new wanted poster in his hand. The bold letters of Monkey D. Luffy running across the bottom of the poster. The smile of his little brother, grinning like an idiot. It was all perfect. 30,000,000 beri. In large bold print. This meant that after defeating Arlong, Buggy, and Don Krieg, three of the most feared pirates in East Blue, the Marines and the Wold Government saw his baby brother as a true threat.

Still Sabo thought the bounty was too small, especially since his brother was stronger than most from the East Blue. Unless he’s tempering his strength as to not draw attention to himself. Sabo thought for a moment. No. Luffy’s smart but not that smart to plan that far ahead. He scratched his head before picking up a denden mushi.

The snail face changed from normal to that of Ace’s. “Yeah?”

“Please tell me you got the new bounty poster?” Sabo questioned his brother.

“Actually I just put it on the wall.” He stated as he looked at his collection. One was his, then Sabo’s and now Luffy’s. “Did you see yours went up to 600,000,000 beri ?”

“Did you see yours is the same as last month?” Sabo teased.

“Tch.” Came the irritated response. “It’ll go up.” He said with confidence.

“Where are your people?” Sabo asked. “I thought they were keeping an eye on him?”

“They are.” Ace assured him. “Deuce says they just left Little Garden and that some group called Baroque Works tried recruiting his first mate Roronoa Zoro.”

Sabo stood up quickly from his position at the table. “Did you say Baroque Works?” He asked suddenly as his hands flew over the paperwork that he had piled on the desk. He swore he’d just read something on that group.

“Yeah.” Ace said as he turned towards the denden. “Why?” He inquired slowly as he hoped nothing was too bad about the group.

“I just read about that group and their activities.” Sabo explained as he found the report. “I knew it. The group might not cause him too many problems but there might be a possible connection to one of the Warlords; Crocodile.”

“Uh.” Ace paused in his movements. “I think that guy use to be one of Pop’s friends until they had a falling out.”

“Do I want to know what happened?” Sabo inquired.

Ace scratched the back of his head trying to remember the story Thatch told him. “Err…Something about the group being stuck in the Calm Belt and pops decided to use Crocodile as a bait hook to catch lunch one time.” Ace chuckled. “I guess the guy holds a huge grudge now and swore to kill Pop one day.”

Sabo chuckled. “I’m sure there’s more to that story.”

“Probably.” Ace admitted he hadn’t really been listening to Thatch’s story.

“What else?” Sabo asked, hoping he had something he could help Luffy with.

Ace pushed his pile of papers to the side as he looked over the paperwork that Masked Deuce had given him when they had met up two days ago. “Oh!” He stated as he picked up the picture of the blue haired girl. “Ever heard of someone called Princess Vivi? She’s apparently with Luffy.”

“Vivi?” Sabo asked getting an affirmation from Ace. “She’s the heir of the Alabasta Kingdom!”

Ace’s jaw dropped. “So she’s a literal Princess!?” Only their brother would find and become friends with a literal Princess.

“You thought she was some sort of a Pirate Princess.” Sabo assesed.

“Yeah.” Ace chuckled. “Maybe we could meet him in Alabasta and help him.”

“Sounds like a plan.” Sabo began looking for his pipe and satchel. “Koala and I could be there by the end of the week.”

“Same.” Ace grasped his gun and dagger, placing them in their spots on his body in case he needed them.

Once the two found their stuff and said their goodbyes, they began their way to join their brother and surprise him. Neither realizing that the wheels of fate were once again spinning and soon the strings of destiny would twist to bring forth the fate of one or both of the brothers.

“GAAARRRP!!!” The loud yells of Fleet Admiral Sengoku could be heard from one side of the Marine base to the other as he slammed his foot into the door of Vice Admiral Garp’s office. The one being yelled at paid no mind to his oldest friend in his life as he ate his favorite crackers nonchalantly; this only infuriated the Fleet Admiral. “Your grandson is up to no good out in the East Blue and all you can do is eat!?” He threw the newspaper at Garp.

Having said paper thrown into his face the words Monkey D. Luffy were printed out in big bold letters. “Huh?” He questioned as he read the supposed ill works of his grandson. The boy having taken out Arlong was something even the marines in the East had, had problems doing. Finding the news boring he threw it to the floor and laughed. “Kyahahaha!!! That boy hasn’t done anything that our Marines shouldn’t have been doing and you know that.” He gasped when his friend took his crackers from him.

“That’s beside the point!” Sengoku growled lightly eating a few of the crackers much to Garps dismay.

“Tch.” Garp sounded a bit irritated. “Fine. I’ll go after him. After he’s actually done something!”

“He’s not the only one!” Sengoku slammed two wanted posters down, one of Sabo and the other of Ace. “I know you’ve tried protecting these two but you can’t anymore, not with their bounties pushing past 500,000,000 beri!”

“I find it interesting how you love pointing out my grandchildren and their problems but hate it when I bring up yours.” Standing up Garp snagged his crackers back. “I’ll handle my family when you get a handle on yours.” Garp began walking out of the room and down the hall towards the recruits. Looking over the recruit barracks he saw the two boys that had been brought to him a few weeks prior. One was Helmeppo and other a pink haired boy named Koby. Watching from his position he saw Bogard was training the boys hard.   He had a feeling these two were going to become the best marines he’s ever trained.

He knew that Sengoku was right. His grandkids were out of line and needed to be brown a level or two. Taking on Ace; however would mean upsetting old man Whitebeard. Though he wasn’t scared of Edward Newgate, he didn’t want a war with the old man. Going against Sabo might upset Dragon but he doubted his son would do anything against him. Luffy would be the easiest of the three. He was a rookie who didn’t know the rules of the ocean yet and he might still stand a chance at swaying him to become a marine yet. So Luffy it was.

Sabo felt the instant heat coming off the ground and from the sky. The heat was worse than the hottest day on Dawn. It wasn’t a sticky miserable heat, instead a dry heat that forced the moisture out of your body. Oh this was going to be fun. He thought sarcastically. Now he understood why Koala said no to coming with him. That was fine. As Chief of Staff he could travel without anyone keeping track of his movements.

The port town of Nanohana in Alabasta was a small dusty town with a limited Marine presence. Approaching the only restaurant in town Sabo saw Ace talking to another person. Stepping inside he pressed himself to the was but grasped his pipe in case Ace needed a back up.

“So what do you want from me now?” Ace asked sounding annoyed by the light haired man smoking two cigars at once in his mouth.

“I would like it if you came with me quietly.” The man stated as he grasped a pipe from his back.

Sabo’s eyes widened as he caught the glint of the metal from the pipe. Sea stone! He thought panicked a bit. Ace couldn’t be near that. It would truly hurt his brother.

“No thanks.” Ace stated as he leaned against the restaurant bar. “I think I’ll pass.”

“Yeah. I figured you’d say that.” The man grumbled. “I’m here in Alabasta trying to hunt down another pirate at the moment. To be honest I really have no interest in capturing you right now.”

Ace shrugged. “Then look the other way.” Aces eyes met Sabo’s. This guy wasn’t going to let Ace go without a fight and there were just too many civilians around for Ace to actually fight properly.

“I’m afraid I just can’t do that.” The man sighed a bit annoyed that he’d come across Ace when he was actually after that other guy. “Not as long as I’m a marine and you’re apart of a notorious pirate crew.”

The man suddenly activated his devil fruit causing smoke to float out of his body. A devil fruit user using a sea stone weapon? Sabo thought both impressed and little worried. How strong was this guy?

“Now that’s not much of reason, now is it?” Ace lifted his visage to show how annoyed he was. “How about I give you a real reason?”

The air in the room began to thinker with tension. Sabo grasped his pipe tightly ready to push off the wall and help Ace with this unknown marine pirate hunter. When he heard Luffy’s voice. “GIVE ME SOME FOOD!!!” A moment later Sabo heard. “GUMU GOMU no ROCKET!!”

Suddenly chaos was brought onto the restaurant as Luffy’s body came rushing into the building. His body crashing into the marine pirate hunter, which was thrown forward into Ace’s, who couldn’t move quick enough. It was like watching a train crash as both Aces and the hunters bodies were thrown through the bar, through the building wall, the next buildings walls and the third buildings wall as well.

Sabo’s jaw dropped at the destruction from one messily attack as Luffy acted like nothing had happened and began eating what Sabo presumed was the rest of Ace’s dinner. The other customers all gasped at the audacity of the young man. Sabo covered his mouth with his hand as he began laughing. Ace, their logia power based brother who was so proud of his ability, had been defeated by their little brother with one attack. His laughter came out in snickers and snorts causing the inhabitants to turn to look at him, including Luffy who paused in stuffing his face.

“Hey Sabo, what are you doing here?” Luffy asked in mid bite before grabbing a chicken leg and putting it in his mouth.

Sabo laughed harder. “Do you have any idea who you just attacked?”

Luffy tipped his head to the side. “I attacked someone?”

“YES!” Sabo pointed to the hole in the wall as Ace came out of it looking pissed. “ACE!”

Ace looked towards Sabo before his gaze turned towards Luffy. “Lu-“ A fist slammed down onto his head.

“Who the fuck has the damn nerve to-“ The hunter began when his eyes landed on Luffy. “STRAWHAT!”

Luffy had once again begun stuffing his mouth totally ignoring the man in front of him for several seconds before spewing the contents of his mouth at the man in front of him. “SMOKEY!!” Luffy yelled in surprise. “What are you doing here!” He held some food in his hands, the need to eat still forcing him to want to eat. So deciding that running was a safer bet, just as Smoker was about to say something. “Wait!” Luffy yelled as he grabbed everything off the table and stuffed it all in his mouth. “Tha-ou!” Was all that was heard as the teen turned tail and ran.

“Hey!” Smoker yelled after him as he ran after Luffy, totally not seeing Sabo who was still laughing inside at the events that had just transpired.

Placing a purse of money on the bar table, Sabo bowed towards the restaurant owner. “I apologize for my brothers they can be quite destructive without meaning to be.” He then walked over to the still unconscious Ace, his narcolepsy obviously hitting him hard in the middle of all the excitement. I’ll have to remind him later that he needs to change the dosage of the meds Marco is giving him for these attacks. He thought as he poured some water on his brother’s head.

Ace lifted his face from the rubble and looked at Sabo. “Uh..” he muttered as his focus returned to who was in front of him. “Hey ‘Bo.” He greeted his brother.

Sabo held his hand out to him. “Come on, Luffy needs us.” Ace groaned as Sabo helped him up. “You chase after them and I’ll come up behind.”

Ace pick up his ostentatious orange had from the ground. “Yeah. Yeah. The bumbling little brother needs his bigger ones to help him.”

“I don’t know why he’s not fighting the guy.” Sabo groaned as he ran after Smoker.

“He’s a smoke type logia. I think you’re the only one who could without any problems.” Sabo explained.

“Well, that makes sense.” The two went separate ways after that. When Ace saw Smoker about to attack Luffy, he slid in between the two, lighting up with his flame flame fruit. “I think we were in the middle of something smoke man.”

“ACE!!” Luffy cried out excitedly.

“Luffy you know this guy?” The green haired man asked as Sabo came up behind them.

“Of course he does.” Sabo stated gaining the group’s attention.

“Sabo!” Luffy yelled equally excitedly to see his other brother.

“Who are these guys?” The tiny animal asked.

“They’re my brothers!” Luffy stated loudly.

“‘Bo! Get them out of here!” Ace yelled as he turned his attention to Smoker and his people. “Fire Fist!” Ace yelled out as he thrust his fist at the approaching marines causing Smoker to step in front of the flames, his smoke ability negating the attack. Likewise when he attacked Ace, his ability was negated as well.

Meanwhile Sabo led Luffy’s group to the port where their ship was waiting for them. As they took off Sabo noticed something. “Where’s Lu?”

The reddish orange haired girl suddenly facepalmed. “That idiot!”

“Well we can’t turn around now.” The blonde man stated. “So you’re his older brother?” He asked looking annoyed at this discovery.

Sabo felt something change about this man, he was becoming defensive. He noted how he was placing himself between Sabo and the young women. Taking his top hat off, Sabo bowed to them. “I apologize. My name is Portgas D. Sabo. Ace is my twin and the eldest out of the three of us.” He smiled at the group. “Thank-you for taking care of my little brother. I know he can be a bit of a handful but do continue to take care of him for us!”

“It’s no problem.” They stated unison.

A few moments later Luffy’s rubbery hand grasped the ship’s main mast before his body snapped from land to the ship. He landed between the two girls. “Hi Sabo!” Luffy yelled between the two girls.

“Don’t do that!” The red/orange haired girl screamed at him. “You could’ve startled Vivi!” She continued as she grabbed Luffy’s face and begun pulling it this way and that as she vented her anger upon him.

“Sowrry Nawmi.” He tried apologizing but his face and lips were now swollen from getting beaten up by her.

“Ah!” The small animal yelled out. “Nami stop! He only just healed!”

Nami glared at the animal. “Chopper! Watch out! She’ll kill you too!” The dark haired teen yelled.

“Ah!” Chopper screamed as Nami whose glare could send an admiral running turned her attention on the poor animal. “Usopp! She’s got me in her sights!” The animal jumped onto the dark haired teens back who backed away from Nami quickly as the rest of the crew took several steps away from him.

The green haired man laughed causing the girl to turn her irritation towards him. “Zoro! You were supposed to keep an eye on him!”

“That’s like the blind leading the blind.” The blonde stated finally relaxing near Sabo.

“Huh?” Zoro asked as his eye twitched at this statement. “What did you say Shitty Cook?”

The blonde growled. “Who are you calling a shitty cook you damn monkey brain?”

The two looked to be about to fight when the blue haired girl stepped between them. “Sanji, Zoro please don’t fight.” She begged them.

“Anything for you, Vivi-swan!” Sanji responded with hearts in his eyes. Zoro rolled his eyes at the cooks response.

Laughter caught their attention. “You seem like a fun bunch.” Ace sat squating on the edge of the ship. “Luf, your friends seem like fun.”

Luffy who was still being choked by Nami grinned and laughed the best he could. “Ain’t they neat?!” The two brothers chuckled at the younger brother and his crew as the introductions began once more.  The day wore on as they made their way towards the next port and hopefully finding a way to save Alabasta.

Chapter Text

Chapter 19: Desert Heat

A pillar of smoke climbed high into the sky as the pirates and runaway Princess continued their journey through the desert.“You’ve got to admit you were showing off a bit back there.” Sabo grumbled as Ace grinned.

Ace knew he had shit eating grin on his face. “Jealous little brother?” He teased as he pushed his hat up to look at his brother. “Besides they obviously were working for Crocodile.”

“Jealous? Of what? You turning into the human torch and burning everything away?” He inquired sounding annoyed. “Or the fact you still pass out in the middle of a fight?”Just a few moments ago their group had come in contact with a bunch of bandits. After sailing up the coast to the next town they had found another village turned to dust because of no rainfall. Ace had contacted Deuce and the others who had discreetly gone further up the coast to gather intel for their former captain. “Just remember we’re here to support Luffy, not to outshine or outdo him in any way.” Sabo reminded his brother.

Ace groaned. He really hated it when Sabo would go all big brother on him when he was the eldest, not Sabo! “Damn it! I know that!” He growled at his twin. The sweltering heat was annoying not too harsh for Ace but he understood why his brother was getting upset. Sabo always did react badly when overheated.

The two brothers turned to rejoin everyone who was riding or walking ahead of them when they noticed Luffy stop walking. Ussop was the first to notice him trailing behind them. “Hey is there something wrong Luffy?”

The blue haired princess looked over at him from her perch on eyelashes back; the camel friend of Choppers. “Luffy?”

Luffy crossed his arm over his chest. With his head down he began speaking. “I quit.”

“Huh?!” Everyone yelled out at him including his brothers who came up behind him.

“What do you mean you quit!?” Vivi asked her voice on the edge of panic.

Ussop groaned. “We’ve got a lot to do, and it’s hot. There’s no time for your crap!” The sniper sounded a bit annoyed with his captains antics.

“We plan on stopping the rebels in this kingdom.” He stated rather than asking.

“Well obviously.” Sanji agreed.

“Where is he going with this?” Sabo asked gaining a shrug from his brother.

“Which is boring.” Luffy stated the obvious.

“Wait, what!?” Sanji yelled gaining a grin from Zoro who seemed to know what Luffy was up to.

“Vivi, listen. I want to kick Crocodile’s ass, okay?” His two brothers grinned, thinking it was gonna be Luffy wanting to go off on his own to fight. “If we stop the people starting the rebellion, do you think that’s going to stop Crocodile?”

“I don’t understand.” She said, her eyes showing fear; fear of Luffy leaving, of failing to get her country the help it needs and failing to save everyone.

“I understand.” Zoro stated as he laid his hand on his hip.

“It’s an interesting point.” Sanji agreed taking a puff from his cigarette.

“Even though it’s Luffy pointing this out.” Ussop muttered quietly.

Luffy continued as he felt his brother’s come up next to him, watching him. “Vivi, you’re hoping that we can all come outta this with no one dying, right?”

“Well,” she began feeling unsure for a second. “Yes.”

“Not one of us. Not one of the citizens. You’re living a dream world!” Luffy finished sounding quite sure about his words.

Suddenly the princess jumped from the camels back. She approached Luffy looking all pissed. “Oh is that so? Tell me, do you think I’m wrong?” Luffy looked at her unimpressed. “What is wrong with not wanting people to die?”

Luffy looked at her angrily but held that anger back, reminding himself she was his friend. “Death happens.” Both Ace and Sabo looked away with their hats covering their eyes. They knew this all too well and the fact that their baby brother had to remind people of this was the sad part of their life.

Suddenly the princess punched Luffy, sending him flying backwards. Both brothers knew he could’ve stopped it or even dodged it; which meant that this punch was intentionally landing on him. “Shut your mouth! You say that one more time and they’ll be the last words you ever speak!” Vivi screamed her pale fist throbbing from hitting him. The group on the other hand were less than impressed with Luffy acting all weak. “The royal and rebel armies and people of this kingdoms are all innocent of wrong doing! So why do any of them have to die?”Ussop made to stop the two from fighting when Sanji grabbed his shoulder and shook his head at his friend.

Luffy stood up, his hat having fallen off of his head by now, causing his curly hair to get into his eyes. He looked at Vivi. He could see her point, but it was a mute action. “If nobody needs to die,” he began as he rushed at her and pulled his punch as he hit her in the face with his fist. “then why are you out here risking your life?”

“Luffy!” Ussop yelled.

“Hey! Stop!” Sanji yelled not liking to see a beautiful woman hit.

Vivi flipped Luffy and jumped onto his chest and began wailing on his face. “Just one look at this kingdom and even we can tell.” Luffy began speaking even throughout the hitting.

“Tell what!?” She yelled as she continued to hit him.

“What needs to be done most!” Luffy continued. “As if putting your life on the line would be enough out here!” Luffy was beginning to sound equally upset with Vivi the way she seemed to be with him.

Through tears, Vivi questioned. “Then tell me what I should be putting on the line?! I don’t have anything else to sacrifice! I don’t have anything else worth putting on the line other than the life of some stupid princess!” Luffy suddenly grasped her fist with his hand, stopping her pitiful punches.

“We put all of our lives on the time together! We’re friends, right?” She looked at him with wide tear filled eyes. “We’re here to help you!” Vivi lost it. Since arriving she’d been trying so hard to act tough and strong so the others couldn’t see how pitiful she was, but Luffy saw it! He always saw through his friend’s walls no matter how thick they made them. “Whoa, I guess you can cry. Sorry.” Luffy said trying to joke and get her tears to stop. “I know you wanna beat Crocodile more than even I do, but we’re friends and we’re in this together. So you’re not alone.”

Sabo smirked. So that’s what he was trying to do. He looked over at Ace who was looking up and away. “Hey, are you okay Ace?”

“Shut it.” Ace grouched as he wiped his eyes. “There’s dust in my eyes.” He obviously lied.

Sabo rolled his eyes at the obvious lie. “Now let’s go find this Crocodile.” Luffy said as he dusted off his strawhat and placed it back on his head.

Clearing his throat Ace spoke with a wide grin. “Luffy,” this caused the strawhat captain to look at his brother. “I’m all for sticking together and all, but ‘Bo has Revolutionary contacts that could be useful in this instance.” Luffy’s eyes widened. “How about we go into the nearest rebel camp and see if we can stall any heavy war between the rebels and the royal army?”

Sabo gave an equally happy grin to this as Ace had. “I might not actually be able to sanction anything officially but it would stall their leadership with paperwork for two or three days.”

Vivi clasped her hands together in prayer. “Please?” She begged Luffy. It might be the distraction they needed.

“I like that idea Ace,” Luffy agreed. “Take Nami or Ussop, they can write the official paperwork.” He used air quotes on the word official. “Plus, they’re one of the few outside of the revs or Whitebeards that could sneak into the rebels without raising any suspicion.”

“You know,” Ussop began as he spoke to the others. “when he actually uses his brain he makes a lot of sense.” The group of friends all nodded in agreement.

Chapter Text

Chapter 20: Deception

“Why me!?” Usopp complained as he followed behind the two brothers.

Sabo grinned as they approached the first rebel encampment. “Nami stated you had better skills that could help us.”

“Plus she didn’t want to leave the pretty princess alone in Sanji’s presence.” Ace counter before chuckling. “Although I think Princess Vivi could have handled Sanji easily.”

“You’re telling me.” Usopp agreed. “She surprised us with that attack on Luffy. Though I think Luffy let her attack him.” The two brothers shared a look. So Usopp noticed.

“He was allowing her vent.” Sabo assured the young man. “She’s been holding back.”

“I do agree with Lu though.” Ace spoke as they stopped by an abandoned house. “If she thinks everyone is going to survive this without getting hurt or somebody dying, she delusional.”

“Doesn’t mean we can’t try out damnest to ensure everyone comes out of it safely.” Usopp stated as peered at the encampment. “So what’s the plan?”

“We walk in. I do the talking.” Sabo stated as he tipped his hat forward to protect his eyes from the sun, Ace copying the action.

“Wouldn’t have it any other way.” Usopp mumbled as he followed quietly behind them.

“Has Ace checked in lately?” Izou’s voice echoed as he and his two companions walked through a cavernous tunnel. A week ago this tunnel had appeared outside of the Pop’s old hometown on Sphinx Island, the Mayor contacted them immediately.

Marco turned to look behind himself at his brother. “What do you think, yoi?” He stated sounding a bit annoyed.

“I think our youngest brother is off being his freest self.” Thatch stated with a crooked grin as he walked passed Marco. “Though, I think Firecracker found his younger brother and is having fun with him.” He looked upwards as they came to a huge cavern. “Whoa.” His eyes began scanning the ceiling of the cave. “Is it me or does the ceiling look like swiss cheese?”

Both brothers looked up as well. “You’ve spoken to Ace, haven’t you?” Izou inquired as he looked back at his brother.

The grin on the cooks face said it all. “Hey it’s not my fault our baby bro likes to check in on me.”

Both men narrowed their eyes at him. “You’re still playing the poor me card with him?” Marco inquired causing his brother to begin backing away from him.

“Well..” Thatch chuckled. “he’s just checking in to make sure the new metal arm is working out.” He flexed the metal limb. “Still got to thank him for introducing me to those guys in Water 7.” He turned his attention back to the ceiling of the cave. “I think we may have a problem here though.”

Izou looked up again. “The holes in the ceiling are they what’s worrying you?”

“Yeah.” He said looking back at them. “Back on my home island caves began popping up under a town twenty miles from my hometown. Six months later a huge sinkhole appeared where the caves were.”

“And the town?” Marco asked having a sinking feeling.

“Destroyed.” Thatch stated grimly. “Nobody survived. They were pulled under when the sinkhole appeared. In a single night a hundred and sixty people died.” His brothers paled. “The caves looked like this. I remembered how they reminded me of swiss cheese back then.”

“What caused this, yoi?” Marco’s question caused his brother to shrug.

“I don’t know.” Thatch answered truthfully. “But we need to move the town, asap.” Marco nodded in agreement.

The three brothers turned and left the cave without noticing the slight rumbling sound coming from deeper within the cave. Deeper inside the cave, had they continued, the brothers would have found a river of hot boiling water which was turning the ground into swiss cheese as it surged forward destroying everything it touched. If it continued to move as it was the entire island would soon become destabilized and sink. Only one island out of thousands that would soon share that fate.

Ace’s eyes narrowed as he starred at the giant lizard that was standing guard outside the rebel camp. Sabo and Usopp had gone on ahead leaving him outside with instructions “not to do anything obviously pirate-y”. His eyebrows twitched as his fingers heated up. The lizard looked good to eat.

“Are you with the revolutionaries too?” Came a voice behind him, Ace quickly doused the flame forming in his palm.

Turning around Ace looked at the young man. He seemed too young to be apart of any type of movement, let alone rebelling against the King of his nation. Just how young are these people anyway? Is this really the fault of the king? Something here just isn’t sitting right. “Yeah. I’m keeping watch.”

“We have guards doing that.” Assured the kid.

“I’m sure you do.” Ace stated as he noticed something on the horizon. It looked like a sand twister, but the energy inside told him otherwise. It looked like two individuals, one a woman with multiple hands whipping around her causing a tornado like appearance. “Yet there are things those guards of yours can’t see or won’t be able to fight quick enough.” He nodded towards the whirlwind that was vanishing into the distance. “That wasn’t natural. It was created by a devil fruit user. Your camp is being watched.”

The boys eyes widened in horror. “I’ll go tell our leader.” As the kid ran off, Ace wondered if that person was apart of the royal army or Crocodiles invaders.

“I  hope we are not too late to stop this.” Ace muttered to no one but himself. “Otherwise this is going to be a slaughter.”

Luffy glared at the man before him. Crocodile. The slick black hair, scar across the bridge of his nose and cigar hanging on the side of his mouth. Something seemed off about this guy. He couldn’t put his finger on it. The fact he was wearing a freaking fur coat in the middle of the desert was really screaming at Luffy that something really was off.

Luffy tipped his head to the side, crossed his arms over his chest and proceeded to watch Vivi yell. Crocodile had snatched her from their new ride through the desert. A freaking giant crab! His eyes turned towards the woman next to Crocodile. He hadn’t noticed that she was there until now. Luffy really wanted to fight this guy. He knew that Sabo would be upset if he attacked without knowing more about how this guy fought, but he was going to cause trouble soon. Luffy could see it in the guy, the way he stood just screamed it.

Does this guy have haki? He wondered unable to get a good read on him. I can’t feel hardly anything from him. He thought as he pushed his hat up a bit to reveal his eyes. He needed to make his hits count. He also didn’t want to reveal too much to this guy. Armament? Coating his fist only in haki might allow him to keep it to himself that he has haki. He needs to find out how strong, or how much of a threat, this guy is. He crew wasn’t going to like this. He was going to have to get hurt in order find out.

“Vivi!” he yelled out pathetically. He always made it look like he was weak in order to make his enemies let down their guard. It was something Sabo had taught him during his training.

The man began laughing at him. “You called my name, Strawhat?”

Pulling his punch, Luffy hit the man with a less than effective hit. He needed to see this guy’s strength. Sand dispersed where the man’s head had been. “Take that Crocodile!” A devil fruit user. He thought. Perfect! This meant he could go full out on this guy, eventually.

Zoro grasped his weapon. “So this is the Warlord Crocodile?” He asked nobody in particular. “Be careful Luffy.”

“Now that’s not nice.” Crocodile chided.

Suddenly fire fell from the sky, hitting the man below and causing sand whip around them furiously when a huge bird swooped down and grasped Princess Vivi. “Vivi, what are you doing here!?” The bird man inquired.

“Pell, it’s you!” She yelled excitedly.

Good. She knows that guy. Luffy thought. Just then the woman that had been near Crocodile smiled. This was when hands began coming out and around the bird man Pell causing him to drop Vivi and fall.

The bird turned man cursed. “Damn you!” He charged Crocodile only to be caught by those hands again. “Clutch!” The woman yelled out causing the man to bed over backwards and drop his sword from his hand. “Not even the greatest warrior in the kingdom is anything special.”

“Anybody know who that is?” Zoro inquired.

Sanji breathed out from his cigarette. “Nobody we want to mess with.” He stated coolly.

“This is all so pointless.” Crocodile stated. “Considering the party has already begun.” He laughed evilly. “Wouldn’t you agree with me, Miss All Sunday?”

As she looked at him, Luffy could tell that she had her own plans being put in place. “I would.” she agreed.

Crocodile sneared at Princess Vivi   “Using the weapons from the armory ships that I sent into Nanohana, the rebel army has launched an all out attack and the royal army intends to fight back with furious resolve.” Princess Vivi looked at Crocodile with horror in her eyes. “It’s heartbreaking but almost poetic.” he chuckled with evil intent. “The love for the kingdom will be what destroys the kingdom.” His laughter grew with intensity.

Luffy and his group could not believe it, this guy truly was evil.  But how were they going to stop him? Obviously, he had a devil fruit, one that could protect him from Luffy‘s gum, gum, fruit and that woman, Miss All Sunday, was somebody they could not fight without knowing how to defeat her first.

“He’s evil.” Nami gasped.

“He embodies the word fiend like no one else that I’ve ever met.” Sanji groaned.

“Hey where did Luffy go?” Nami asked with panic as she just noticed that their captain was missing.

Then they all looked up as a shadow in the sky appeared and saw Luffy falling from downwards and landing in front of Princess Vivi. Stretching his arm multiple times around her and Pell, Luffy yelled out “Zorro, catch!” and threw both Princess Vivi and the man at his friend.

Zorro gasped as he suddenly had Princess Vivi being projectiled towards him. Having no time to actually catch her, he resigned to his fate as the young princess crashed into him. One day I’m going to kill him. Zorro thought as Pell landed in heap near him.

“You guys go on without me! I can handle this loser by myself!” Luffy yelled causing

“Oh?” Crocodile stated, obviously not believing this young man. This could be interesting. He thought not realizing how right he was. “Is that so?”

“Get going!” Luffy yelled. Trying to protect his friends and keep this guy’s attention on him instead of them.

“Chopper tell your friend to step on it and get going!” Sanji yelled at the reindeer.

“Right!” he squeaked panicking, fear rising within his little body.

Crocodile snarled at them. “Do you really think I’ll let you go that easily?”

Luffy glared at the man as the giant crab began to run away. “You don’t get it do you? I’m your target now, not them.” A wide D grin forming on his face as he released one of his secret weapons, something even Sabo had not seen yet. His conqueror haki flashed causing Crocodile to stumble backwards slightly.

Crocodile’s cigar fell from his mouth as he stared at the youth before him. He has that?! he thought, astonished that such a child would have that power. Impossible! “You little brat. You’re going to regret that.”

“They actually escaped.” Miss All Sunday was impressed. But I don’t think their captain will. She thought grimly.

“Gomu, Gomu, pistol!” Luffy yelled out as he coded his arm with armament haki. Instead of his fist going through crocodiles face, it made actual skin on contact with him. The attack threw Crocodile off his feet towards Miss All Sunday. The unexpected attack and skin on skin contact dazed Crocodile for a moment. It made him remember his rookie days when he would fight the likes of Edward Newgate and Roger. This kid truly knew haki.

A wide grin forming on his own face , it had been years since Crocodile had, had a true fight. He could feel the blood pumping faster in his veins. He was truly excited for what this child could show him. However, he did not have the time to get a true fight out of him. He had other things to attend to. So quickly and swiftly, he surrounded the young man with a whirlwind of heat and sand. Hoping to end this quickly.

Unfortunately, for Crocodile, when the sand and dust settled, Luffy was still standing his armament haki coating his entire body, which protected him from the swirling sands.  His arms were outstretched as he readied for another attack from the warlord Crocodile. “Is that all you have?” Luffy taunted.

Crocodile could feel his eyebrow twitch at this taunt. How dare this kid, this child taunt me! Anger surge through him. He would kill this boy!

Miss All Sunday could see potential in the small captain. Perhaps this one would be different. Perhaps he could help me? Thinking quickly just as Crocodile sent another whirlwind at the boy, using her devil fruit, she pulled the boy under the sands as deeply as she humanly could without killing him. If at all possible, she needed to use this boy. Perhaps I will use him as a tool? Perhaps as another way of an escape. She did not know, only knew that she would need him later.

“Congratulations he’s gone!” She congratulated crocodile.

“Tch!” An annoyed sound came from his lips. “He escaped.” he growled at her. “ I want him found!” With those words, he created another twister and left.

Luffy’s head popped out of the sand at that moment. “You helped me, why?” He asked has he eyed her suspiciously.

Miss All Sunday smiled softly and looked at him as if in deep thought. “I have my reasons.” She assured him before leaving as well.

Luffy blinked in confusion. “You could’ve pulled me out before you left!” he groused as a frown appeared upon his face and he had to dig himself out of the sand. “Now way did my friends go?” he wondered once he got himself out. “Oh well, I’ll just figure it out.” he grinned to himself and began walking in the opposite direction that his friends truly went.

Chapter Text

Chapter 21: Luffy Has a Plan

The scream of freedom could be heard as the boy who ate the devil fruit Mythical Zoan Human Human Model Nika flew through the sky. His fist coming down as he grinned at the dragon before him; Kaidou, King of the Beast Pirates. The beast took the fist to the face as beyond them flames from another scorched his kingdom of Onigashima with fire. As his body went crashing down into the fiery pit below he could feel the flaming energy that was King die out as a darker fire burned through his fortress kingdom. Surrendering to his fate, Kaidou knew now who this Strawhat Luffy was. After hearing how he took out Crocodile in Alabasta two years prior, he really should have taken the boy seriously.

Luffy sighed in relief as he drank the water the old man had given him as his eyes scanned the barren land. The old man was going on saying how only a few short years ago this was a thriving city, with markets, city council and even a nearby lake. Yuba was nothing like it once was. Sand was everywhere with tumbleweeds blowing in the winds. Wild animals now walked or crawled the town streets. Above him the vultures flew above them waiting for new prey. He watched the old man pick up the shovel once again to begin shoveling the well to find water once more.

There’s no water anywhere in this country outside of the capital. Luffy thought. This means that Crocodile has control over the only source of water. Luffy stood up and began to dig in the sand with his hands in order to help the older man with the well.

“STOP!” The old man cried out. “You’re just burying what I just unburied!” The outcry causing Luffy to fall onto his ass.

“I was just trying to help.” Luffy explained.

“If you want to help, defeat crocodile!” The old man yelled. “He’s the reason, the real reason that this country is in such desolation.” The old man stared off into the distance, as if remembering something. “King Cobra would never betray this country. Not when he loves it so much.”

“How can I defeat him?” Luffy inquired. “I fought him once and he is very strong. Even stronger with that woman next to him.”

“I’ve heard whispers on the wind about that woman.” The old man stated. “ Rumor is her name isn’t Miss All Sunday. Instead, her name might be that of Nico Robin.” The old man began to dig once more. “Of course I’m just a fool out here in the desert, digging sand. Who would believe me that the demon child is actually here in this country?” He chuckled at his own words.

“Demon child?” Luffy inquired, having never heard of this person. “Who is that?”

“Who indeed.” The old man said no longer wanting to talk to this young man. Luffy stared at the old man for a moment, confused as why he would even bring up this. “If you want to defeat crocodile think about what his weakness should be or could be?” The old man stated as he continued to dig. “Just like all of us have our weaknesses, so must he.”

Luffy thought about this for a moment before grinning at the old man. “Shishishi.” he laughed. “Oh I get it. What’s the opposite of dry? Wet!”

The old man stopped digging for a moment. Thinking about what the young man just said. Wet? His eyes widened and realization. It couldn’t be that easy. He thought. Incredulously, this young man may have just saved them from a war. If they could just defeat crocodile. Shaking his head, old man knew that no one would listen to him. People had stopped listening to him along time ago.

“Why do the rebels believe that king cobra is the one responsible for the destruction of this country, and not crocodile?” Luffy asked.

“Dance powder.” The old man growled. “When the powder is burned, it takes the form of a vapour which can be released into the air. It accelerates the creation of ice particles in subfreezing temperature clouds, resulting in immediate heavy rainfall. The process in which the artificial rain is created artificially matures clouds which allows them to release rain. However, this powder cannot create new rainwater entirely. If the powder causes all rain to fall in one location, it will deprive other locations of rain, causing droughts.” Luffy cocked his head confusedly at the information that the old man was giving him. “A wagon filled with the stuff was found. It had the royal seal upon it.” The old man gave us a sigh of sadness. “People believe that King Cobra was seeding the clouds around the capital in order to keep it healthy while allowing the rest of the kingdom to go into a drought.”

“How do you know this was not the work of the king?” Luffy asked.

“Because I personally have met the king and he is not that sort of man.” The old man looked off into the distance sadly. “I just can’t prove it.”

“You don’t need to prove it to me.” if he stated with a grin. “I’ve met Princess Vivi and if her father is anything like his daughter, then I know he is not doing this.”

The man froze at these words before spinning around and looking at the young man. “P-Princess Vivi is alive!?” he cried out tears of joy appearing in his eyes.

“Yep!” Luffy grinned. “She’s with my friends headed towards the capital to stop the war.”

“Impossible!” The old man exclaimed. “She was supposedly killed a long time ago.”

Luffy chuckled. “Nope. She’s alive.” His grin becoming wider. “But now I have an idea as to how I can defeat crocodile.” Luffy jumped up off of the ground and dusted his butt off. “I just have to find my friends and tell them how we can defeat him!” He thrust his hands up into the air in his excitement. Suddenly, he realized he didn’t actually know which way the capital was. “You wouldn’t know where the capital is would you?”

The old man felt his nerves shake a bit. Lifting our old decrypted finger, he pointed the way. “It’s about a day’s ride that way.” he stated still feeling a little nervous.

Luffy looked in the way the old man had pointed. “Yosh!” he grinned. “Thanks old man!” He screamed as he ran off into the direction that the old man had pointed.

“Don’t tell me he’s gonna run the whole way!?” he thought loudly his nervousness increasing.

Ace stared down at the giant lizard with annoyance evident on his face. His eyebrow twitched at the creature. “Do you want to end up like your friend?” He asked as he pointed towards the giant crab behind him that he had just cooked with his devil fruit. The giant lizard looked a bit frightened as it backed away from Ace. “Smart.” He stated as he walked past the creature. Pushing out his observation Ace could feel one of his brothers was ahead of him and gaining speed.

As he had towards the haki energy Ace realize that’s who the person wants. Luffy was spending more energy in the desert than actually helping anyone. Ace groaned at this. Lu what the hell are you up to? He thought as he continued his way towards his brother. He found Luffy in a cave, sheltered from the sun. “What the hell are you doing?” His voice, causing Luffy to startle slightly.

Luffy jumped into the air at the sound of a voice. Spinning around he released an attack onto his brother. A jet of water was spat out of fluffy’s mouth and into Ace’s face. Upon realizing that it was his brother that he just attacked Luffy backed away from him several feet. “Oops sorry Ace.” Luffy apologized.

Ace with his face dripping wet, looked at Luffy annoyed. His face his hat his clothes were wet now. Technically he couldn’t use his devil fruit either at least until he was dry. “Run.” he warned Luffy.

Looked at his brother with nervousness. “Wait, Ace don’t.” he begged his brother as he waved his arms in front of him to defend himself. “I know how to defeat Crocodile!”

“And that had you fill your mouth with water and spit it at me?” Ace asked, still annoyed with his brother. He began whipping his face with the sleeve of his jacket. He guessed he should really be used to Luffy‘s antics.

Luffy started giggling. “Shishishi!” The young man spun around. “I had to test it.” he pulled his cheek, which stretched like a rubber band. “I’m not affected by this water.”

“Hmm?” Ace questioned as he took his hat off and shook it. “What do you mean?”

Luffy began to explain what dance powder was, and how crocodile was using it to cause droughts around the entire kingdom. However, this water was not like normal water. Luffy stuck his hand into the barrel that he had before retracting it. He then stretched his arm out without any problems. “For some reason it does not affect me.”

“Question is, does it affect Crocodile?” Ace wondered out loud before placing his own hand within the barrel and quickly retracted. It seemed to affect him. Ace looked at Luffy incredulously. What made his baby brother different?

Luffy giggle at his brother’s antics. “Don’t know, but I can’t wait to try it on him.” His laughter, gaining in volume.

“Tch.” Ace said with annoyance. “You better not do something stupid.” Unfortunately Ace knew that was probably what was going to happen.

“Don’t worry, I got a plan,” Luffy scratched his head before cocking it to the side. “I think.” Luffy began laughing again.

Ace slapped a hand over his eyes in defeat. Seas help me. He prayed.

”So why are you out here by yourself? Where is Sabo and Usopp?” Luffy inquired.

“Sabo is an idiot.” Ace  solely replied his facial features showing that he was quite annoyed.

Chapter Text

Chapter 22: Misunderstanding

Hours prior to Ace and Luffy meeting up Ace had been in the rebel camp watching as Sabo negotiated with the leader of the rebels. The desert dweller was distrustful, but had heard of the Revolutionaries and knew they could be useful in a real fight. Sabo quickly learned the man’s name was Koza. Sabo quickly understood why this young man was the leader and not someone older. His sense of justice matched that of the revolutionary army. He saw an injustice going on here in the Alabasta Kingdom and wanted so desperately to change the course of which the supposedly king was taking it.

Sabo still didn’t believe it was Cobra but in fact Crocodile that was behind the drought in the kingdom. There was just too much evidence against Cobra though. After Koza had told Sabo how he had gone to speak to King Cobra only for the king to attack him was when Koza started to believed that the king was capable of destroying their kingdom.

Cobra is a friend to dragon. Sabo thought as a scratch the side of his head, trying to make sense of this. Cobra has never done anything like this before, why would he do it now? Sabo was brought out of his thoughts when he heard a loud crash outside of the tent they were in. The two men jumped from their seats and rushed to the flap of the tent. Once outside, they saw a young boy rushing into one of the guards.

“There’s a devil fruit user outside of the camp!” he yelled fear upon his face.

Sabo sweat drip down his neck. He wouldn’t be that stupid would he? He thought as he spotted Ace standing at the entrance of the camp.

“He’s just like his brother.” Sabo heard Ussop mutter next to him.

“Do you know that man?” Koza inquired as he spotted Ace.

If I say yes, we might get into trouble and then they’ll have a hard time believing us when we do find real proof about Crocodile. Sabo thought. If I say no, I might get a beating from Ace. An image of Ace beating him up, appeared into Sabo‘s mind. “No, i’ve never seen him before in my life.” Ussop gasped at the blatant lie. Was he really going to throw his brother under the bus for this? The answer was yes.

Ace looked over his shoulder and saw a group of the rebels, coming towards him with weapons drawn. Oh shit. He thought as he spotted his brother looking up and away from him. That fucking idiot.

“Stop! Do not come any closer or we will shoot you!” One of the guards yelled in warning.

Ace glared at his brother. You are so fucking dead when I get my hands on you. He thought as he turned and ran.

I’m so dead! Sabo thought with a mental scream as he turned his head away from watching Ace run.

He is so dead. Ussop thought thankful for once that he didn’t have any brothers.

Back to the present, Ace looked over Luffy and noticed that he looked a little like he had been in a fight. “So where are your friends?” he asked still trying to figure out who had Luffy and left him looking a little ragged.

Luffy giggle”Shishishi.” Before he scratched his head and smiled at his brother. “Don’t worry, they know how to take care of themselves. I think I know how to fight and win in a battle with Crocodile now.”

“What do you mean?” Ace asked as he pulled his cloak off.

“Have you noticed that the entire kingdom is made out of sand?” Luffy inquired.

His brother looked at him with a deadpanned look. “No, I thought it was made out of sugar.” he said with sarcasm dripping from his voice.

“Huh?” Luffy said confused. Shaking his head, he continued. “There’s an old man in the village back there that told me about how Alabasta used to be filled with greenery. That the rain used to fall monthly. Then one day it stopped.” Luffy grinned. “Basically Crocodile stop the rain when he came to Alabasta. I think water is his weakness.”

That would make sense. Ace thought. “How?”

“He’s a devil fruit user.” Luffy explained. “He’s able to create sand and use it to his will.” Lucy looked at his hands as he allowed the sand to fall through his fingers. “All I have to do is spray him with water to ensure that he won’t be able to use his devil fruit power.”

“You’re forgetting something.” Ace said while looking at his brother, as he tried to remind him of the obvious. “You’re against weak against water too.”

“Yeah, but I won’t be the one drenched in it!” he laughed.

“How the hell do you plan on drenching Crocodile in water?” Ace asked starting to sound annoyed.

“Hmm..” Luffy thought. “Not sure yet. But I’ll figure it out!” he exclaimed, sounding very excited.

Ace sighed though a groan came out instead. “I don’t think I’m going to survive this.” he said mostly to himself. With Luffy, getting excited about fight that he might lose and Sabo trying to kill me with the rebels; I might as well leave. His thought process was interrupted when Luffy suddenly spotted a cave in the distance.

“Gomu Gomu no Rocket!” Luffy launched his hands outward grasping two boulder rocks and then released his feet from the ground, sending himself and Ace shooting them both towards the cave.

Landing face first into a pit of sand Ace growled..“I’m going to kill you. I swear before this is over. I. Will. Kill. You.” With Luffy landing on top of him as a cherry on top.

Luffy laughed. “I don’t think so.” Ace sighed as he resigned to his fate.

Chapter Text

Chapter 23: The Fight Begins

Crocodile prided himself on his intelligence. Once becoming a Warlord of the sea Crocodile had decided that it just wasn’t enough. Finding the right people to pull this off was the hard part, but when Nico Robin a.k.a. Miss all Sunday had come into his group things seem to have fallen into place very quickly. Oh the woman thought he didn’t know who she was but he did and he had plans. First and foremost, he had to find the ancient weapon that Alabasta had and the poneglyph would tell where it was.

Allowing the people of this Kingdom to think that their king had betrayed them was just a ruse he had set up as a diversion. His true intentions were quite well hidden. As long as Bon Clay kept up the ruse that he was King Cobra, things would work out as they should.

He narrowed his eyes as he stared out the window of his hideaway in the capital. However, he was no idiot. He knew Strawhat would reappear soon. That boy reminded him of that man and if he was anything like him, Strawhat wouldn’t be giving up any time soon.

A tall, imposing dark skinned man with medium length black hair and a long broad nose resembling that of a jackal carrying a massive sword, with a blue hilt and sheath, on his right hip. Walked down the palace courtyard and came to a group of nervous looking palace guards. “What is going on here?” He demanded, his deep voice causing the guards to turn quickly towards him.

“Sir Chaka!” One gasped. “We can’t seem to find the King.”

“What!?” Chaka gasped. At a time like this!?

“We’ve looked everywhere!” Another told him. “We have scoured every inch of the palace to find him, but he’s vanished!”

“As if that’s not bad enough,” another began nervously. “Only about twelve miles from here the rebels have been spotted along with a revolutionary!”

Chaka felt his nerves begin to crack slightly but held it together for his men. “Whatever you do, do not let the rebels inside the capital!” He ordered the men his voice causing their backs to straighten at the order. “And defend all the gates to the death!”

“Yes sir!” The guards yelled as they rushed to complete his orders.

Sabo stood watching the rebels began to tear down their encampments and leave to go fight. He had been unable to convince the rebel leadership that this fight with the Nobel family would be in vain and to wait until his spies returned, spies being Luffy and his crew. However Ace’s little stunt had spooked them a bit and now things were advancing too quickly. If these men went forward with their plans they would surely all be killed!

Seas help me. He thought as he pulled the brim of his top hat down a bit. It was a habit he had when upset or his nerves were getting to him. Being smart he had sent Ussop on ahead, hoping he would find the straw hats before anyone got hurt. The boy seemed relieved to go. What he didn’t know was that Sabo had sent him to stop any fighting before it got out of hand which meant being on the frontlines. Something the sniper knew nothing about and probably for the best.

Usopp rode the camel as fast as he could. Hopefully I can get everyone out of harms way before the fighting actually starts! He thought as his cowardly instincts were telling him that he was going the wrong way. What am I talking about? They’ll want to fight! They’ll protect Vivi no matter what! He felt his bones shake at the thought of having to fight someone stronger than himself. I wanted to be a brave warrior of the sea! Well I guess it’s now or never! Gritting his teeth he snapped the raines on the camels bridle.

As the city came into view he saw Chopper in his big form preparing to fight two individuals.  However, he could see from where he was that the rebels were attacking from the opposite side from him and that there was somebody stupid enough to stand between them and the city. Why do I have a feeling that’s Luffy? He thought as he decided helping Chopper may be the safer bet than assisting Luffy in being stupid. Two against two is better than two against an army! He mentally yelled at himself. Of course it might be better if I could find the right weapon for my skills! Without knowing it, Usopp was about to enter a battle that would take every skill he had in order to survive it.

Chapter Text

Chapter 24: Battlecry!

"You're dead!" Chopper heard the Baroque's Works Pirate snarl as she and the other rushed at him.

This is bad. He thought as he went into reindeer mode and ran. I can't fight by myself! They're so much stronger than me! What was I thinking! He began panicking. Just then a scream caught Choppers attention as Usopp flew overhead landed between him and the other two pirates and shot at them. The two tiny pellets that he shot, one exploded in front of the two pirates who cried out in pain, the other seeming to be a dud. "What was that Usopp?"

His friend looked down at him. "A mixture of gun powder, the world's hottest pepper and lime juice."

The reindeer cocked his head at him. "Why lime juice?" He asked curiously.

"Ever get limejuice sprintz into your eye while cutting it?" The curly haired teen asked gaining a head shake of a no from his animal friend. "It hurts like a mother, topped with the world's hottest pepper and you're looking at two very uncomfortable pirates."

"Aaaahhhh!" The scream caught their attention. Turning the two watched the man scream as he took out his water from a pouch and poured it on himself.

"That'll make it worse." Usopp commented when the screams intensified.

Suddenly the woman popped up out of the ground like a mole. "You idiot!" Screamed at the man. "Mr 4, I told you to dodge!"

"I tried Miss Merry Christmas!" He screamed.

The woman turned and narrowed her eyes at Usopp. "You're going to pay!"

"Hey Chopper," Usopp began. "Do you know where Luffy is? Sabo wanted me to warm him of the rebels coming."

Chopper looked at him with fear. "I don't know where he is." He said quickly.

The mole woman laughed. "You're idiot of a captain is most likely dead!" She yelled. "My captain is far more intelligent and knows what's going on before anyone else ever does. So if your captain is missing, he's more than likely dead." She laughed. "And in all honesty I'm glad he's dead. He was waste of space." As she laughed she knew she was pulling that out of her ass. She didn't know where the boy was or if he was fighting Crocodile. She just needed to shake their faith in their captain and his cause. "Now long nose, it's your turn!" She began to rush at him from under ground and suddenly snatched his feet and pulled the boy down before digging her claws into his legs.

Usopp screamed in pain before pulling himself out of the hole. The mole woman looked at him with glee. She had hurt him deeply. Looking back at her companion, she spoke. "Can you do something about the reindeer?"

"I can't see very well, but I certainly can try." he said, as he raised the bat in his hand.

"On second thought I have an idea." She stated as her eyes gleamed in the sunlight. "Let's play a little game." She suddenly dove under the ground once again rushing towards Usopp. Popping up out of the ground she grabbed his ankles and began rushing towards her companion who swung his bat at the boy. "Cleanup Hitter!"

Usopp went flying into the sky and landed several feet behind the duo. "USOPP!" Chopper screamed, worry etching his face. "Damn you bastards!" Chopper screamed as tears formed in his eyes he growled with frustration.

"There comes a time in every man's life when he can't run from a fight," Usopp's voice echoed in the desert. "no matter who it's against."

The mole woman look back behind her at the boy who is now standing with blood dripping from his forehead. "No way!" She said disbelief. That boy should've been knocked unconscience with that hit to the head. She thought.

"This time it's because your friends dreams are being laughed at." Usopp groaned. " Luffy is not dead!" he's snarled. "you can't stop him and I know he will be king of the pirates someday. I also know he will defeat your boss!" He tightened his resolve. "And I will never let him be made fun of."

She narrowed her eyes at him. "Let's go again. Batter up."

Usopp's speech gave Chopper encouragement. He's right! He thought. "I don't think so!" Chopper transformed himself into a larger form.

Just then the mole lady dove into the desert sand and rush towards Usopp. She jumping out from behind him and she went to grab his ankles once more. This time though Usopp had an idea. "Chopper get behind me right now!"

"On it!" The reindeer yelled, rushing towards his friend.

"Here goes!" The mole lady yelled out as she grasped the teen by his shoes and began pushing him at a fast speed towards her partner.

As she did so, Usopp push down his sniper goggles which helped him focus as he pulled out his green sniper slingshot and shot one of his small pellets at the man in front of him once more. "Smoke star!" he cried out. The pellet exploded, creating a smoke screen in front of the man. Usopp then jumped out of the mole ladies hands and landed on the ground, now missing his shoes.

Having lost her victim, the mole lady yelled out, but lost her balance in her own trap. This caused her to fly into the air and be caught by chopper who caught her in his antlers. "Moletown cleanup hitter!" Usopp cried out in a woman's voice.

Chopper swung his head causing the woman to fly from his antler into the air just as the man swung his bay at her. "What are you doing you idiot! Don't swing that bat!" The mole lady screamed as her companion swung his bat anyway, hitting her in the face.

"Special Attack! Usoccho!" Usopp yelled as he attached a large rubber band onto Chopper's antlers, pull them back and placed a rather large hammer in it before releasing the rubber band. The second companion, Mr 4, turned around just as the hammer was released. "Hammer Morning Star!" Usopp screamed as the hammer shot and hit the man in the chest, sending him flying through the air. Both he and the mole lady were knocked out completely unconscious.

Chopper reverted to his more childlike form before looking up at Usopp quite thankful that the fight was over. When suddenly an unexploded pellet of Usopp's exploded. The resulting shockwave sent both him and Usopp into the air, thankfully, they both managed to land safely. Usopp looked over at Chopper. "So if you don't know where Luffy is, who does?"

The reindeer thought about that for a moment. "That's a scary thought." He stated as they both looked at each other nervously. Just where was their captain?

The rebel army had made it to the streets of the city but had yet to breach the palace main gate. The leader gasped as he dodged another bullet and slammed his back into a fallen barrier wall. "That looked bad." Said a fellow rebel. "Did they hit you?"

The leader looked at the man. "No." He breathed heavily, trying to gain his breath back. Having run nearly quarter of mile nonstop was getting to him. "I am going into that palace one way or another and I'm going to find Cobra. I am going to demand that he surrender."

The fellow rebel soldier's as widened in surprise. "That's nuts! The palace is surrounded by their main forces." he shook his head at his leader. "You'll never get inside. Going in alone is just a suicide mission." he stared at his leader in disbelief.

The leader side with some discouragement in his voice. "Yeah, but it's already too late for anything else. We should've listened to that revolutionary." He stood and jumped over the barrier wall. All the while he heard the voices of his men crying out in pain as they fought for the freedom, they so righteously thought they earned. Koza was little by little believing that they had made the wrong move.

At the palace gates princess Vivi breathes heavily as she approached the guards there. At first they did not recognize her until she stood up right. "Princess Vivi!" They all gasped in disbelief.

"I need you to take me to Chaka now!" She demanded her voice made hard with her exhaustion.

As all the fighting was going on, Sanji, found himself having the hardest fight of his life. One of the Baroque works pirates had an ability that allowed him to transform himself into anybody as long as he had touched that person. Bon Kurei had come into contact with them a few weeks prior to them being in Alabasta. They had all allowed him to touch them, and thus he currently had Nami's face on on his body.

Sanji really did not like this cross-dressing idiot. He also really did not like the fact that he could not fight to him because he currently had Nami's face on him. He really could not, would not, and shall not ever fight a woman. Even if that woman has her face plastered on a man's body. It was a conundrum that he could not come out from.

"I'm so hot!" Bon stated. "Maybe if I just take off some of these clothes!"

Gah! He gasped. "Do not desecrate Nami like that!" He screamed all the while he really did want to see Nami's body.

Bon punched the perverted cook in his face, losing Nami's form for a moment. "You're starting to bore me. Let's just finish this!" He began to spin super fast. "Cross Dresser Memoir of that Summer Day!"

Sanji rubbed his eye as he watched the cross-dressing man spin around creating a semi tornado effect with his attack. "I'm a bore, your attacks are just so pathetic."

Just as the spinning attack was about to hit Sanji a shadow crossed the cooks vision and Sabo landed in front of him, slamming his pipe weapon into Bon's body this sent the cross-dressing man careening into a side building wall.

"Sorry I'm late." Sabo apologized as he scanned Sanji for any fatal injuries.

"Oi, where have you been?" Sanji inquired as the cross-dresser began to get back up.

Is that man one of Ivankov's people?" Sabo wondered. No, he can't be." Sabo turn towards Sanji. "Ace and I we're trying to get the rebels to see another way to this. Unfortunately, it didn't work." he began looking around. "I sent Usopp ahead of me to warn everyone to get out of this city."

"Hmm?" Sanji wondered. "I haven't seen the guy. Of course I've been fighting this cross-dressing loser all afternoon."

Sabo raised an eyebrow at this comment. "Shouldn't you have beaten this guy by now why are you playing around? I know you are strong."

Sanji grinned. "You didn't see what he looked like a few minutes before you appeared." A raise eyebrows his response. "He has a devil fruit that allows him to look like any one he touches. We met him before you and Ace joined up with us. He had touched everyone on board, except for Vivi."

"Shit." Sabo cursed.

"Okay, you're both going to get it now!" Bon growled and frustration at the two. He charged them and as he jumped into the air Sanji jumped into the air reacting to his attack. The two men began blocking each other with leg attacks and thrusts until Sanji had the upper hand and kicked Bon in his stomach sending him into a wall. Soon after the wall came tumbling down onto the man knocking him completely out.

Sanji stumbled in his footing only for Sabo to catch him. "Are you going to be okay? He asked, causing the cook to look at him with a crooked grin.

"Yeah, though that last kick of his was pretty strong." he spoke this out loud even as he rubbed his side. "Need to tell Chopper that I may have cracked a rib."

"Let's go find the others." Sabo said as he wrapped an arm around Sanji's waist and helped him walk through the street of rubble.

Above them in the palace Crocodile watched as the rebels, the Pirates and his own crew fought against each other. Turning he looked at King Cobra. "Your people are going to fight each other until the last one falls." He told the monarch. "Now all you have to do is tell me where that Poneglyph is and I will leave with my people."

The King breathed heavily. He had been beaten for the last several days. His own people didn't even realize that he been replaced by a fake. His only thoughts were that his daughter had actually escaped this kind of torture. Suddenly, the double doors opened to the room, a woman in a black dress, wearing a white cowboy hat walked into the room.

"It would seem that Princess Vivi has returned." She stated as she smirked at the king, knowing he had thought that his daughter was safe and away from this place.

"Oh?" Crocodile, smiled gleefully. "Where is she?"

"She's with Chaka." She answered.

"I suppose it's time we had a little chat with her." He eyed the king for his reaction and wasn't disappointed by the worry and sadness the king had on his face.

"Of course." The woman said as she turned to leave.

"WAIT!" The King cried out. "I'll give you what you want, just leave my daughter out of this." Crocodile's grin spreading across his face, as he believed he had just won the ultimate prize.

Chapter Text

Chapter 25: The Fight Continues

Chaka stared in disbelief. It truly was Princess Vivi standing before him. She was telling him the horrible details of her journey to return home and how Crocodile was the reason for their country declining and the reason behind the rebel forces. Baroque Works. Why does that sound familiar. “Crocodile is trying to take over?” He asked her as his mind was trying to comprehend the idea.

“If you can hold everyone’s attention for just a few seconds, that’s all I need. I can handle the rest.” She told him. “I know if I can just explain everything, we can stop the fighting.” She then paused. “However, should they not listen. I want you to destroy the palace!”

The guards gasped. “Princess, are you out of your mind!?”

“Princess,” Chaka went to speak only for her to stop him with a hand on his chest.

“Do you really think by destroying the palace that the kingdom would be lost?” She questioned him. “You’re wrong! Listen to me. It’s just a building! Its destruction would make Alabasta a true kingdom for the first time. A kingdom for the people! Not the royals!”

Chaka felt himself back away from the young woman before him with shock. He had never seen such determination from this girl. No, woman. His mind supplied him. She left a girl but returned a woman with strength behind her words.

“A kingdom is nothing without its people.”

Those words echoed in Chaka’s mind. They were King Cobra’s own words. “Princess.” He said straightening his back before he gave a bow of acceptance. “As you wish.” He went to his knees before her. “I will do as you have commanded.” He turned towards the loyal guards. “Bring every explosive we have! Surrounded the palace with them.” May the gods have mercy. He thought silently hoping for a miracle that would stop this.

He’s actually going to do it? The guards questioned silently. This palace holds four thousand years of history within its walls!

“Did I stutter!?” Chaka yelled at the guards who began to rush off to find enough explosives to destroy the foundation and its walls.

Chaka looked at the Princess and swore he saw a woman from another place and time standing where she stood. “I don’t know what to say about all of this.” He muttered softly.

Vivi took a deep calming breath. “Don’t worry. You’re fine.” She stated as she looked over the city that was still fighting. “I’m well aware that you had no choice but to fight the rebel army.” She looked up at the man sadly. “Chaka, I apologize for leaving so suddenly, but it’s not over yet.” She looked back as the smoke began to rise in the air from the fires set in the city. “Even if we do stop the two armies from fighting, as long as Crocodile is alive, peace will never come to this kingdom.”

“How distressing!” Came a voice from above causing all to gasp in surprise. “This is a dangerous plan you are cooking up.” Crocodile revealed himself above the palace gates. “Especially since this place will soon be my home.” Sand flew around him in a whirlwind bringing the man to the front of the gates.

“Crocodile!” Vivi growled out, her hands turning to fists.

Chaka turned his attention towards the Princess with surprise. He’d never heard her make such an animalistic sound before. He then returned his head towards the man before him. He knew of Warlord Crocodile only because the man was supposed to be helping Alabasta. Does the world government know what damage he’s causing by being here? He wondered when a dangerous thought came to mind. Did the world government send him to destroy us from within?

“Hello there, Princess.” Crocodile sneered before side stepping and revealing a tied and beaten King Cobra.

“Papa!” Vivi screamed at the sight of her beloved father.

“Sire!” Chaka gasped, pained at the sight of his King in such distress.

Weakly the King lifted his head. “Vivi, what are you doing here?” He questioned, having hoped she was safe and away from this place.

Dark clouds formed overhead as Nami fell to the ground. The woman before her had the same abilities as she did. She’s stronger. Faster than me. She thought. But I’m smarter!

“Are you ready to accept your fate?” The woman sneered. Thinking she had won, she was letting her guard down, especially since the younger girl wasn’t moving much now that she was on the ground.

Nami narrowed her eyes at the over muscular woman. “No! You first!” She pressed a button on her weather staff sending a black pellet into the sky that hit the darkened clouds she had created earlier. “Thunderbolt tempo!” She yelled out as bolts of electricity shot down hitting the oversized woman standing above her.

Nami screamed as she covered her ears. She’d thrown a too large of a pellet into the cloud creating a too large of a thunder strike. Thankfully it didn’t hurt her, just scared her.

Nearby she heard an explosion as Zoro fought his own battle nearby. “Sparkling daisy!” The baroque works pirate created a slicing ability caused by the devil fruit he ate. The man grinned thinking he had the green haired swordsman within his grasp. Zoro felt sweat drip down his neck at the sheer weight of the attack power but it wasn’t enough to break him nor his swords. Having only needing to use a two-sword style downward block to stop the attack, Zoro thought maybe he’d survive the attack with minimal damage. His chest still ached from the damage done to it by Mihawk’s small sword.

Behind him the building flew apart, having been sheered by the attack’s power. “Blow away!”Zoro’s eyes widened as an explosion between the man’s fingers threw him into the buildings debris field.

Quickly rushing, Zoro pulled his third sword from his waist, placing it in his mouth he rushed towards the man, angered that it was taking him so long to defeat the man before him. I need to be better! Luffy, Vivi, they need me to be the best! He rushed forward determination now glowing in his eyes. He slashed with swords down the man’s chest and defended himself from being beheaded with the sword in his mouth.

Stepping back, Zoro made a quick assessment before quick stepping behind the man who slashed at him with his legs. Zoro stopped the attack before slamming the hilts into the man’s face. Unfortunately before he could pull back the man came at him with his fists that looked like drills. It hit him in the chest, slashing the semi closed wound. Chopper’s going to be upset. He thought as he lost two of his three swords.

“You just won’t give up.” The man said as he watched Zoro keep standing. “This next move will take more than a sword to stop it.”

Zoro grinned. “That’s all I’ll need.”

“Then you’re prepared to die.” His feet, legs and arms suddenly grew blades on them.

Zoro took a deep calming breath. Single sword style: Lion’s strike. He raised his hand and drew his sword as the man rushed at him before striking him from shoulder to groin. The man fell behind him as Zoro drew all his remaining concentration in not falling forward from his own new and old injuries. “Thanks for a good fight.” He said as he righted himself and picked up his swords to leave.

Meanwhile Nami slowly turned her attention back to her opponent. She knew Zoro would be okay. He’s strong. She thought as she looked at the oversized muscle woman who was left smoking a bit from her thunderbolt based attack. Her blue hair spiked with electricity coming off her in small sparks. Not to self, don’t use such large electric pellets. Nami thought.

“Y-You’ll pay for that.” The woman stuttered, noticing how the young girl was now standing up instead of cowering on the ground like before.

Nami felt blood drip down her thigh from a wound. She was exhausted but couldn’t seem to find it in herself to run away. Her friends needed her to fight, and fight she would. “Sea urchin!” The woman screamed.

Right. Her devil fruit power. I think I’ve figured it out. Nami thought. Electric based attacks seem to do the trick. I wonder what would happen if I added something else to it. She watched the woman rush at her with her head down and spikes pointed at Nami. “It doesn’t matter what you do!” She screamed as she stopped woman by pressing the flat end of her staff weapon against the woman’s head. “Break my leg, break them both! It doesn’t matter, because Vivi is going through so much worse than what you can dish out to me!” She grinned. “Besides,” she quipped. “you’re now in range. Electric tornado tempo!” Two metal strings shot out from the staff weapon, wrapping around the woman’s body they began to spin her, at the same time an electric current shot out along the lines.

Nami cried out and was thrown one way as her opponent went the other. Her hands had been burnted from the electrical current as it had malfunctioned. Still her opponent was across the alleyway and unconscious. So it was still a win. She picked up her staff weapon, which was smoking. She heard an explosion from nearby. Turning around she saw a pillar of fire diminish as two baroque work’s pirates fell unconscious.

“Ace!” Nami cried out excitedly. Finally an ally! She thought as she ran up to the raven haired teen.

Ace grinned at the younger woman. “Yo!” he greeted her. “Are you okay?” He asked noticing all the cuts on her person. He then saw a long cut on her thigh. Taking off his orange t-shirt he quickly put it on her as her assets were being revealed a bit too much. If he knew Luffy, which he did, his little brother would get pissed and demand to know who attacked his friend in such a demeaning manner.

“Oh!” Nami said a bit startled when he placed his shirt on her, covering her up a bit. “I’m okay.” She winced as she put her arms through the proper holes. I’ll need to see Chopper later. She noted how stiff her arm felt. A fracture maybe?

Ace continued to look at her with worry. “Are you sure?” He asked, taking note how quickly his orange shirt was turning red in certain places.

She nodded. “I can walk at least.” She looked at her weapon. “Fighting is out of the question for me.” She sighed.

Ace smiled. Tough girl. “Okay. If you say so.” He grinned. Dadan would like this one. “How about I do the fighting for now.”

“Fine by me!” Nami was quick to say, and Ace would later swear she had stars in her eyes upon him saying that. “Have you seen Luffy?” She asked worriedly. “It’s been a day since we lost him.”

He grinned at her worry. “Yeah. He’s headed towards the palace.”

“Why?” She asked confused. “Vivi is there.”

“He says that’s where he needs to go.” Ace stated. The two turned to look towards the dominating building in the horizon.

Vivi yelled angrily. “Why are you here Crocodile! Where’s Luffy!?” She demanded the ground beneath her feet rumbling slightly, going unnoticed by all.

“Oh?” He grinned at her question. “He’s dead.”

“Liar!” Vivi felt something in her beginning to snap, her chest felt tight like a rubber band before it breaks. The angrier she got, the tighter it felt. “Luffy would never fall to the likes of a slime like you!”

“Really?” Crocodile questioned as he took a puff from his cigar.

“Crocodile why are you doing this?” Chaka demanded.

“Keep those flapping lips of yours closed, you idiot.” Crocodile answered, annoyed by the man who was a waste of breath in his eyes. “Cobra,” he began as he turned his attention to the tied up monarch. “there is a question I am just dying to ask you because it is of course my ultimate goal here.” Cobra gasped knowing exactly what he wanted. Crocodile’s eyes narrowed at the fallen king. “Now tell me, where’s the Pluton.”

Chapter Text

Chapter 26: Showdown

Ace looked over the two crewmates he had found, Zoro looked to have had better days. The swordsman assured him that he could still fight though. Nami, on the other hand had no weapon as hers had broken during her fight. It didn’t matter, he could fight in her place. Once they found Luffy, Ace hoped they’d be able to leave the desert. Of course that all depended if Luffy had already fought and defeated Crocodile.

Crying was heard through the destroyed city as Sabo, Sanji, Chopper and Usopp traveled through the deserted area. “I don’t believe it!” Usopp cried.

“Then stop crying!” Sanji yelled at the sniper.

Sabo eyed the two as Chopper carried Usopp on his back. The poor sniper was bandaged from head to toe. “Luffy won’t fall to the likes of Crocodile.” He assured them. “It’s a ploy to get our spirits down.”

“That’s right!” Usopp yelled. “After all, Luffy’s gonna be king of the Pirates!”

Sabo smiled softly at those words. “That’s right.” He agreed as they continued to run. “He will be.”

“Where is the Pluton.” Crocodile repeated.

King Cobra’s eyes were wide with shock even as he hung by the nails in his shoulders on the door of the palace gate. “Tell me, where did you hear that name?” He groaned.

“The Pluton?” Vivi asked sounding confused. “What is that?”

Chaka frowned. “A secret passed down through the royal bloodline.” He answered.

Crocodile smirked. “With it I can build the greatest military state ever known.” He looked at Chaka over his shoulder. “One so enormous and powerful that it would surpass the world government.”

Cobra shook his head, he couldn’t understand how the warlord even knew of that name. “I don’t know where you heard that name, Pluton,” he spat out. “When not even I know of its location.” Crocodile looked at him angrily. “It’s not even clear in texts if it truly exists or if it’s a myth from the ancient times of the gods.”

“I see.” Crocodile calmed himself as he took in the smoke of his cigar and blew it at the injured and captured king. A vien popped out on his forehead at the transpired events. “Incidentally, your royal army is waiting in the town square where a very powerful bomb is about to go off in a few minutes.”

Those gathered gasped in horror and disbelief. “HAVE YOU LOST YOUR MIND!?” King Cobra yelled in fury.

“Everything in a three mile radius will be leveled, changing the entire landscape.” He grinned.

“But if you do that-“ Vivi began only to be interrupted by the warlord.

“Oh please.” He said looking at her as he raised his hand and hook to the sky. “I thought you’d be happy! With both armies dead, this will end the war!”

“What did they ever do to you!” She screamed, her body moving on its own but before she could attack the man Chaka physically had to stop her. “You monster! How can you be so evil!”

The conversation seemed to bore him once more as he looked away from the Princess. “Let’s change the subject.” He announced as he returned his attention to the king. “So tell me, you must know this. Where is the Poneglyph that’s been passed down by the royal family?”

With pain filled eyes, King Cobra understood, this was his true goal. “Very well,” he bowed his head in shame. “I will tell you where it is.” He sighed. “Better yet, I will show you to the mortuary temple myself.”

Victory! Crocodile laughed. “Hahahaha…” He looked pleasantly surprised by this. “What virtuous ruler!” He turned to the woman standing next to him. “Nico Robin, why don’t you join him?”

“Why not?” She said with shrug. She suddenly pulled the nails holding the king in place out. The king fell to his knees in pain.

Vivi pushed Chaka’s hands away and rushed forward. “Papa!” She screamed.

“Who said you could move?” Crocodile snarled.

“Leave her be!” Chaka yelled transforming into a human-jackle hybrid and rushed forward quickly when suddenly a yell sounded.

“Gomu Gomu Iron Fists!”

A armament haki infused fist suddenly struck Crocodile on the face sending the sand powered warlord into the stone wall as Luffy suddenly jumped out of nowhere and landed next to a fallen Vivi. “Vivi get up! Go help your people!” He turned his attention back to the warlord. “He and I still have unfinished business.”

From above a hawk-like creature dove down and knocked the Princess and Chaka onto its back. “Pell!” Vivi cried out in surprise.

“You can thank that friend of yours that I’m alive.” Pell to the Princess. “After his last fight with Crocodile, he and his brother found me barely alive.”

“Old friend,” Chaka greeted him. “It is good to see you alive.” Chaka looked back towards the boy. “We must go to the mortuary temple. It’s where the king has been taken.”

“Shishishi.” Luffy laughed lightly as Crocodile slowly stood up. His lips were split, blood oozing out of the wound. Bringing his fingers to his lips, Crocodile laughed. It had been years since somebody had landed a hit on him.

“Kuhahaha.” The slow build up of a laugh sent chills down most people’s spines, but not Luffy’s. “Mugiwara, you are difficult one to shake off.” He flicked the blood from his fingers. “Yes, we do have unfinished business.” He threw his hand up, the wind around them sped up as the sands turned to a whirlwind. “You should have stayed away.” He went to strike with the sand when Luffy side-stepped it. Crocodile raised a brow thinking it was just by chance but he did it again and again.

“Gomu Gomu,” he pulled his fist back like he was going to give a normal punch, which Crocodile was ready for, when his fist suddenly expanded dramatically to the size of Crocodile’s body. The entire fist was haki covered and as it came in contact with Crocodile, instead of going through him, it made contact with him.

How? How is doing it? Crocodile wondered when suddenly he noticed something. The kid was wet.

“My turn still.” Luffy said as he cracked his knuckles. “Gomu Gomu!” He grinned as his hands went past Crocodile’s head this time to the top of the palace gates where he had, had Pell drop something. “Barrel Drench!” He pulled the barrel off of the gate and pulled it on top of the warlord. The bottom of the barrel broke, the water drenched Crocodile’s body as his head came out the other end.

“You-“ Crocodile began only for Luffy’s fist to connect with his middle through the barrel, breaking it. Crocodile stumbled backwards. How is he so much stronger than before!?

“Gomu Gomu, Storm!” Luffy’s fists began hitting Crocodile at an increasingly high speed that had the warlord gasping for breath.

How can he use haki!? Crocodile thought. Who taught him to use it this way!? Each fist was coated in armament, making his firsts feel like they were made from the strongest metal there was. Crocodile felt his strength waning and he needed a quick escape. As he was about to call another whirlwind, Luffy somehow knew what he was about to do.

“Not yet!” Luffy’ screamed as he blew himself up into a round ball, twisted his torso before releasing his breath, sending himself flying into the man in front of him, his fist outstretched, armament haki engaged as he slammed his fist into Crocodile’s body. The force behind this strike sent Crocodile into the gates behind him, destroying the centuries old gates and the wall around the palace.

Luffy’s arm snapped back to its original form. The young man stood over the unconscious form of the now defeated warlord. This gave him a new sense of accomplishment. He had defeated a warlord, which was one step under an emperor. Looking at his bloodied and bruised form, Luffy frowned. I need to get stronger. He thought as he tried to get his breathing under control. I need more training. He took a step to follow the others to the mortuary. I’ve got to help King Cobra, Vivi- His vision started to blur a bit. Not yet. He thought as he pushed his feet to move.

As soon as Vivi’s feet touched the ground she turned towards Pell. “Pell, there is a bomb in the center of town!” Vivi told the head guardsman. “Crocodile stated he had placed it in a place where it would kill both armies!”

The man looked horrified even with his zoan falcon form. “I will find it Princess!” He assured her as he took off in flight to the battlefield.

Vivi turned to her second guardsman. “Chaka, let’s go.” She said before taking off in a dead run. Hold on Papa. She thought praying to every deity that her father was still alive. Running down the stairs into the tomb of her ancestors, Vivi couldn’t help but feel awe struck by the designs of the temple. She’d only been here once before, after her grandfather’s death, they had come here to place his ashes with the ancestors, a tradition that dated back to over two or three thousand years.

As she raced through the mortuary the statue of Nefertari came into view. In one hand was a cube, the other hand a single finger pointing down. Finding the hidden lever, Vivi pulled it and revealed steps going down. As she ran down the steps she saw her father at the base of them, tied and bleeding.

Nico Robin turned towards the Princess giving her a passing glance. “This Poneglyph isn’t what Crocodile is looking for.” She stated as she read the runes with ease.

“You can read it?” Vivi asked amazed.

“I can.” Nico Robin confirmed. “It’s the story of your nation. The secrets it has held since the time of JoyBoy. There’s always an apology at the end.”

“Why an apology?” Vivi inquired truly curious. “Who is apologizing?”

Robin looked at her and smiled. “That’s a good question.” She stated. “The fact that you are here instead of Crocodile means he has failed.” She smiled. “I made a good gamble.”

“Gamble?” Vivi inquired. “Luffy?”

“Before the fighting began, I helped him escape Crocodile that first time.” She turned back to the stone cube. “I’m glad I helped him. In doing so I may have inadvertently given him an edge against Crocodile.”

“How?” Cobra asked. “You still attacked us.”

“A woman always has her options kept open.” She stated as she walked towards them. “I have been hunted since I was a child because of my ability to read these things. I have to keep my options open for when those I trust turn against me.” She went to leave.

“You think I’ll let you leave after what you’ve done to my father!?” Vivi asked as Chaka helped the king stand.

“Vivi!” Luffy rushed down the steps towards her, his body bloody still as he came to a stop when he spotted Robin.

“Strawhat Luffy.” She greeted. “It would seem my fate has fallen into your hands.” Luffy cocked his head at her. “Will you turn me over to the government or will you let me go free?” I’m worth too much for him to free me. He’s like any other. She thought not believing she could trust this boy.

“Hmm…” Luffy thought intently. “If you go free, where will you go? Will you end up working for another warlord worse than Crocodile or will you end up all alone? If I turn you over, the navy might decide to arrest me too!” He laughed lightly.

“Luffy!” Vivi cried out horrified he’d think she’d allow that to happen.

He waved Vivi’s concerns away. “I know!” He smiled. “You could join my crew! You’re neat anyway! Plus it’d be a way for you to repay Vivi by helping her friends out.” He grinned.

“Wait!? What!?” Robin and Vivi asked unison.

Robin was shocked. Surely this is a joke. But the look on his face told her that he very serious.

“Luffy! She helped Crocodile!” Vivi screamed at him.

“Not by choice.” Luffy said as he took his hat off and began playing with the rim. “He was threatening her. Am I right?” He asked looked at Robin.

Robin gave a light chuckle. “How did you know?” She inquired quite curious.

“Crocodile isn’t one to have friends unless he got them through nefarious means.” Luffy said as he placed his hat back on his head. “My guess, he either threatened to turn you in unless you worked for him or you owed him for saving your life or something.”

“He threatened to turn me in.” She admitted. “Are you sure you want someone like me with my reputation as a member of your crew?”

Vivi looked at Luffy and saw him grin. “We’re all wanted in some way, shape or form.” Luffy told her. “I can see you’ll be slot of fun to have onboard. Shishishi.” He laughed when suddenly they all heard an explosion.

Rushing to the entrance of the mortuary temple, the small group saw fire in the sky as the bomb that Crocodile had warned them about exploded. Falling to the ground was the headpiece that Pell had been wearing, scorched and covered in blood. Vivi cried out. “Pell!” Tears leaked freely from her eyes as the day’s events finally caught up to her.

“I need a nap.” Luffy suddenly stated as he finally succumbed to his injuries and fell onto the ground. Nico Robin caught him with her multiple hands springing from the ground.

What a strange little man you are, Monkey D. Luffy. She smiled softly at the unconscious boy. I wonder what else you’ll do.

Chapter Text

Chapter 27: Separation

The day after the events of the battles in Alabasta, Ace was keeping a close eye on the defeated Crocodile when Sabo came into the room. “I’ve got to go back to headquarters and talk with Dragon.” Ace raised an eye brow at him. “What?”

Crocodile raised his head from his chest at the mention of the revolutionary leaders name. “I’m surprised you’re still working with the guy.” Ace stated. A year ago he had discovered the truth of Luffy’s beginnings when one of pop’s men, the twelfth division commander Haruta, got caught by Garp and the old man was talking about Luffy to an even older guy. It had been by chance that he had been the one pops had sent to get Haruta free.

“The man abandoned his own flesh and blood!” Ace growled at his brother.

Sabo frowned at him. “I know!” He yelled before repeating it lowly. “I know.” He looked at his brother. “But if he hadn’t Luffy never would have found us or become a pirate.” He shrugged his shoulder. “Call it fate or whatever, but we wouldn’t be his brothers had Dragon never made that decision.”

“What did you say?” Crocodile asked looking as if they had just turned his whole world upside down.

“Aren’t you supposed to be unconscious?” Ace asked, not sounding surprised that he wasn’t but with those sea stone chains on him, the man should’ve been somewhat exhausted or something.

“Are you saying that Strawhat is Dragon’s son!?” Crocodile asked in a demanding voice.

The brothers eyed each other. “Blood son yes.” Ace answered.

“He abandoned him when he was a toddler though.” Sabo stated matter-o-factly. “He’s never had contact with him and not until six months ago did Luffy know about it.”

Crocodile looked heartbroken. Absolutely devastated, which confused the hell out of the brothers. “Why do you want to know?” Ace inquired wondering what the warlord was cooking up. The man shook his head at him, not answering.

He lived. Crocodile thought. I thought- He suddenly gnashed his teeth together. Dragon will pay.

During the three days after the rebel incited war, Luffy finally woke up. Cracking his eyes open he instantly regretted it. The sun shone brightly through the sheen curtains that were blowing from the wind. His whole body ached worse than when he trained with Sabo. Turning his head, Luffy saw Nami napping with her head on his bed and Ace’s hat on her head.

“She’s refused to leave your side this whole time.” Zoro’s voice sounded nearby. Looking towards the top of the bed Luffy saw his best friend leaning against the wall with his arms over his chest.

“Shishishi.” Luffy laughed quietly. “Good to know.” He said quietly. “The others? How did they fair?”

Zoro look contemplative for a second. “Chopper bandaged everyone up. The idiot cook survived. Usopp was hurt the worse.” Zoro pondered for a moment more. “Your brothers are amazing by the way. Only Sabo took a hit, but he’s no worse for ware.” He shrugged. “Other than that Vivi is taking control of the situation by helping her father help rebuild.”

“Nico Robin?” Luffy questioned.

“Vanished.” Zoro answered with a shrug not really caring.

Luffy wasn’t too surprised. “I’m sure we’ll see her again soon.” He gave his friend one of those knowing looks.

“I doubt it.” He stated giving his captain a doubtful look.

Nami suddenly sat up, Ace’s hat falling to the bedside as the bandage on her forehead rumpled from her sleep when her eyes met her captain’s. “Luffy!” She cried out as she launched herself at him, hugging the young captain tightly before her teeth became like that of a sharks. “WHAT THE HELL WERE YOU THINKING!? GOING OFF LIKE THAT! WORRYING US!” Her hands went around his neck as she screamed at him.

Suddenly Vivi came rushing into the room upon hearing Nami’s screams. “Luffy!” She yelled happily.

Luffy stretched his neck to look over Nami’s head at her. “Hi Vivi!” He waved at her.

“DON’T YOU DARE ACT SO NONCHALANTLY AT ME AFTER BEING ASLEEP FOR THREE DAYS AND WORRYING US!!!” She screamed at him, joining Nami in chastising the young captain.

Usopp walked into the room with Sanji. The two looked better than they had three days ago, though sniper was still covered in bandages. “Oh! Luffy’s awake!” Usopp was stopped from approaching as Zoro stopped him. The three men watched as the girls continued to yell at the younger man.

Just then a large woman with curly blonde hair walked into the room with a wheeled cart that had food on it. All the strawhats that were in the room looked at her with confusion as she looked like someone they knew. “Isn’t that Igaram?” Usopp asked the other two.

“I think that’s a woman.” Zoro stated, sounding uncertain.

“That’s Igaram in drag.” Sanji told them, very confident in that.

The woman smiled friendly at them. “Actually my name is Terracotta.” She told them gaining slack jawed responses from the three. “Igaram is my husband.”

“They say couples tend to begin looking alike after many years together.” Zoro stated after recovering from the shock of the situation.

“Food?” Luffy asked as the girls were done fusing over him.

“You all looked hungry so I thought I would bring a few carts of fresh fruit and meat for you.” She stated as the servants brought in two more carts, one of which had meat and was closest to Luffy.

Luffy stretched his arm quickly and shoveled the whole cart of meat into his mouth in one swoop. “Thanks that was a tasty treat.”

“HE ATE IT ALL!!” Usopp and Zoro cried out in shock. They hadn’t even gotten a chance to sample the cart.

“Well, Luffy is an empty pit.” Vivi stated nervously. Hoping the feast she planned would have plenty of food for everyone.

“YOU IDIOT! STOP EATING EVERYTHING WITHOUT A THOUGHT FOR US!” Sanji yelled at his stupid captain.

“I didn’t touch the other carts.” Luffy said with a grin. “Besides, I’ve missed fifteen meals since I’ve slept for three days.”

“How is that fifteen meals!?” Sanji asked confused.

“Luffy logic.” Came a voice from the balcony window next to Luffy.

“ACE!” Luffy yelled excitedly when he saw something under Ace’s arm. “Chopper?”

“Hehehe.” Chopper laughed as he wiggled out of Ace’s grip. “Your brother offered to help me get up here quickly.”

Ace noticed Luffy wince as he moved to lay back down as Chopper jumped onto the floor and began to walk over to the young man. He handed Luffy a liquid in a vile. “This should help with stiffness and any pain you’re feeling from the fight.” Luffy took the blue liquid and slurped it down. He shivered at the taste, giving his doctor a disgusted look. “Sorry. I didn’t have time to give it a better flavor. I’ve been so busy reading all of the medical books they have here.”

“If you’d like I can have some medical journals compiled for you to take.” Terracotta offered.

Stars were seen in Choppers eyes. “Really!?” The reindeer suddenly looked shy. “Even if you do that it doesn’t mean I like you or anything! You jerk, I’m not happy or anything!” His excitement getting the best of him as he danced happily.

Yes you are. Everyone thought.

“Oh! A snack.” Ace stated as he just noticed the fruit on the carts and went to take some.

“DON’T YOU DARE!” Nami screamed at him. “YOUR BROTHER ALREADY ATE ONE CART! WE AREN’T LETTING YOU OR SABO SNAG THE OTHER TWO!”

Ace backed away from the young woman with his hand raised in surrender. “Okay, okay.” He looked at Luffy. “What did you do?” He asked him. Luffy shrugged at him.

“I ate a snack.” Luffy answered.

“He ate the entire cart of meat!” Usopp complained his stomach rumbled.

“I’ll bring another cart.” Terracotta chuckled as the group thanked her.

Shaking his head, Ace turned towards Luffy. “I’m going to be leaving.” He stated as he ruffled his brother’s messy oily hair. “Try not to cause too much trouble.”

“Shishishi.” Luffy laughed happily. “Where’s the fun in that?”

Ace then bowed towards the group. “Again, thanks for taking care of my kid brother I know he’s a handful.”

“No, not at all.” The group said in unison.

“Come on, we all know how he is.” He teased them. “After all, it’s a big brother’s job to worry about their younger ones.” He looked pointedly at Luffy and punched his shoulder lightly. “See ya later, little bro.”

Luffy bumped his fist against Ace’s outstretched fist. “Later!”

Vivi stepped out of the group. “Are you sure you don’t want to stay for the banquet?” She asked. “Papa was adamant in thanking everyone for their help.”

“As tasty as food sounds, I’ll pass.” He then grinned, “But I’ll take a kiss on the cheek if you’re willing to give one to a dirty ole pirate like me.”

Vivi giggled before walking up to him, standing on her tip toes she gave him a peck on the cheek. “Is that all?” She asked sweetly.

Ace’s cheeks were red, he hadn’t actually expected her to do that, being a Princess and all. Luffy’s changed her. He thought as he grabbed his hat from Luffy’s bed. “Yep.” He grinned as he turned and jumped out of the balcony window to the ground before leaving. Wonder what the guy’s have been doing all week. He hadn’t been in communication with either his division or with Marco. Hope bird brain ain’t too pissed at me. He groused as he ran to find a caravan heading towards the coast. Oh well. He thought as a smile graced his lips.

Chapter Text

Chapter 28: Fate Comes Calling

Ace sat on a rocking chair in front of a store. Pops had asked him to come to Banaro Island with Izo and the second division to check in on the citizens. The old west type town, which Ace had learned was called Tombstone, was a quaint little town. It kind of reminded Ace of Foosha. He smiled friendly as a man with cowboy boots and hat walked up to him. The man wore a badge with the word mayor on it. “Sorry it’s taken me so long to come see you, Mr. Second Commander.”

Ace gave him a deadpanned look. “It’s Ace.”

“What is?” The mayor asked.

“My name.” Ace answered. “Portgas D. Ace.” Izo chuckled behind a paper fan in his hands.

“Oh!” The mayor said with a bit of shock. “Are you sure?” He questioned gaining an annoyed look from Ace.

“Positive.” The annoyed look deepened on Ace’s face.

“Oh, okay.” The mayor looked nervous now. “I’m sorry.”

Ace took a deep breath to calm himself down. “It’s okay.” He waved it off. “Pops said that you were having problems here.” He looked around the calm town. “But it looks quiet right now.”

Izo looked around and noticed that the town seemed deserted. Oh no. He thought as every instinct kicked in. “It’s a trap!” He yelled out as Marines suddenly started coming out of the buildings. Mad Dog Akainu standing amongst them looking proud at capturing them.

He dopped a bag of money into the mayors hands. “The World Government thanks you.” He said as he turned towards the two pirates.

Ace felt his heart hammering in his chest. This is it. He thought. This is how the end comes for me. He growled causing Izo to look at him.

“Finally, the son of Gold Roger is in our hands.” The admiral spat. “You worthless worm thought you could actually live when that monster existed. Did you really think your allies wouldn’t give you up once they knew whose blood ran through your veins?”

“It doesn’t matter whose blood is in him!” Izo yelled at the admiral. “He is the son of Whitebeard! You do this and Pops will have your head for it!”

Suddenly the man lifted his hand, it turned to magma as he activated the Magu Magu no me fruit. “Do you think I care what a bastard such as your Pops thinks?” He stated before thrusting his hand forward.

Ace’s widened. “No!” He screamed infighting his flames, but instead of the flames being red like normal Ace used his awakened form. His body was suddenly covered in blue and violet fire, the hottest of flames. The flame and magma clashed. “Combustion Blast!” The blue flame suddenly overpowered the magma, sending a shockwave outward towards Akainu and his men. Ace’s flames grew so hot that the ground beneath his feet began to melt.

The heat being put off even surprised Izo. How is he even alive? He thought as he stated in wonderful. “I’m not letting you touch me or my older brother.” Izo’s head snapped towards Ace. This was the first time Ace had referred to him as his brother; instead of friend. “Yes, I am Gol D. Roger’s blood born son; but my father is Edward Newgate; Whitebeard! I use to think I was dirty for my blood, but my family has made me see that I am better than the man I share my blood with!” His face was alight with his flames that swirled in a dance around him. “You want to kill me because of a man that I never knew? Fine, but at least get my name right you pig! It’s Portgas D. Fucking Ace!” He slammed his fist into the ground, sending flames downwards, a moment later a giant geyser exploded out of the ground between the Marines. The geyser flooded the area with blue flames. Men screamed as the twenty-eight thousand degree fire hit their bodies. Akainu was forced the either flee or fight and he wasn’t going to tuck tail.

Snarling the magma user jumped and slammed his fist down upon Ace’s head only for Ace to activate armament haki and surround his arms and torso with his flames. “If I surrender my power to you or the government, then there was no point in me being a man.” Ace stated. “You can come at me as much as you like but it will be useless!” Becoming an inferno of flames Ace pushed Akainu away and actually burned the magma user.

Shit! Izo thought, his shock wearing off. When did Ace get this strong? He stared in wonder and amazement. It had been over a year or so since the young man had fought their Pops and been forced to join their group. Has nobody noticed him training all this time?

“I’m not ready to die!” Ace growled. “I have yet to see my little brother become the King of the Pirates and completely destroy your government! So come on, you fucking asshole! Fight me! Because I’m not going down without a fight!”

Izo saw from his place behind Ace, a few snipers taking aim at his younger brother. Pulling his revolver out, he fired a shot at one, hitting the young Marine between the eyes; killing him instantly. The second one shot at Ace but the bullets melted before they could reach him. Behind them Izo noticed that the building had caught fire. He looked at himself and noticed he wasn’t affected by Ace’s flames. Something to ask about later. He thought as he loaded his pistol again. Afterwords he pulled his denden out and quickly dialed for backup.

“What?” Came the tired voice.

“Jozu! Get help! The second division has been taken out! Ace and I are surrounded by Akainu’s men!” He quickly yelled into the denden. “Tell Pop it was a trap!” The denden was suddenly shot out of his hand, the tiny snail creature killed. Izo turned and shot the second sniper, hitting the Marine in his shoulder disallowing him to be able to shoot for a moment.

Ace suddenly pushed his flames outwards from his body, the fire making a wall of flames around him and Izo. “Are you good?” Ace asked him feeling a bit drained. He’d been training this ability for months, going to the first islands to train it but it still put a strain on his body to be at this temperature.

“Yeah.” Izo said noticing how nice the heat felt. It wasn’t burning or harming him but rather was like a blanket covering him in its warmth. “When did you learn this?”

Ace chuckled. “Awhile back I learned that a certain fate was coming to me and if I wanted to avoid it I needed to gain more strength.” He stated as he began to pant lightly. “So I trained in secret. I wanted to show Marco and Pops that I was getting stronger one day soon. Then I fully awakened my fruit and this new ability appeared. I can change the temperature of my flames now, which changes the color. This is my ultimate form.”

“Pretty impressive.” Izo grinned, feeling proud of his little brother.

“I also learned how to use my haki better, thanks to a certain red haired fiend.” Ace chuckled as he mentioned Shanks causing Izo to raise a delicate brow at him.

“Oh? I bet that was fun.” His grinned getting bigger.

“Not exactly.” Ace groaned at the memories of Shanks’ training instructions going from intense fighting one day to eating and drinking the next. “I’m going to create an escape for us, I need you to stay behind me so I don’t burn you.”

Izo looked at him, a frown appearing on his face. “Burn me?” He inquired.

Ace chuckled. “Haven’t you wondered why you’re not being affected by my powers?” He asked as looked over his shoulder at the cross-dresser. “You’re in my blind spot. The area that’s safe from my hottest flames.” He smiled as he tipped his hat back. “Why do you think I’ve been shifting to keep you back there this whole time? It’s not only the safest spot, it’s my weak point and you’re protecting it.”

Now he understood why Ace kept subtly moving to keep him shielded. “I see.” He turned his back to Ace’s. “I’ll keep you safe little brother.”

Ace grinned under his hat. “Yes, I know you will.” He returned his attention towards the marines in front of him. “Problem is, I only have a minute or two left in this form. I’m going to create an explosion of flame and fire. When I say so, we’ll escape into a hole below us.”

Izo nodded. “Understood.” He then looked at the bullets in his hand. “I have five shots left.”

“Right.” Ace then held his hand outward, one in front of him and another to his right. Pulling all the energy he had left in him, he focused on the small haki energies that were in front of him. He may not be the best at observation haki, but he could at least do a better job at using it than most novices. His body began to glow brightly as the energy built up higher and higher, his flames grew hotter and higher. Soon the flames engulf the entirety of the town square they were in.

Ace panted. If he pulled this off and they escaped, he hoped this would change his fate. “Inferno Combustion!” A white flash of heat and fire shot out from his palms in the direction they were facing, destroying the land, town and anything else in its path. It rolled over the land like a tsunami over water. The marines who were in its way had no chance to escape as their bodies were cooked, their internal organs baking, and turning to dust.

Those left alive stared in awe at the destruction left behind. Akainu snarled as he slammed his fist into a tree that instantly turned to powder, the moisture in the air dry from the sudden destruction of fire. Tombstone was wiped from the island, as if it never existed. At the epicenter of the town where the two men had stood, a hole had appeared and swallowed the pirates up. At the bottom of the pit Ace laid unconscious on Izo’s lap, the young commander having depleted his entire supply of energy in that last attack. Exhausted, he slumbered as his friend and elder brother watched over him.

Izo looked at Ace once more before looking in his hand at the remaining bullets. He knew Sakazuki Akainu would not stop looking until he found them. He would be their final line of defense until Pops arrived. It was going to be a long night.

Chapter Text

Chapter 29: Changing Fate

Sabo yawned as he sat down on the couch in his tiny apartment at the revolutionary headquarters. It had been a month since the Alabasta incident and Dragon had, had him working nonstop the whole time from movement of troops in the North blue to placing people into the South blue to gaining access to the Holy Land Mary Geoise so that they could get into the city and free the slaves there. Sabo’s head hurt and his body ached from the fighting he had done when he’d come into contact with Bartolomeo the Cannibal. That man was as crazy as he was strong with his Bari Bari no Mi fruit. The impenetrable barrier made fighting the man in a fair fight almost impossible. It was only when the other had learned that Sabo was Luffy’s older brother did the green haired menace stop fighting him. He only came in contact with the man by accident in the South blue.

Just as Sabo was about to drink his tea the double doors to his apartment open to reveal Koala. The young woman ran into the room with a rolled up Coo News Newspaper in hand. She then threw it at him. “Your older twin is in trouble.” She stated.

Ace? He wondered as he looked at the paper. The headline read, Portgas D. Ace; Dead or Missing? “Ace?” he questioned as his felt tears well up in his eyes. He read the article which stated Ace and another pirate had been betrayed by an islander who turned them over to the World Government but the two had fought, destroying the town of Tombstone, setting the island on fire with blue flames and almost killing Akainu. Sabo saw red. “Akainu!” He snarled. He knew what future Luffy had told Ace about him dying. Was it Akainu? Was this event that would kill Ace?

Sabo stood suddenly before reaching over and grasping his denden. “Koala, tell Dragon I’ve gone to Banaro Island. Ace needs me.” He grabbed his blue jacket from the back of his couch. “I won’t lose my brother.”

“You didn’t read the whole thing!” Koala yelled pointing towards the second article. Big bold letter read, STRAWHAT PIRATES GONE MISSING. Sabo froze at the words. Luffy? No.No.No.No! The newspaper ripped in his hands as his top hat fell from his head. Think. Think. He looked at the window, a breeze of fresh air hit him. Taking a deep breath, he gathered his thoughts. “I will get to Ace first and then I’ll find Luffy.” He tossed the pieces of paper to the floor before leaving. As he brushed past Koala, he paused. “Find red haired, ask him if he knows where Luffy could be hiding and if he asked who is asking, tell him it’s for Luffy’s other brother.” He then walked out of the room without waiting for her to say anything. He knew what she’d say any way and he wasn’t having her come with him. These were his brothers and he’d be damned before he’d lose either one of them ever again!

Izou woke up to the sound of Ace’s stomach growling. The young man was sound asleep with his head on the samurai’s lap. The sound of his stomach was like a large wild animal snarling in warning. Gently he tapped Ace’s shoulder only to hear the other groan. “Ace.” Izou whispered his name. No response that time. Grasping the freckled teen’s ear, he pulled. “Ace!” He growled into his ear.

This time Ace jumped as he sat up looking for the threat. Ace noticed that it was only him and Izou in the cavern. “Izo? What the hell man?!” He groaned as he grasped his head in pain. “I’m not ready to get up.” He stated as he laid back onto the ground this time.

“We need to move or else we will be caught.” Izou said as he stood up. He looked up at the collapsed tunnel above them. “We fell into a tunnel that you created. By the way, nice attack.”

With his eyes closed Ace smiled. “Thanks.” He said with tiredness evident in his voice. “Took me six months of training to realize that my fruit wasn’t fully awakened.” He tried sitting up only for a wave of nausea to hit him. “That was the first time outside of training that I have used that particular ability.” He sighed as he laid back down. “I’m not moving for awhile.” He closed his eyes. “You can go. I’ll be fine.”

Izou frowned at him before loading his gun. “Not happening, little brother.” He said as he took up watch from the only other possible exit to the cavern they were in. “You’re my family. Besides, Pops would get upset if I left you behind.”

Ace gave him a tired grin. “True.” He mumbled. “And Marco would get his tail feathers in a bunch if you left.”

Izou gave a snort at that image. His best friend would do that. The high strung bastard. Silence fell over them before Ace’s snores were once again reverberating against the walls as Izo stayed waiting for the attack he was certain was coming.

Luffy groaned as he bathed after the fight he had, had against Hancock’s sisters. Those two were a lot of fun. He thought as he let the water soak into his body. He had a minute before the effects of the water began weakening him. After Alabasta, and then Ennies Loby which led to one adventure after another, it was nice to relax a little. Still, I have to find my crew. He thought as he reached for a towel. Getting out of the hot spring, Luffy wrapped the towel around his waist before walking out of the bathing room into the main bedroom. The huge bed screamed at him to come rest but he was really worried about his friends.

Standing on the balcony he inhaled the scent of food and instantly his belly began to rumble. “Shishishi.” He laughed. Dinner time. He grabbed his clothes, remembering that girls didn’t like to see naked men. Something Nami had said about losing her appetite at seeing his naked body. He didn’t see anything wrong with it. Heck Ace and him use to run and hunt naked in their early teens until Makino and Dadan got after them. Maybe it was just a girl thing.

He couldn’t wait to eat the feast with the girls. Maybe they’d sing that song Brook had taught me and the others. It kind of is like the song Shanks taught me as a kid. He ran out of his room, down the hall to where the delicious scents were coming from. The huge hall was filled with girls and most importantly food! “Yum!” He cried out as he ran into the room and took up a spot next to his new friends.

The young blonde woman, Marguerite if he remembered right, was sitting next to him talking as the food was passed along. His stomach rumbled even as he ate. Luffy had noticed that since learning from Sabo a year ago that he needed more food to eat. It wasn’t that he was being a glutton, like Sanji complained he was, but because he needed to replace all the energy he used in his attacks.

He was small, even compared to his two brothers, tiny compared to Garp. How am I supposed to get stronger, bigger even if I can’t eat more? His friends needed him stronger! An idea popped into his head. What if I ask Rayleigh for help? Sabo taught me what he knows. So maybe I could get the former Pirate King’s first mate to do the same? He frowned. But how?

A very large woman wearing a coat around her shoulders, like Marine Officers, that has a very square, thick chin and her hair in pigtails looked at the frown on Luffy’s face. “Luffy? Is the food not good?” She asked. She’d only seen a look like that on people who had eaten bad food.

“Huh?” Luffy looked up at the larger woman confused. “It’s good, why?” He asked confused.

“Because you look like you’re in pain while eating.” She replied as she took a bite of the food herself.

“Sweet Pea, leave him be.” The child-like girl next to her spoke.

“But Aphelandra-“ Sweet Pea began only to be interrupted by Luffy.

“I appreciate the worry, but I’m fine.” He stated. “I’m just worried about my friends.” He said quietly. He then noticed something after inhaling most everything he’d been given which had doubled his size and given him a rounded appearance. “I thought this was a party?”

“It is.” Marguerite said softly as she stared at him in awe, even the black and green snake on her arm seemed to be awestruck by his new appearance.

“Where’s the music then!?” He huffed getting annoyed. “You girls needed to learn to let loose and be loud! Make music that makes your body move!”

“We don’t do that.” Aphelandra stated. “Why should we?”

“Because it’s fun!” He yelled. Grabbing some pots and pans from the different pans, causing some girls to gasp in surprise, Luffy began bagging them and singing the song Brook had taught the, Bink’s Sake. His voice was off key, but the words were right on. The guards had thought he was going to attack them until he began dancing and singing. Within minutes he had the entire dinning hall laughing and singing with him.

Now this is more like it. He thought happily as the warmth in his chest spread. The joy around him made the young pirate captain want to bounce and jump and move like he shouldn’t but before he could Boa Hancock’s personal guards came to him. Without explaining why, they ushered him out and into the hall.

“Empress Boa needs to see you immediately!” One cried out. “She seems to be sick!”

Luffy gasped. “How?”

An old woman approached him. He’d seen her before but had forgotten her name. Was is Gorgy? No, Glory? Luffy frowned again. Why was he so bad with remembering names!?

“I believe it’s a Love sickness.” She said. “Lady Empress Tritoma died from it.” The guards and Luffy looked at her in horror.

Not good. Luffy thought. “What can I do to help?”

This boy wants to help? Gloriosa stared in wonder. Perhaps he is different from the other men of this world. It would be a nice change for once. “There’s no cure, however you could start off by talking with the Empress.”

Luffy grinned. “I can do that.” He agreed. He liked talking to people. Maybe she’ll like to hear about my adventures I’ve had with my crew. He thought as he followed the old woman and the guards completely unaware of what was happening with his family and his friends.

Sabo looked at the navigational maps in front of him. He may not be the best navigator but he knew his way around the seas, that was one of his lessons that Dragon had insisted that most recruits went through. It was important for them to know their way to and from the islands, basically getting from point A to point B without detection without having to go through check points or stopping at smaller islands in order to get to their main objective.

He was currently drawing out the quickest route in order to get to Banaro Island. The island itself sat in the center of what was dubbed no man’s land between the boundaries of Red Haired Shanks and Whitebeard’s territory. He really hoped Shanks would show up because one his presence alone would deter any fighting and two, Sabo had yet to meet the Emperor in order to thank him for saving Luffy as a kid.

Still, Whitebeard might show up just because the island was closer to his territory. Sabo would like to avoid a war between two Yonko. Then there was is second worry, Luffy. The article hadn’t said much, just that after a fight with Admiral Kuzan, the Strawhats had vanished when Warlord Kuma had appeared. Sabo rubbed his hands over his face to try and calm down. He needed to gather his thoughts. His fingers curled into his blonde hair as he tried to steady his breathing.

“Are you okay Sabo?” Koala’s voice snapped him back to where he was.

“Koala?” He questioned as she walked into the captain’s quarters. “You shou-“

She suddenly grasped his face, squishing it so he couldn’t speak. “If you say I shouldn’t be here, you’re wrong.” She told him. “Your brothers are your family and you’re my best friend and friends help each other out!” She released his face. “Besides, this could be fun.”

“Fun?” He asked as he felt a knot form on his forehead. “Knowing those two, I’m either going to die helping them or they’re going to start a war.”

“Like I said, fun.” She winked at him as she looked over the maps with him. “Probably should tell you though, we’ve already left port and I may have not told Dragon what’s going on.”

“Wait. What!” He shouted causing her to giggle.

“Oops.” She said with a semi-sweet smile.

With resigned sigh Sabo nodded. “Okay.” He looked out the window of the room and knew they were too far out to actually go back to shore. It was times like this he wished he had a devil fruit that would allow him to teleport people or things. It would be so much easier if he did.

“Please tell me you are the only one to come aboard.” He asked as he turned to look at her he could see she was looking away from him and doing that dance she does when trying to avoid suspicion from him. “Who else?”

Rubbing the back of her neck, Koala laughed nervously. “Well..”

Sabo felt sweat drip down his neck. Oh he was greatfull towards his friends for following him into the fire, sort of speak; but Dragon was going to kill him for this. He walked out of the captain’s cabin and saw two more of his friends waiting for him; Hack and Lindbergh. He gave them both a bow. “Thank-you! Both of you, for this!”

“Are you kidding!?” Lindbergh growled. “That brother took two of my nine lives from me, consider this me wanting them back.”

The old instructor snorted. “I may be old, but there’s still some fight left in me.” The fish-man smirked. “I may yet have something to teach you youngsters.”

Lindbergh made a face. “Yeah right. More like you need one last hurrah before becoming Seaking food.”

Hack looked horrified at those words. “I’m going to make you eat dirt for those words.” He growled lightly at the mink.

“What’s that?” Lindbergh asked holding a hand up to his ear. “I think I hear food talking.”

Sabo held a hand over his mouth to stop from laughing at the two grown men arguing. Koala growled as she walked onto the deck with her hands on her hips. “Stop arguing like children you two!” She looked at their old instructor. “You’re only here because you threatened to blackmailed Lindbergh and I.” The older man grinned. “That’s not something to be proud of!” She yelled at him.

“You still brought me.” He then looked at Sabo. “Also this way I know young Sabo will return to his post after saving his brother; even if that brother is a Whitebeard Pirate.”

Sabo was shocked. “You think I wouldn’t return?”

“If it means to be near your brother, yes.” The fish-man answered honestly. “Frankly I think you have an obsession with your two brothers.” He eyed the young man. “You might want to talk about that with someone.”

Sabo gave him a deadpanned look. “No.” He then walked back into the captain’s cabin.

“Admission is the first step in admitting you have a problem boy!” Hack yelled in frustration at the closed door.

Both Lindbergh and Koala gave each other a look. “I’m going to go look at some stuff I brought with me to improve my flightsuit.” Lindbergh said not wanting to touch this subject.

“Yeah. I’ll go do some training on deck.” Koala agreed as the two left the old fish-man instructor to talking to the closed door and Sabo ignoring said man.

Chapter Text

Chapter 30: Freedom

Future

Leaving Momo’s palace, Luffy and Zoro joined their friends in celebration of the new freedoms that the people of Wano would be having. No longer having to starve, the people could now eat the fruits of their labor. With the factories now closed the lakes, rivers and ponds would soon heal and give forth healthy drinkable water once more. Luffy was given a jug of sake, which he handed to Zoro. He never liked the taste of liquor. However, it was replaced by a large cup of juice by Sanji who laughed as he slapped his friends back. No longer the child he once was Momo wanted to drink with his friends like he remembered his father once doing. As Luffy put the cup to his lips a buzzing noise filled his mind. Voices began to tune out until he heard nothing. That was when words echoed through Luffy’s mind. His brother’s last words.

“Could you tell them what I’m about to say now? Pops! Everyone! And you Luffy.” Ace said as he hung onto Luffy. Blood from his brother’s chest dripped to the icy ground of Marineford. The stench of burnt flesh rose into the air filling Luffy’s lungs. The knowledge that this was his brother’s scent made his stomach roll and flip, wanting to empty itself.

“Thank-you, for loving someone like me who is a good for nothing and who has such bad blood in his veins up to today.” Ace’s voice began fading quickly. “Thank-you!” He gasped, tears freely falling from his eyes. He didn’t want to leave but was left with no choice. There had been so much he had wanted to do, to see; including seeing Luffy reach his goal. His arms began going slack as bloodloss weakened him. “Thank-you.” He whispered once more as his final breath left him and he fell from Luffy’s arms to the cold ground.

Suddenly the memory froze in place. The heartbreak of that day and pain from not just one brother but from those who had sacrificed themselves to save the young man, suddenly was yanked and pulled away as a man appeared before Luffy’s eyes turned and grinned at him. His own grin matching that man’s as he clanked his cup with his.

Past

When Ace woke up again it was to the sounds of bombs going off. “Wha-“ he began when he felt Izo place a hand over his mouth.

“Shh.” Izou hushed him. “The marines are still hunting us.” He stated. “They haven’t figured out where we are but I guess they found that our ship was still here.”

Ace nodded. “Any word from Pops on ETA?” He asked quietly.

“My transponder snail was destroyed.” The cross dresser sighed sadly before pushing a stray hair out of his eyes. “Are you okay?” He asked looking at the younger man.”

“Achey, hungry, a little weak; but otherwise fine.” Ace responded as he sat up. “My head is killing me.” He groaned. “How long has it been?”

“Two or three days.” Izou answered with a shrug. “I can’t really tell down here.”

Ace looked around himself before chuckling. “This place, it reminds me of a cave Lu and I discovered when we were kids. We got lost in it for a week; felt like a month. ‘Kino was so mad at us for worrying her and Dadan. She threatened us with no sweets for a year!” He grinned as he looked over towards Izou. “She gave in after two hours and gave us each a cupcake for surviving the ordeal.”

Izou smiled softly. Ace had been sharing at random little snippets of his childhood here and there with certain people in the crew since finding his missing brother over a year ago. Most of stories revolved around his little brother; Luffy. “You’re a bit obsessed with your little brother; aren’t you?” He teased lightly.

Ace flushed red. “Maybe.” He admitted. “As the eldest of three, it’s my job to worry about my two idiot brothers.”

Izou chuckled. “Same goes for Marco with us.” He stated as he sat on the ground. His kimono was practically destroyed. The fabric ripped and torn. It saddened him. “Marco always worries. I think that boy is going to worry himself into an early grave and being an immortal Phoenix, that’s something.”

Ace grinned. “I can see that.” He said groggily. Pushing himself into a standing position, Ace felt another wave of nausea hit him. Shaking it off, he knew it was from lack of food in his stomach. They needed to get to a safer place. Shuffling his feet towards where he could sense Izo, Ace stopped next to the samurai to look into the tunnel that led to who knows where. “Think this leads to the sea?” He asked with a cheeky grin.

“Guess we’ll have to find out.” He stated as he stood as well. “There’s no honor in hiding like cowards only to die of starvation.”

Ace held a hand over his stomach. “Yeah. I can agree with that.” Holding his hand out, he called forth a small flame to help see where they were going.

“Is that wise?” Izou inquired gaining a chuckle from the younger man.

“Hell no.” Ace said with a sigh. “But we’re not falling to our deaths either.” Placing a hand on the cavern wall, the two began walking slowly through the darkened cave system until they came to a huge cavernous space with deep gouges in the ground. “My fire didn’t do this.” He brightened the fire in hand to see better. “It’s like swiss cheese.” He said pointing towards the vaulted ceiling of the cave.

Izou stared in awe. “It’s like Pop’s home island.” He muttered.

“Pop’s home island is like this?” Ace asked. “This is a precursor to a sinkhole.” He pressed his hand onto the cavern wall wall. “It’s limestone.” Izou raised an eyebrow in questioning what this meant. “It’s a weaker, porous stone that cracks easily.”

“How do you know that?” Izou asked gaining a chuckled from him.

“Makino gave me a book once and told me to read it or I wouldn’t be allowed to eat at her place anymore without paying my tab.” He shook his head at the memory. “I couldn’t read very well, but I did as I was told. It was a book on rocks. My first book I ever finished.” He grinned. “She forgave my tab once I finished the book.”

“Sounds like a tricky woman.” Izou responded as they found a way across the empty spaces of the cave. “Scary too.”

Ace’s eyes softened. “She is.” He agreed before they both went silent. The hollow bottomless pit beneath them had a natural stone bridge that allowed them to walk across the gaping holes in the ground.

“M-Maybe dim the fire.” Izou stuttered as they headed towards a ledge that looked to have another tunnel system.

Without looking behind himself, Ace could practically feel Izou’s nervousness. “Don’t want to fall.” He stated lowly. “If I can’t see, I just may.”

Izou wanted to hit the teen but refrained from using violence against him. Taking a deep calming breath, Izou pressed his shaky legs to go forward. Once they crossed the bridge, they both were happy to finally be on some solid ground. As soon as they entered the newest tunnel they could feel a light breeze. Following the tunnel they came to an underground river. Following the river they came out to a cliff side overlooking the bay of the island. Before Izou could go further, Ace pressed a hand against him to stop the older man from going further.

Izou gave him a questioning look. “There’s no path.” He said as he looked over the edge of the falls. He then spotted their ship, but it was surrounded by marine ships. “Do you have a spyglass?” He asked spotting something on the beach.

Izou began patting down his clothes. He usually carried a compact one on his person. Grasped the bag on his hip that he kept extra bullets in, he surprised himself that he had two bullets inside and the spyglass. He flipped the band that kept it in its compact form before handing it to Ace. Taking the spyglass to his eye, Ace spotted bodies on the beach. Fresh blood pour from head wounds on the bodies. His crew of the second diction were dead. He began counting the bodies, looking at each of his dead crewmates before taking note. “Masked Deuce, Mihar and Banshee aren’t dead. I don’t see their bodies.” He felt an ache in his chest at the loss of his friend’s lives. It wasn’t right or fair. He then spotted other ships on the horizon. “Pop’s sent help.”

“Jozu must have been near.” Izou couldn’t believe he was this happy to see the third division commander. “He’s not going to let me live it down that he was the one to come save us.”

“I’ll buy him a month worth of Elbath Sake as a thanks for coming.” Ace stated as he looked further on the horizon. “He brought friends too.” He handed the eyeglass to Izou.

As his companion looked through the spyglass, Ace began looking for an escape. He really didn’t want to go back into the cave system. That place creeped him out. He suddenly heard shots being fired from the Marine ships onto his ship. His heart sank with the damage it was taking. The ship had taken him across the sea ever since he formed the Spade Pirates. Pop had tried talking him into trading the ship in so that he could hold a bigger crew. He then spotted the Striker near some rocks. The raft ship was upside down in the water. He saw something holding the boat where it was near the rocks. An idea popped into his head.

“I think I found them” he said pointing towards the rocks.

Izou looked at the spot and saw three heads bobbing next to the turned upside down boat. “Smart. They’re using the boat to stay hidden.” He looked at the young man. “They might be seen if we don’t act soon.”

“Right.” He sighed in resignation. “Hate to say it, but we may need to dive into the water.”

“I can.” Izou eyed him. “But you’ll drown.”

He rubbed his hands together. “Ten seconds.” He said not explaining fully as he took his favorite hat off of his head. Throwing it into the water, he hoped he could find it later before diving into the water.

ONE

The second Ace’s skin touched the water, it began to sting. He felt like the air in his lungs was being squished out and fought to keep his lungs filled with the air.

TWO

He tried to remember to kick his feet. He needed to come up for air. Kick. Kick. Kick. Suddenly he broke through the water and gasped for air.

THREE

A second splash sounded at the moment his entire body spasmed and he felt paralyzed. Breathe. He thought even as the water began to pull him under. So as he was pulled under Izou came up out of the water before diving for the mass of dark hair disappearing into the water.

FOUR

Ace felt strong arms wrap around him and began to pull him up. He gasped for air as suddenly his lungs gave release. The tightening of his chest. He felt faint as darkness began to sneak around the edges of his vision.

FIVE

Izou broke the surface with Ace in his arm. The young man took a second gasping breath as Izou swam quickly towards the rocks. It was difficult to do with the weight of a second person who was becoming dead weight in his arms.

SIX

A whistling sound was heard overhead causing Izou to turn towards it. As the cannonball struck the island it exploded into flames of fire igniting the brush around it.

SEVEN

Izou swam with renewed intensity as he realized what was happening. It would seem that because they couldn’t find them, the marines with Akainu had decided to enact a buster call and destroy the island and its inhabitants.

EIGHT

Faster. Izou thought. I need to swim faster. The waves seemed to be fighting against him as he struggled to keep Ace in his arms. That was when Izou felt arms around him as he looked up to see who was grabbing at him, a smile appeared on his lips as he saw the dark blue haired man. Deuce grinned at him.

NINE

The two men swam with Ace partially unconscious. “Get m-me…to th-e S-Striker.” Ace told them as he fought to stay awake. He had to get his remaining crew out of harms way. He could do that with the Striker.

TEN

Explosions from the island caused everyone to stop what they were doing to see the mountain explode as the dormant volcano became active in a very violent way. With large, explosive blasts of ash and gas shooting into the atmosphere. Billowing higher and higher into the sky the dark clouds of ask forced the white clouds to separate and for lightning to shoot out of the black clouds as electricity built up into the clouds. Suddenly the clouds began to fall in on themselves and roll down the mountain side. Screams could be heard as the hot, fast-moving mixtures of ash, gas, and volcanic rocks traveled at high speeds down the volcano's slopes, causing significant damage to the land and killing any in its way.

Finally after what seemed like forever, the group made it back to the rocks and capsized skiff. Ace was handed off to Banshee, the large woman hugging the younger man to her massive bosom. Ace lifted his head from her cleavage. “Hi.” He said weakly.

“We were worried about you commander.” She whispered. “We thought that we lost everyone.”

“This was a fucking trap.” Deuce said stating the obvious.

“Yep.” Ace said lowly, the effects of the water taking full effect now making him feel extremely weak. His arms were limply hanging off of Banshee’s shoulders. “Have we been noticed yet?” His head lulled to the side to look at Deuce, Izou and Mihar who were working on flipping the Striker upright.

“Not yet.” Mihar said in a whispered voice. “However once your skiff is upright we’ll have thirty seconds or less to get the hell out of here.”

“Right.” Ace weakly pulled himself further up onto Banshee’s shoulders, the large boulder rocks were still hiding them. He peered over them in time to see the Spedille’s sails catch fire. His lips turning into a look of sadness. The ole girl was burning. It made sense she would burn the day his men died. “I’m sorry.” He apologized causing everyone to look at him. “I’m sorry this happened.”

“It’s not your fault commander.” Mihar said as he and the other two finally pulled the skiff upright.

Banshee threw Ace onto the boat. Ace reached into a small cubbyhole and threw a rope at them. Tying the other end onto the pole that held the sail before igniting his devil fruit. As wet as he had been, turning the water on his skin into vapor was child’s play. Within a few moments he was able to  igniting the engine to life with his flames. Striker purred to life before shooting forward. On the rope, the four pirates held on for dear life as they were pulled behind the Striker.

Masked Deuce reached his hand out and grabbed Ace’s hat as they flew by it. The ostentatious bright Orange hat was a little dull in color but he’d know his friend’s hat anywhere. Suddenly a shot was heard along with a grunt of pain as Ace was shot.

“ACE!!!” As the four screamed out in horror.

Ace growled as he held a hand to his side. His eyes narrowed as he looked to his side in time to see a young blonde girl standing the crows nest on Akainu’s ship with a sniper rifle in hand. He didn’t know who that girls was but he did feel a bit of fear from her. Luckily the bullet used wasn’t a seastone bullet. Marco or Deuce can fix me up later. He thought as he pushed his flames harder, in order to escape. Getting closer to the third division ship, Ace noticed a revolutionary flag being flown by one of the other ships. Great, Sabo is gonna chew me out for being stupid. He knew undoubtedly that, that ship had Sabo on it.

Just then the water began to boil or appear to boil when a giant of a ship burst from underneath them all. At the sight of this Ace swerved the Striker out of the way. Waves exploded as the Moby Dick that had traveled underwater after being coated, burst back above water. Ace looked up at the ship, shocked. What the hell is Pops doing here! He thought as he made a beeline for the old man’s ship when suddenly a blast of hot magma shot down upon the Striker causing Ace to jump to the side as he was forced to abandon ship, but before he could panic his shoulders were grabbed by something sharp. Gasping, Ace looked up and saw Marco.

“Yoi, Ace, need a lift?” Marco grinned down at the younger man.

“Marco!” He yelled with a smile. “I’ve never been happier to see you man!”

Marco’s eyes darkened when he saw Ace bleeding. Looking towards the remains of the striker, he saw the other four swimming towards the Moby. “Is there anyone else alive on the island?” As he asked this he saw deep sadness overcome his friend. “I see.” As his body was only half transformed, Marco flew quickly back to his father’s ship. With the rescue of a few a success, it was now up to their Pops if a declaration of war would take place. A measure for a measure for the penance that the marines must atone for in the lives taken.

Chapter Text

Chapter 31: Bringing Together 

Ace winced as Masked Deuce’s fingers delicately touched the wound that was from that female sniper on Akainu’s ship. “Damn.” He cursed. “It’s still in there and if it’s not removed it could cause sepsis.”

“Then we’ll remove it.” Came Marco’s voice as he entered the medical room.

“What’s going on out there?” Ace asked as Marco handed him a cup. Drinking it, Ace made a face at the taste of medicine.

“Drink it.” Marco commanded him. “It’ll make it easier on you and us to remove the bullet.”

“Or I can give you a local anesthetic.” Marco gave Masked Deuce a glare. He wanted to knock Ace out so the dipshit didn’t do anything stupid, like challenging Akainu. That was a fight that would definitely end with Ace’s death.

“Pop has ordered that you’re to stay below deck.” Marco told the teen. “We almost lost the entirety of second division. Izou is still shaken from almost becoming buster call dust.”

Ace sighed as he shook his head. “I should’ve realized it was a trap sooner.” He stated. “The town was quiet. No children running around laughing but I didn’t sense anything wrong.” He carded his hand through his hair. The sound of the door to medical opening caught the attention of those present. Marco placed himself between Ace and whoever was entering the room.

Ace grinned. “I don’t need protection from him.” He stated as Marco relaxed as soon as Sabo stepped into the room.

“ACE!” Sabo yelled as he darted across the room and hugged his older brother. Ace groaned in pain. Sabo released him immediately. “What happened?” He asked as soon as he saw the wound.

“Sniper.” Masked Deuce answered curtly as he decided that since Ace wasn’t saying yes or no on the medication, that he’d do it anyway. Taking the needle he had prepped he stabbed his friend.

“Ah!” Ace screamed before turning back to his former first mate. “What the fuck man!”

“Has to be done.” The blue haired man muttered quietly before taking a scalpel and forced Ace to lay down so he could actually cut into him and remove the bullet.

“Shouldn’t we leave?” Sabo asked as he watched the knife begin to cut into his brother’s side.

“Only if you’re squeamish.” Deuce answered as he pressed a finger into the cut he had made. Ace groaned at the pressure he felt. There was a dull pain but it was weird to feel his friend’s finger moving inside his side. “Got it.” Deuce said as he pulled the bullet out before he began to clean up when Marco placed his hand over the wound. His Phoenix flames burst to life as he healed Ace’s side.

Marco then looked pointedly at the young man. “Stay. Below. Deck.” He looked at Sabo. “He’s your responsibility.”

Sabo glanced nervously at his brother. “Oh, this should be good.” Ace said with a wicked grin. Sabo had a feeling that his brother was about to do something stupid and he was going to be one at fault.

Two Days Ago

Shanks was on watch, relieving his commanders for the night, which is why he never expected a call from an unknown ship. It had been a long time since he had heard anything troubling from one of his territories. He expected even less to hear his Anchor’s voice to come from the snail when he answered. His voice deep with lack of sleep, Benn sat next to him wide awake; lucky bastard. “Hello? This is-“

“Shanks!” Luffy’s cheerful voice yelled  happily, the snail’s face turning to an impossibly wide grin.

“Anchor?!” Shanks yelled in shock followed by the thought. What the hell? He grinned at the sound of the young man’s voice. Pride swelling in his chest.

“Shanks, I didn’t call you because I’m ready for our fight, because I’m not.” Luffy deadpanned. “I called cause I need your help.” 

Shanks knew as a captain it would take a lot for another captain to call for help, even if that person was a friend. “What do you need, kid? I know you wouldn’t call me for anything small.”  He said as his voice grew serious, the teasing tone being wiped away and Akagami no Shanks was in his place.

“Have you read the Coo News? The marines have Ace and they’ll kill him if I don’t come help him! I’m not going to let that happen. Ace is my sworn brother and even if it’ll embarrass him if his little brother comes to help him, I’m coming.” Luffy said seriously before sighing. “I’m not stupid. I know it’ll be dangerous, especially since my crew is missing thanks to Warlord Kuma; so I need your help.”

Shanks looked towards Benn, silently asking him what he thought as his first mate looked at the newest Coo News Newspaper. Finding the article he pointed it out to Shabks. The big bold letters catching his attention. Portgas D. Ace; Dead or Missing? Looking further he saw the name of the island in the article column; Banaro Island. That was an island in no man’s land between his and Whitebeards territories. Could he chance it? Come to the aid of the young man’s while avoiding a war over territory disputes.

“Shanks?” Luffy’s worried voice echoed.

“It’s going to take a lot more than me to stop the marines at that island, Anchor.” he said this even as Benn stood to begin charting a coarse towards the island. “We’ll need an army. Especially if those marines are specifically after Ace. I know who that boy is, Anchor.”

“Shishishi.” Luffy’s iconic laughter echoed in the communications room. “Well it’s not like I could ring you up and tell you that Roger had a kid and that the kid became my big brother.”

“Speaking of that,” Shanks began as curiosity got the best of him. “How did you get my number?”

“Shishishi.” Luffy laughed again. “Oh! My new friends the Kuja Pirates and their Empress Hammock. They’re friends of your friend; Rayleigh!”

“Wait, Rayleigh gave you my number?” He asked sounding shocked that his old teacher had done so.

“Yep. After he said he’d help me in anyway he could; especially since it was for his old captain’s kid.” The snail grinned impossibly wide. “He’s neat! I like him!”

Shanks looked at Benn who was just as shocked by the news. This could be a very good thing or turn very quickly into a chaotic mess. “Anchor, don’t do anything yet. We’ll help, but you need to trust me.”

“Hmm.” Luffy hummed. “Nope! I’m coming! If you can help; great! If not; you’ll miss all the fun. Shishishi.” Luffy laughed before the connection ended. “That boy.” Shanks mutter softly as a wild grin suddenly grew on his face.

“Once a gremlin, always a gremlin.” Benn chuckled when the den den began ringing again.

“Hello this is-“ Shanks began when he was interrupted again.

“Red Haired Shanks.” The person on the phone finished for him. “I’m calling on behalf of Ace’s brother; Sabo.” Shanks raised an eyebrow at this. “Look I don’t have much time to chat. That idiot asked me to call you to ask you to come to-“

“Banaro Island?” Shanks asked interrupting the young woman on the other end.

“Yes!” She yelled. “I know being an Emperor you are super busy but Sabo said something about Ace finding you and asking help at one point?”

“He did.” Shanks confirmed.

“Great! He needs that help!” The woman said however before he could answer the woman began yelling. “LINDBERGH! GET YOUR ASS MOVING! SABO IS BEING AN IDIOT AGAIN IN TRYING TO SAVE ANOTHER ONE OF HIS BROTHERS BY HIMSELF!!!” Shanks held his laughter in at the commanding and irritated voice of the young woman on the other end of the line. Benn on the other hand was shaking with laughter. “I DON’T CARE IF YOU DON’T WANT TO DO IT. WHO ARE YOU SCARED OF; ME KICKING YOUR ASS OR SABO!?”

There was a click as the line went dead. Instantly both pirates began laughing heartily. Oh, this was too good. “Beck, wake the boys, we’ve got a party to crash.”

“Aye, aye.” Beckman answered still chuckling as he walked out of the room. Silently the first mate wondered if this was the fight their Anchor would almost die in. Touching the weapon at his side he swore he would kill any who touched that boy. Nobody touched their future King.

Luffy grinned devilishly. “Luffy Darling,” Boa’s voice caught his attention causing Luffy to get rid of the devilish look. “If Fire Fist Ace is part of Whitebeard’s crew, why call your friend Shanks and not his Pop?”

“Ace might be apart of the old man’s crew, but he’s still my big brother.” He fisted his hand. “Nobody hurts Ace or makes him cry. Just saving Ace won’t teach them not to fuck with my family. I plan to make them hurt.” He looked at the Empress. “Shanks says I need an army.” He smiled at her. “What can you tell me about Impel Down?” The Snake Empress’ eyes widened as she realize what her precious darling was thinking and truthfully she was all for causing a little chaos for him.

Chapter Text

Chapter 32: Arriving At Impel Down

Two days before Ace woke up in the cave a series of events began to take place as the wheel of fate began to spin. However, even as it spun, the wheel of fate began to change its coarse. What was once a predetermined fate had become a free falling fate and where it landed or ended was anyone’s guess now.

With his announcement to Shanks of wanting to hurt the government for the betrayal his brother had suffered because of them, Luffy in turn had asked Boa Hancock for her help. The woman was enamored with him, which confused the young man to hell. He had never had someone dote such affection upon him and even though it was nice; it was weird too. Deciding to use this to his advantage, he decided to see if she would help him gather an army that would help him find and keep Ace safe.

After everything that had happened since Alabasta, all the pain he has seen caused by the world government and the marines, after seeing what the Celestial Dragons were doing to people; Luffy wanted to protected all those he called his friends. However, now they were messing with his family; and that just wasn’t going to happen.

So now he was on a marine ship with Boa Hancock heading towards Impel Down. He was going to free those inside with the premise of freedom if they helped him. He knew that pirate alliances rarely worked out because pirates were notoriously greedy, but he was hoping this would work since there wasn’t any money involved. His stomach suddenly growled loudly causing Boa to stand and walk over to the door of the guest room they were in. He sighed as he looked around the room, the marine ship was well built; he’d give them that.

Pulling his hat off of his head, Luffy reached inside and pulled out two pieces of paper, each having the name of a brother on it. Looking at Ace’s vivre card out he noticed there was some damage to it. Is Ace okay? He wondered. I need to get to him as soon as I gather those who I need. He looked up at Boa who had a cart of food for him. He wasted no time in eating every bite. I’ll need to conserve as much energy as I possibly can. Fighting through Impel Down and gathering those who will fight for Ace. He paused in eating for a second. “Handcook.”

“Yes my love?” She asked with hearts in her eyes, never noticing he had mispronounced her name again.

“What big fighters will be down in the prison?” He asked as he held a large fowl leg in his hand.

“The worst of the worst are at the final level of Impel Down, including one the Sun Pirate Jimbe who is Warlord that’s refusing to support the World Government in their endeavor to kill Portgas D. Ace.” She stated. “My ruse to get into the prison is to try and persuade him into helping the Government.” She finished saying as he ate the last of the food. “Do you need more my beloved?”

“Hmm…” Luffy thought as his overstuffed face shrank to normal sized as he digested the meal. “Desert?” He suddenly released a loud burp.

Outside the marines couldn’t believe the sound that had come from the Empresses room. When suddenly the door opened and Boa burped loudly before pushing the cart out. “I want something sweet.” she stated before closing the door.

“Yes Ma’am!” was echoed down the halls by the love induced morons.

“I’m going to need ships.” Luffy thought out loud. “I’m certain I’ll find the likes of Boraque Works, Crocodile-“

“There’s said to be a man down there that hates the World Government with a passion; Shiki I believe his name to be.” Boa told him. “Another one who is so horrific that his name was erased from time.” She touched her chin in thought. “Somebody once told me that a man who was the size of an island was down there, but he was so despicable that even his own crew left him to rot.” She reopened her eyes. “Sanjian Wolf I believe he is called. He is also known as the Colossal Battleship because of his sheer size.”

Luffy looked away from her and shook his head. He didn’t need monsters. Crossing his legs as he sat on the floor, Luffy tried to think. Perhaps he’d destroy Impel Down after ransacking it of the best of the worst? The rest of the journey to the world prison was in silence as Luffy began to devise a plan. It was simple, each of the six levels of Impel had strong people on it, just because they didn’t look it didn’t mean they weren’t. He would gather people from each level, destroy the prison, escape on the remaining ship that were in the harbor around the prison and get to Ace. There was no way he’d get to the Archipelago in three days time, so he’d asked Boa’s sisters to go to Sabody and wait for his friends at the dock where the Thousand Sunny was waiting. He knew how crew would get there. He trusted and believed in them. Sure there had been a few betrayals, but he knew they wouldn’t let him down now or ever again!

Once they arrived at the prison, Boa was still unsure how they were going to get him inside. Luffy smiled at her. “Just don’t move too suddenly.” He whispered as he approached her from behind. Boa’s cheeks flushed red as she felt him press up against her body, using his rubber abilities he could mold himself to her as she walked into the prison with a cloak over herself to hide him.

Vice Admiral Momonga greeted Boa respectfully even though he did not like working with a pirate, a beautiful pirate but a pirate nonetheless. Arriving at Impel Down, the Marines stationed there saw him and his crew and let them in as he, Hancock, got off the ship, and walked towards the gate.

Momonga turned towards Hancock. “Unfortunately Empress, because you are still a pirate, you must wear seastone handcuffs and undergo a full body-check before we can go in.“

“I see.” She said feeling the slithering feel of the cuffs on her person, memories of her past threatened to overwhelm her when she felt Luffy’s body press further against her. Her cheeks flushing red. “I will not fight. Do as you must.”

As she walked into the holding area, Boa saw the denden video camera in the corner of the room. The Vice Admiral stepped out of the room only to be replaced by a young woman who was to begin the body search when the cuff came off, before the woman realized it Boa had used her devil fruit to turn everything into stone. “It’s safe.” She assured Luffy.

“Thank-you Hancock.” He said as he got out from under her cloak. “Sorry if I made you uncomfortable.”

“Darling, I was okay. You could never make me feel uncomfortable!” She tried to not squeal but he was making it so hard especially when she just wanted to hold and comfort him so badly. Her mind began to show her what could come from this as a daydream of them marrying appeared in her mind.

“I’ll hide now.” Luffy told her as her went to the couch and hid behind it.

Boa quickly calmed herself and returned the young woman back to her original form. Undergoing the body search and finishing just as the warden and Vice Admiral came barging into the room. “What’s the meaning of this!?” She demanded. “Have you no decency!”

Both men became flustered. “We apologize!” The yelled in unison.

“She’s clean.” The female marine stated as she walked over to the warden. Holding her hand out for the key, he begrudgingly gave it to her. As they left Boa wondered how Luffy planned to get out of the room; especially with the surveillance snail watching the room. As they left the room and walked towards the elevator, Boa noticed Luffy in the rafters, her cheeks flushing when she thought she saw him mouth I love you but in reality he had mouth thank-you. So as they descended towards the lowest levels, Boa silently wished him the best of luck before she lost sight of the young man.

Chapter Text

Chapter 33: Buggy

Chains clinked together, a sound that was becoming all too familiar to the blue hair man sitting in the cell. His face was slightly bruised and swollen. He knew that this was going to be his fate. He’d always known he was a failure. His own crew had abandoned him! Nobody needed him. He wasn’t wanted. A freak. Unloved. His usually pristine makeup was a mess. His hair sticking out in places. He was smelly, bloody and starving. Buggy the Jester had fallen and there was nothing he could do to stop this free fall.

The sea stone chains clanked together. For the first time in over two decades he couldn’t separate his body with his chop chop fruit. It felt weird to not be able to do so. Feels weird to be normal. He thought with a grimace as the pain in his side ached from his latest beat down from the guards.

Since Logtown months back everything had gone down hill. After almost executing Strawhat, he had thought that he’d finally found the big horde treasure of Captain John; only to end up in an unmarked Marine mine. Then his ally betrayed him by not coming to his rescue. He had to do the self sacrificing thing and act as a diversion so that his men could escape and claim their dreams while he sat to rot in a cell. He truly was pathetic.

As he ran a hand through greasy hair, Buggy felt his eyes begin to fill with tears. What a pathetic failure I’ve become. He thought. At least Shanks can’t see me like this. Hell, he probably laughed when he saw it in the news coo. His once long ago friend who at one point had seen as his brother probably didn’t even think about him anymore. A passing thought, that’s all I am. The tears fell down in rivers now onto the floor. His depression getting worse by the day. Fighting to calm himself, Buggy wiped the tears away as he heard footsteps coming his way. Another beating. He thought grimly, so when he lifted his eyes and spotted the all too familiar strawhat on the dark haired boy, he never thought in a million years that he’d finally found feel something other than contempt for the boy. Hope. Hope that he would free him. He won’t. He thought solemnly. I tried to kill him. He’ll never-

“Oh! It’s you!” He heard the boy exclaim. Looking up he saw Luffy looking at him. “Ah, you’re Buggy!” He grinned widely. “Want to get out?”

“Huh!?” Buggy asked loudly.

“Shishishi.” Luffy giggled. “I’m going to be taking out this place, but first I’m freeing everyone. Just need you to help me with something once I’m done.”

Buggy groaned. “What do you want help with?” His eyes narrowed. If it’s about that damn treasu- His thought came to a screeching halt as he spotted something on the kids arm. No way! It’s the map to Captain John’s treasure!

“I need your help in helping Ace.” He said with a wide grin. “That’s all I’m saying.”

Buggy looked at him doubtlessly. Why do I have bad feeling about this? Buggy had never developed a strong haki or anything like what Shanks could do, but over the years he had developed a bullshit meter in his head and this was some bullshit. “Who’s Ace?” He asked, having a feeling he knew who this guy was talking about.

Luffy looked at him confused. “You’ve never heard of Portgas D. Ace?” Luffy asked before a grin spread across his face his face. “He’s the second division commander of the Whitebeard pirates. Ace loves being apart of that group, but most importantly he is my big brother and the Government is trying to take his freedom away because they figured out that he’s Gol D. Roger’s son.” Buggy’s jaw dropped. “Which is a stupid reason to kill somebody.”

“WHAT!?” Buggy screamed, he knew if he hadn’t had the cuffs on his body would have separated from shock. Captains kid survived Baterilla? His jaw closed and he swallowed thickly. “Okay, I’ll help if you give me the arm band on your arm.” No way I’m telling him that it’s part of a treasure map.

Luffy looked at the armband on his arm. “Nami gave this to me.” He mumbled. “But, if you want it as compe-“ He tried to think of the word he needed. “Compen- oh -sation! I’m fine with that!” He grinned as he put his hands on his hips and grinned.

Oh seas! He thought in horror. He’s just like that guy! “Ugh!” He felt disgusted. “I can take you as far as level four, but that’ll be it!”

Luffy looked at him surprised. “Oh! Really?” He then punched the bars of the cell. “You’re actually a nice guy then.”

“Ugh.” Buggy was a bit upset that he was now teamed up with someone just like his former red haired friend. This is gonna be torture. He watched Luffy look around before he pulled a bar off of the broken cell door. He then approached Buggy and slammed the spiked end into the keyholes of the cuffs, breaking them. Buggy looked at his cuff free hands with amazement. “It actually worked.” He stated, eyes wide.

“Shishishi.” Luffy laughed. “Of course it did.” Luffy said never doubting himself when the alarms went off on the floor. “Guess we’ve gotta run now.”

Oh if this guy wasn’t made of the same metal as Shanks. It seemed like in minutes that every guard on that level seemed to appear out of thin air. The two ran through the halls, cells on either side and men yelling to be released as well, but Buggy refused to be stopped. He was only a few paces from escape!

“You’re still giving me the armband.” Buggy groused hoping he wouldn’t have to fight this guy again. It seemed misfortune followed him whenever he messed with strawhat. He flew above strawhat using his ability from his chop chop fruit. Incredibly floating wasn’t all he could do.

“Of course!” Luffy yelled as he ran as fast as he could through the level. “You’re still giving me help. So you can have it!”

“Do you even know what that thing is?” Buggy asked curiously.

“Nope. Not important to me.” Luffy stated with a shrug.

“It’s a treasure marker.” Buggy admitted. Why did I tell him that?!

“Really?” Luffy asked as he pulled it off of his arm and looked at the needle that was pointing in another way. “Not important.”

Not important!? Buggy thought incredulously. “What kind of pirate are you?” I’ve been looking for this treasure my entire life! Not important!?

Luffy stopped in his tracks and grinned so widely that Buggy had to do a double take. He’d only known one other person who would smile like that. Roger. “Shishishi.” Luffy laughed. “I’m not any pirate.” He told Buggy. “I’m going to be the next King of the Pirates!”Buggy froze as he floated upside down. Incredibly he believed this boy. He could almost see it. “By the way, here.” He held out the trinket. “I had no idea it had value. Glad it can be of use to someone.”

“You’re still giving it to me?!” Buggy yelled in surprise.

“Yep.” Luffy stated with a smile. “Besides, Ace is more valuable to me than silly treasure.” His smile broadened once more. “The only treasure I want is the treasure I can share with my brothers and family; the one piece.”

“Are you stupid?!” Buggy yelled. “If you give it to me I might fly off with it and leave you here to rot!”

Luffy got close to him. “You could, but you promised to show me the way.”

Buggy was touched. This guy! Does he have to look at me like that with such honest eyes! I’m just a worthless, scumbag don’t you know!? He snatched the item. The treasure of my dreams. Captain John’s Treasure marker. I’ll accept this and get him as far as I can. But I’ll still owe him. He looked at the beast that were charging them. “Stupid monster guards.” He suddenly got an idea. He had a few tricks still hidden on his body, or in it. “That leaves me no choice!” He grinned widely. “Hey Strawhat? Do you remember my Buggy Balls? The weapon I scare you and your friends with?” He asked excitedly.

Luffy cocked his head at him. “Nope.”

Buggy could’ve cried. He really could have. “Not even a little?” He asked holding back the tears.

“Nope.”

Buggy fell to the ground. Damn brat. “Fine!” He snarled as he kicked out a leg, a small pebble shot out at the guard monsters before exploding loudly, the floor cracked as the beast fell either dead or unconscious; neither could tell. Buggy glare at Luffy. “Now do you?”Luffy grinned at him, it was the same kind of grin that Shanks use to give him after tricking Buggy into something. “Ah!” He pointed at Luffy. “You did remember!”

“Excuse me!” A voice yelled causing the two to turn to look. A man in makeup and a man whose hair was styled into a three caught their attention. “Mugiwara!”

Luffy ran over to the man. “Bon Clay!”

“Since you’re making so much noise, think you could get us out?” The second man asked gaining a confused look from the teen.

“Err.” Luffy scratched his head. “Who are you again?” The man looked shocked.

“I’m Mr. 3!” He screamed at the youth. “I tried to kill you!”

“Oh yeah!” Luffy laughed. “That wasn’t nice.” The man’s jaw dropped.

“Mugiwara, I helped your crew escape.” Bon Clay stated. “You said I could be your friend. Help me out and I help you again.”

“You idiot! He’s Crocodile’s enemy!” Mr. 3 stated loudly.

“Yes,” Bon Clay teared up. “but he’s my friend.”

Mr. 3 suddenly facepalmed. “What kind of logic is-“

“Okay.” Luffy said happily. “If you help me protect Ace, I’ll help you.”

“ACE!” Both men yelled in unison. They knew of Fire Fist.

“Mugiwara,” Bon Clay began tentatively. “How do you know that man?”

Luffy’s grin turned to one of pride. “Ace is my big brother.”

Bon Clay snorted. Of course the second most deadly man on Whitebeards crew was related to his friend. He must have had a horrible childhood being related to that monster! He felt sorry for his friend. “Very well. I shall risk life and limb to help you in any way I can Mugiwara.”

“You’re an idiot.” Mr. 3 argued with him before looking at Luffy. “However, so am I. I’ll help but I can’t go very far down because of the heat produced in one of the levels. It’s so hot and dangerous that I’ll melt and die.”

“I appreciate it.” Luffy stated as he pulled the bars apart. “Now let’s go!” He headed for the nearby stairwell. It left the three men to wonder why did the teen trust them so well when most pirates barely could trust other pirates, even their own crew, from killing them. Just who was Monkey D. Luffy?

Chapter Text

Chapter 34: Message of Hope

In the lowest level of Impel Down, named The Eternal Hell, was a man who refused to go after one Portgas D. Ace. His name was Jinbe. The blue skinned whale shark fish man snarled as the chains holding his body still were tightened as the door to his cell was opened. A guard grinned evilly down upon him before he lifted the heavy club and began to beat the fish man as he pleased. Blood splattered upon the ground as the former warlord refused to scream. As soon as the beating was done, the chains were tightened even more.

“I will not run from you!” Jinbe yelled as the doors slammed shut. “Even if I was free to walk about, you honorless scum.”

The guard grinned at him. “No, but your spirit will be crushed before we kill you.” He said as he laughed, a chill ran down the older pirates spine.

As the beast guard stomped off, Jinbe groaned. “Can’t even scratch to itch.” He muttered quietly. His words do not have a sting to them and therefore cannot hurt me. He thought. “What hurts is that I cannot stand up for those who will need me very soon. A war is coming.”

“Hahahaha.” Laughter sounded from a nearby cell causing the blue whale shark man to look at his neighbor. “War is inevitable.”

“Crocodile.”Jinbe knew the former warlord was one for revenge. He wondered who would come for the man. “I just regret I won’t be able to stop the coming war. I would sacrifice my life if it meant stopping it! They have no idea the kind of destruction Whitebeard will cause to save one of his sons.”

“Destruction?” Crocodile asked. “Just be thankful it’s only Whitebeard who will be fighting.” The sand logia user leaned his head back against the cell wall. “Be thankful that man isn’t a part of the war or else all their carefully laid plans would fail.”

“Are you talking about red haired?” Jinbe asked only for laughter to fill the floor from Crocodile.

“If only.” He answered. “If Mugiwara catches wind of this, I am certain the Marines will fail in killing the Strongest Man alive and his sons.”

Jinbe’s eyes widened as his jaw dropped. “Kill Whitebeard!?” Jinbe half asked half prayed to be a lie.

“Do you really think you were jailed for standing against the capture and murder of Portgas D. Ace?” The look Jinbe gave told the other man that yes he had. “Ace is only one small fish in a big pond. They want Whitebeard and they’ll get their war for it.” As silence returned between them, Jinbe was left with his thoughts. Who was this Mugiwara? Yes, he had heard of the young man racing across the seas like Calypso herself was chasing him; but just who was this man, the one Ace called a brother?

As soon as they came to the next level Luffy turned towards Mr. 3. “Since you can’t go very far, I have a very special mission for you.” He said grinning like an idiot.

Buggy and Bon Clay looked at the strawhat teen. “Why would I do another mission for you?” Mr. 3 asked.

“Because if you don’t, then everything will fail!” Luffy exclaimed. “If we fail, we die and so will Ace!”

Mr. 3’s eyebrow twitched. “Fine.”

“Once I get down to level four, you and Buggy can return up top. As you do, release everyone as you go.” He looked at Buggy. “You’re a smart guy, I’m certain you can rally everyone in rioting and gain new comrades in helping Ace.” He gave Buggy a thumbs up in his confidence in him. He then looked at Bon Clay. “I could use your help though. If you’d stick with me a bit longer, Hancook stated there were people in level 6 that could help me that are super strong, dangerous, but super strong and that they hold a grudge against the government too!”

Bon Clay gave him a smirk. “Of course I’ll help you! I’m a loyal friend after all!” He spun in a ballet dance form to show just how serious he was.

“Awesome!” Luffy cried out joyfully. Looking around the level they were now in, he was kind of reminded of Alabasta; as it was a desert. “What’s this level called?”

“Third level, Starvation Hell.” Buggy said looking around at the cells covered in sand.

Bon Clay grinned. “I was here for a while before a guard touched me and I swapped places with him.”

“That’s how you ended up in my cell!” Mr. 3 yelled at the cross dresser.

“Maybe.” Bon Clay refused to admit that he’d gone looking for other Baroque Works members but only ended up for Mr. 3 by accident.

Luffy suddenly got an idea. “Is there anybody left on this level?”

Bon Clay blinked at him in surprise. “A few.” He cocked his head at Luffy’s question. “Why?”

Luffy grinned. “Might need them to cause some chaos.” He said “Shishishi.” He then turned to continue running down the stairs.

Across the sea at Mary Geoise in the Marine base, Fleet Admiral Sengoku growled in frustration. “What do you mean Strawhat Luffy has infiltrated Impel Down!?’

Across the room, Vice Admiral Monkey D. Garp choked lightly on the cookie cracker he had in his mouth before slowly turning his head towards his long time friend’s words. Damn brat did what?

“Garp!” Sengoku ended the denden call. “Your grandson is causing trouble again!” Garp laughed. “This is serious! He’s infiltrated Imprel Down! There hasn’t been an escape attempt there in twenty years!” Garp took another bite from his favorite cracker cookie. “As if that’s not enough, Portgas D. Ace is missing and nobody can find him in order to arrest the damn brat!” He suddenly grabbed the box of cracker cookies from Garp.

“Hey!” Garp yelled.

“Get off your ass and do something about your grandsons!” Sengoku threw back a few cookies into his mouth.

“Ah! My cookies!” Garp yelled as he ran after his friend. Those damn brats are going to pay. Maybe I’ve been too lite on them. Time for another fist of love.

Suddenly Jinbe heard new alarms going off. “They’re sealing the prison.” He wondered what in the world was going on.

“Newbies must be trying to escape.” Crocodile mused, he really could use a smoke right now. His hook tapped the cell bars. “They’re fools to think they can do so. Nobody has escaped Impel Down in well over twenty years.”

Then why do you look hopeful? Jinbe wondered. You know something, don’t you? “Hmm?” Jinbe heard the elevator suddenly stop. Boa Hancock stepped out with the jailers walking behind her. “You’ve always been the empress who never cared about a summons but here you are after the government has summoned you for an illogical war.”

She looked down her nose at him as she stepped towards his cell doors, her snake near her to protect her from the sight of the other prisoners. “So, you’re the one called Jinbe. Do not snarl at me like a beast.” She told him with a snark of her own.

The prisoners began to make catcalls towards her. She gave them a cute look. “Oh so scary.” She flirted, if people thought she needed her devil fruit to cause men to act like idiots, they were wrong. Jutting out her chest just a bit, arching her back just right. “You’re scaring me.” She feigned.

The jailer warden, Magellan was his name, suddenly growled at the men for calling him names and making such noises towards the Empress. “It would seem you all need a reminder as to who is in charge here.” He activated his own devil fruit. His body began to change to a dark, crimson-colored as an oozing mist covered his body, his eyes also appeared more sinister as a toxic scent filled the air.

As he began to harm the prisoners, Boa turned quickly towards Jinbe. “A man is come down here. His name is Strawhat Luffy.” She told him, even as the screams behind her covered her voice from the other jailers. “He is coming here to release everyone in the prison, but he is truly here to gain help in helping his older brother escape the clutches of the World Government; Portgas D. Ace.” She gave him a pleading look. “Help him.” She whispered before turning towards the screaming prisoners just as they began to go quiet from fear after watching their fellow prisoners die as the poison from Magellan’s devil fruit killed them.

Magellan approached her. “Empress, you may speak freely now.” He told her proudly.

“I am done here.” She told him no longer needing to speak to the former warlord.

Crocodile looked at Jinbe, after the warden and his people left, he spoke. “What did she say?”

Jinbe began to laugh loudly. “Your worst case scenario has come true.” He stated causing the sand logia to raise a brow at him. “Strawhat Luffy is here and he’s coming to free everyone in order to help Whitebeard and subsequently his brother; Portgas D. Ace.” Wide eyes looked at him with shock as the fish man laughed again. “It would seem fate wants me to continue to fight for justice and freedom a bit longer!” He grinned. “Let’s see what Strawhat has in store because I have a feeling it’s going to be fun!”

Luffy panted as he continued to climb the stairs. I was going down, but now I’m going up! This place is so confusing! “I’m so hungry too!” He said to himself. Ace better appreciate this! Luffy suddenly felt something ping off his observation haki. Turning he saw gunmen begin shooting at him. Again! He thought as he dodged their nets. “Sea stone infused nets!” He gasped. I didn’t think they had those things! He dodged each shot. That was close!

Suddenly a huge sphinx lion beast jumped towards Luffy when a scream echoed out to gain its attention. “You stupid lion! Come get me! I am a stupid worthless pirate hunter!” Luffy’s eyes widened when saw Zoro standing there. “Over here!” He suddenly turned around and slapped his ass. “Come and get me!”

“Huh?” Luffy questioned in confusion. That doesn’t seem like Zoro. Just then the screams of several dozen men was heard as the prisoners on the level had been let out. Leading the group was Buggy and Mr. 3! “Fooled you!” Zoro’s voice changed as Bon Clay jumped down at the beast. “Swan Arabasque!” Bon Clay spun around and used the momentum of the spin to slam his foot into the giant beasts face. The man began to laugh wildly as the group found the snipers of guards and began to beat, kick and bite their way through.

Buggy, who had found a weapon, a giant axe, swung the weapon at a soldiers head before separating his feet from his body. The two limbs jumped up and shot out at different directions a single Buggy Ball. The resulting explosions took out half of the floor which began to crack and crumble beneath everyone’s feet. Oh no! Luffy thought as Bon Clay grabbed Luffy and threw him and himself off and away from the quickly dissolving floor.

Buggy groaned. This may have not been my most brilliant of plans. As he and the others fell to the floor below them all, Luffy outstretched his arms wrapping them around Mr. 3 and Buggy all the while the rest of the escapees fell to the next floor. Above them a security denden relayed what had happened to the control center. The guards gasping in shock at the audacity of this young pirate. It was time they told the warden what was happening in order to stop the ensuing chaos.

Chapter Text

Chapter 35: Burning Heat

“Gomu Gomu Whip!” Luffy cried out as he slung his leg out and slammed it into several beast jailers; throwing them into the pit below that led to the next level.

“Spin, Spin!” Bon Clay yelled out as he spun as a ballerina taking out several more plump jailer beasts.

“Chop-Chop Festival", Buggy yelled out as his body part separated and shot out at their opponents, blocking their escape, and began to attack them with his body parts. However, his feet remain on the ground, making them vulnerable to attack. Fortunately Mr. 3 created a barrier around Buggy’s vulnerable body parts stopping the round beast jailers from attacking him.

Mr. 3 then used the last of his creative energy to create a sled that they could use to ride down into the pit towards the next level. “That’s the last that I can spare without passing out.” He looked at the pile of bodies Bon Clay and Luffy had left behind in their wake. Incredible. They’re both such monsters.

“Remind me to never piss off that transvestite.” Buggy whispered. “He’s actually quite terrifying.”

No kidding. Mr. 3 thought.

“Is it ready?” Luffy inquired as he looked at the sled. “Oh! That looks steady.” He jumped into it. “Let’s go!”

“How?” Buggy asked as he jumped into it as well.

As soon as Bon Clay and Mr. 3 got in as well, Luffy laughed. “Shishishi.” He then slammed his fists onto the floor in front of them, using armament haki to strengthen the hit. This caused the cracks to expand, running towards the group and weaken the ground below them. Once the second hit slammed into the floor, the sled with its occupants fell straight down.

“AAAAAHHHH!!!!” The three men screamed terrified and grasping each other.

The sled hit the ground below only for it to be softened. Luffy looked under the sled and saw the unconscious beasts they had thrown down the pit. Luffy looked at his group of semi-allies and gave them a thumbs up. “We’re good.” He stated with a chuckle.

“You’re crazier than that guy that I grew up with!” Buggy exclaimed. “Scratch that! You’re crazier than my old dead captain!!!”

Luffy laughed. “Shishishi.”

“It’s not funny!” He screamed at the kid. “He shaved off ten years of my life with his stunts! I’m only thirty-eight! I shouldn’t have all these worry lines yet!”

“Why live a boring safe life?” Luffy stated. “Life is too short to do so. It’s better when it’s exciting.” He jumped off the sled and slid down the pile of unconscious beasts. “Is this level four?” he asked when he spotted a large opening with hot air billowing out towards them. It’s hot. He thought before looking up at the opening of the pit. Hotter than up there had been.

Bon Clay approached the ledge. “Straw-boy, come here.”

Luffy walk up to the ledge and gasped at the heat hitting him. It felt like a volcano down there! “Is this level four?” He asked once more.

“Yes.” Bon answered darkly. “The Blazing Hell.” Luffy swallowed thickly behind him he saw Buggy helping Mr. 3.

No wonder Mr. 3 stated he couldn’t go further down or he’d die. He thought before looking back. “Tell them they can start going back. I’ll go on by myself.”

“No.” Bon Clay said. “I’m coming too Straw-boy. You’re my friend and I made a promise.”

Luffy grinned.

“Why wasn’t I informed sooner of this infiltration!” Warden Magellans voice echoed across the room of his subordinates.

“It wasn’t totally our fault that you knew nothing.” His second-in-command stated making him upset. “You just had to show Miss Hancock the prisoner.” Venomous poison began to emit vapors into the room. “So yeah, your fault.” His second suddenly felt light headed. “Warden! Close your mouth! You’re going to kill us!”

“You don’t think I can do my job!” He snarled.

Nervously his subordinates backed away. “Of course not! You’re quite effective at doing it.”

A woman dressed in what looked like a pink BDSM bodysuit walked into the room. “Looks like the guest has left.” She spoke.

“Oh! Mistress Sadi.” He greeted respectfully.

“The riots on the first two levels are being attended to by my people. So are we going to hunt down the infiltrator and his accomplices?” She stated, sounding quite bored.

“You’re just the person for the job!” The warden stated as he turned towards the video monitors. “Who is stationed on level 3?”

“Minotaur is on that level.” She moaned slightly.

Suddenly the doors burst open. “Strawhat and his group have entered level 4!”

Magellan snorted. “It seems Minotaur has failed.” He walked out of the room towards the elevator. “I will deal with these pests.”

As soon as Bon Clay rejoined Luffy, the man began explaining this level in grim detail. A river of boiling blood? Luffy wondered. “I hope they’re cooking something other than prisoners down there because this place already sucks!”

“Trust me when I say this,” Bon Clay stated grimly. “from this moment on you’ll be constantly in danger. Your life can end at any moment. One wrong step and it’s over.”

Shit. Luffy thought. I knew I should’ve paid more attention to Robin as she talked about this place that one time. “Bon.” The man looked at Luffy. “Why are you really helping me? I know there has to be reason other than being my friend.”

The man smiled. “I’ve heard that there’s this man who was wrongly imprisoned. People call him a miracle. He is known as Iva!” Luffy could’ve sworn that there were stars in Bon Clays eyes.  “He’s the queen of the Kamabakka Kingdom. The pink paradise of the Grand Line! He’s the leader of the queer folk. The Queen of all Queens!” Bon Clay clasped his hands together and sighed.

“Queen of all Queens?” Luffy questioned before a wide grin spread across his face. “Sounds like somebody important.”

“I want to meet him face to face,” Bon said with another sigh as he excitedly spun around. “if only for a moment.” He stopped spinning. “Perhaps we can set him free.”

Buggy suddenly jumped in front of them. “I’ve made a decision. My debt isn’t cleared yet. I’ll continue with you two until I feel it is.” Truthfully I don’t want to go through those other two levels with just that guy. Mr. 3 is weaker than me!!!

“Cool!” Luffy laughed lightly. “But can you survive level 4? It’s pretty hot here and I don’t want you to hurt yourself.”

This kid! Buggy felt touched. Looking out for someone like me! He wanted to cry.

Luffy suddenly noticed he felt a bit cooler. Looking up at the ceiling he saw a fan but it was getting further away. “Is it me or is the ceiling going further away from us.

“Huh?” All three men said in unison.

“Hmm..” Buggy thought. “You’re right.”

“Is it getting cooler?” Mr. 3 inquired.

“Yeah.”  Luffy agreed.

“Actually…” Bon Clay looked around them as the rumble beneath his feet continued. “I think we’re falling.”

“No way!” Luffy yelled with excitement.

“Why are you excited!?” Mr. 3 asked. “I’m going to melt into a puddle!”

“No you won’t.” Luffy stated with the utmost confidence. “You’ll be alright!”

“We’re falling into the hellfire below us!!” The others yelled, Luffy just grinned.

In the cells of level 6, Jinbe felt a tremor go through the foundation against his back. Oh? He questioned. That wasn’t a tremor from water or earth. That was a tremor from the prison itself. He looked up at the ceiling, the chandelier shook outside of the cells.

“Strawhat has begun his attack on the prison.” Crocodile stated. “That hatchling is stronger than I thought.” He grinned. His words confused Jinbe, especially since he seemed to smiling with pride up at the ceiling.

Just who are you Strawhat Luffy? Jinbe thought as he relaxed himself. If I’m going to be fighting, I’ll need to begin conserving my energy and strength.

At the gates of level 4 the guards and marine soldier under Magellan and his men waited for the invader Luffy to come through. “There’s no way that boy can get through us!” Magellan stated. “With the whole of my forces here-“

“Warden!” One of his men yelled out. “We’ve gotten word that Strawhat Luffy and his forces have been seen on this floor already! He bypassed the gate by knocking the ceiling down!”

Warden Magellan looked up at the tall ceiling. Impressive. He thought. Even for a pirate. “The ceiling is directly above the boiling pool of blood! How are they alive!” He yelled.

“From what’s been reported, they used a falling piece of slab and landed into the blood pool before jumping to safety.” The guard answered quickly.

What luck. Magellan though.

“There’s more.” The guard said nervously. “It would seem that the champion Minotaur has been defeated on level 3 and has not moved; at all.”

Magellan growled. “We already knew he failed. Do we know who defeated him?”

“Apparently he was taken out by an explosion along with several other beast guards.” The guard answered. “Unknown how strawhat got explosives into the prison.”

Mistress Sadi cried. “I can’t believe it! My poor baby!”

“Enough!” Magellan growled out getting annoyed by his own people. “There are only two ways of leaving level 4 without dying. The staircases leading up to level 3 and down to level 5 and the elevator; both are heavily guarded.” His voice took on a commanding tone as he looked at his second-in-command. “Hannyabal, I want you to take these stairs that lead to level 3. I am placing you in charge here. I want all access blocked!” He looked at the woman before him. “Mistress Sadi, I want you and your special demon guards to take these stairs that staircase to level 5. Nobody escapes!”

“No! That’s going to bore me to tears!” She complained as false crocodile tears ran down her cheeks. “I wanted to punish those bad boys; unless my outfit didn’t make that clear enough to you!”

“Are there any objections?” Magellan snarled as wisps of poison escaped his breath. The guards covered their mouths with their hands and whimpered a round of no’s. “Oh and once they are captured, you can punish them as you like.”

This mad Mistress Sadi absolutely happy. “Yay!” She squealed with joy.

“This ends now!” He growled as he began to walk off. “They have played games, made fools of all of us and have caused irreparable damage to Impel Down!” A dark aura began to form around his body from his anger. “The blazing hell will be their last stop.”

Chapter Text

Chapter 36: Powerhousing It

“Gomu, Gomu Slingshot!” Luffy’s voice rang through the area as Buggy, Bon Clay and Mr. 3 took out the stragglers. As Luffy’s body slammed into the level 4 jailers, Mr. 3’s wax ability was soon null and void as he no longer could form keys to help the prisoners escape. Buggy picked up a new weapon that one of the guards had dropped, another axe; where were these axes come from? Luffy’s leg stretched, slamming into another guard as the prisoners ran to escape the level to get a little relief at level 3.

Buggy was worried though. The kid was a true powerhouse, sure, but brute strength wasn’t going to get him to his goal or was it? He’d seen Luffy perform the impossible; like what happened at Loguetown. The screams of the guards caught the jesters attention as four out of six fell to their deaths into the bubbling boiling blood pool below the bridge.

Luffy’s legs snapped back to their original form and length. Panting, Luffy turned to see how the others were fairing. They were jumping around trying to avoid the burning floor. “Why don’t you guys just use haki on your feet?” He asked them curiously.

His three companions looked at him in awe and with some jealousy. “Because not everyone can do that!” Buggy screamed at him. “I’m lucky if I produce enough haki for observation let alone capable of armament!” The jester cried. He really is just like Shanks. A prodigy through and through. Buggy’s depression deepened at that thought. Here he was almost as old at his captain was when he died and barely anybody knew the name Buggy. There’s got to be a running joke in the universe about me and my misery. He thought as he tried not to get burned by the floor tiles.

“I, myself, am just fine.” Bon Clay claimed. “I will admit it’s a little steamy in here.” His face suddenly started to change color to a bright red. “Okay, maybe a little more than steamy.”

“Shut up! You’re more exhausting than the heat!” Mr. 3 grumbled.

Luffy suddenly smelt something in the air. “I think I know which way we need to go.” He stated as he rushed off without telling them.

“Hey where do you think you’re going?” Buggy yelled after him.

Bon Clay turned towards Buggy’s voice. “Now where could he be going?” An idea appeared in his mind as he heard a deep rumble. “The kitchen!”

“The kitchen!” The other two yelled out.

Buggy rushed after the other two. “I’m not gonna lie, food does sound good right now.” An image appeared in his mind of his favorite snacks and such. “I’m kind of hoping for some booze too.” He grinned at the thought when he was suddenly grabbed by Mr. 3.

“Wait! Buggy!” He yelled after the other man. “I don’t think that’s food you’re smelling!” The two watched in horror as the other two continued on ahead.

Luffy’s stomach rumbled with something fierce. “It smells so good.” He looked to his haki covered feet and legs. “So not everyone can use haki. Sabo never said that in his training.” He knew from experience that some had it, he could sense it in them. Their wills were strong and that’s what made his opponents so fun to fight. Even Crocodile had haki. He thought back to the ex-warlord. Though now that I think about it, he didn’t use it on me. Does that mean he had the potential but never trained to use it?

“There he is!” He heard men yell ahead of him. A group of guards began racing to stop him. “Stop Strawhat Luffy!”

“Damn, there’s a bunch of them!” He gasped as his stomach rumbled loudly. I need to eat! He grinned at the prospect of another fight. “This heat is getting to me but I’ll be okay once eat some meat.” Jumping into the air Luffy stretched a punch with a fist, then his foot before twisting out of the way of a spiked trident weapon which spun him upside down midair. Bringing a leg down he quickly landed upright as a pile of unconscious men were left on the burning ground. Using his continued momentum, Luffy jumped into the in a fast spin. “Gomu, Gomu, Fireworks!” He cried out as he punched and kicked wildly at his enemies. Screams ensued as the ground exploded from the armament haki encased attack. Guards were thrown this way and that; landing unconscious or almost falling into the boiling blood below them. “Gomu, Gomu, whip!” Luffy screamed as his leg stretched and slammed into even more guards. Where are they coming from?! He wondered.

Nearby Magellan groaned as he was once again hit by a battery of intense abdominal pain as he relieved himself on his mobile throne of sort. “Sir! Teams A and B have encountered Strawhat and are fighting him, unfortunately they’re not doing so well.”

“He’s defeated everything we’ve hit him with!” Another guard cried out.

Back at the battle scene Bon Clay jumped into the fray. “Transvestite Kenpo! Spinning Summer Grand Flouette!” He spin incredibly fast on the tips of his toes jumping into the air and went through a crowd of guards, kicking and spinning through them until he came out the other side. The group of men fell unconscious from the attack.

The guards rushed towards Magellan. “Groups A and B have been whipped out! Groups C, D and E have major losses!” Magellan snarled in fury. His eyes glowing from his anger as his power surged forward.

Buggy pulled his arm out of Mr. 3’s grasp as the wax man had pulled him with him towards the upper area that looked down at the walkway they had been on. “What’s going on partner? Why’d you drag me up here?” He then saw the guards Luffy and Bon Clay were fighting. There had to be well over a hundred of them. “What the hell-“

“Now you see!” Mr. 3 stated with urgency. “I’ve been noticing that there weren’t guards where there should have been. That even the torture pits here lack guards. I think we need to check the staircase to the next level because I have a feeling there’s going to be mass amounts of guards there! I have a feeling that we’re being ambushed here on level 4!”

“What!?” Buggy gasped his heart accelerated and tightened with fear. “Are you saying that the levels pryer weren’t filled with guards because they’ve been waiting for us down here!?”

“Look for yourself!” He pointed downward towards Luffy and Bon Clays fight. “They’re boxing us in on this level!”

“That means they only want Strawhat!” Buggy gasped in realization. “Because we weren’t even coming down this far until that kid.”

“That’s not what’s troubling.”  Mr. 3 said with a sense of doom. “If they’re willing to send this many guards down here to stop Strawhat Luffy,” Buggy gulped. “Then that means they’ll be sending the best of the best; their all-star fighters and I’m not just talking about their demon beast fighters; Warden Magellan.”

Aw fuck. Buggy thought hopelessly. He’d heard of that man. He didn’t care if you lived or died, he was a monster from hell.

Luffy rushed forward, his fist slamming into a guards stomach. “Get out of my way!” He snarled when a glob of purple ooze fell from above. Luffy jumped back. Damn it. He hadn’t been paying attention and therefore had allowed his observation lapse a bit. Now that he pushed it outwards he realized that they were in trouble. A monster has appeared. He thought. Well, I did poke the tiger a bit over the last few hours. Jumping backwards, he landed next to Bon Clay who released the unconscious guard he’d been fighting with.

“Oh no!” Bon Clay gasped in horror. He hadn’t been expecting him of all people to show up yet!

“It’s time to put a stop to your buffoonery now, boy!”  Magellan snarled, his anger present in his voice and stance as his body oozed purple slime.

What is that? Luffy wondered as he sniffed the air. It smells like poop. He cracked his knuckled. Right. I don’t know what this guy’s power is but it’s obviously a devil fruit type ability. Luffy noticed how frightened Bon Clay was. He must be terrifyingly strong and powerful to have Bon so scared.

“It’s Magellan!” Bon Clay gasped out.

“You’re dead now! You criminal scum!” Magellan snarled out.

The semi conscious guards whimpered. “Warden! Please don’t fight yet!”

“Let’s get out of here!” Another cried out as the still conscious guards quickly made for an escape.

Luffy frowned. So this guy is the Warden. He thought. So he’s gotta be the strongest. “Bon. Back up.” He did want his friend to get hurt, especially once he unleashed his next move. I need to see what I’m dealing with here in order to defeat him. He watched the purple ooze sizzle the ground but no corrosion. It’s not acid. Poison? He thought. I know I’m immune to some poisons, but not all of them. If that stuff touches me, I’ll need Bon to get me out of harms way quickly.

Stepping forward, Luffy readied himself. “Strawhat no! That’s Magellan! He’s the user of the venom, venom fruit! He’s the last person you want to fight! Run away!” Bon Clay cried out.

“I never have and never will run from a fight.” Luffy said in a low voice. “If you need to, then run Bon; but I’m not budging! I came here with a purpose and will achieve my goal.” He then grinned. “What’s a little pain to get it?”

Above them Buggy and Mr. 3 heard Luffy’s words. “Is he some kind of stupid?” Buggy asked. Though those words definitely sound like something Roger would have said. The two men turned to run.

“Quite the little rampage you’ve gone on here in my prison.” Magellan stated. “But it ends here, now! However, first I want you to tell me how you broke into my prison? You will spill every juicy detail and the person or persons that helped you will perish for their crime!”

“I’ll die first.” He adamantly stated. “But, since I don’t have time to do that, let’s just get this fight over with because I really have to get down to level 6.” He grinned.

“You-“ Magellan stammered. What kind of- Shaking himself out of his shock. “Very well. Die then criminal!” His body began to completely cover itself in the purple oozing poison. “Hydra!” A snake like extension of himself shot out from his back towards Luffy, who easily dodged it.

“Strawhat don’t let that touch you!” Bon Clay scream. “If it touches you, it’ll be the last thing you do!”

“Maybe.” Luffy grinned ferally. “If I were a normal person!” Steam began to fall off of Luffy’s body as his entire skin turned slightly pink and shiny from the sudden increased blood flow. “Gear second.” Luffy began to shoot across the area destroying the buildings, support structures and walls of everything nearby which began to fall towards the bridge that the Warden was standing on. The poisonous gaseous snake hydra on Magellan’s back zipped after him but was unable to keep up.

Realizing that the boy had somehow gotten faster, Magellan turned his attention towards Bon Clay. The hydra was redirected towards the transvestite who cried out as he was about to meet his doom when Luffy’s body shot out towards him and in a single breath Bon Clay and Luffy were behind Magellan.

As Bon Clay sat up he stared in awe at Luffy. “What are you waiting for!?” Luffy asked in a yell. “Run!”

“Strawhat!” Bon Clay cried. “You’ve shrunk!”

Indeed Luffy had shrank to a child form. “Damn, I was hoping that wouldn’t happen.” Luffy said. “It’s okay. I just need food.”

Bon Clay suddenly picked him up. “Then we shall flee!” He yelled as they ran.

“But I don’t want to run!” Mini Luffy cried out in Bon’s arms.

“Too bad! I want to live!” He yelled back as he quickly escaped the crumbling bridge, as the rubble from Luffy’s attacks came tumbling down from above. Magellan gasped in surprise as the bridge began to fail beneath his feet. Flinging his arm out, the Warden shot the hydra at the escaping duo.

Luffy suddenly blew into his thumb causing the appendage to expand. “Gomu, Gomu hand barrier!” He put the expanded appendage behind Bon as they ran before spreading out his armament haki onto in an attempt to stop any effect from the poison coming towards them. Preparing himself for the inevitable, Luffy clung to Bon and bit his lip waiting for the pain to hit.

As the hydra hit its target, Magellan grinned only for that look to change to confusion as the duo escaped his attack. Impossible! He thought as he fell into the boiling blood below.

As Buggy and Mr. 3 backtracked to the staircase of towards the upper levels they came to a sudden stop. The exit was indeed heavily guarded. “Damn it!” Buggy cursed quietly. “You were right.”

“Yes, but if they’re here, that means the stronger ones are busy with Strawhat.” Mr. 3 stated. “Think about it. These guys must be the weaker one in order to have been placed here while the stronger guards that include the demon all-stars are all after Luffy and Bon Clay. After all it’s far more important for them to stop Strawhat from reaching his goal than to stop him from returning to an upper level.”

“So they’re the crappy fighters.” Buggy said with a chuckle. “We can deal with them.” He eyed the Vice Warden Hannyable. “I’ve never heard of the second in command having any devil fruit.” He eyed the large amount of men. Still. That’s a lot of guards. “I’ve got maybe one or two Buggy balls left. We could possibly get past them but we’ll have to be fast.”

The two men jumped from their hiding place preparing to attack. “Vice-Warden! It’s Buggy the Clown and Mr. 3! We must stop them!” A guard yelled.

Just as the two men were about to release their attacks, and as were the guards; the Vice Warden spoke. “Stand down.”

“Huh?” Everyone cried out in unison.

“Hey once everything is said and done it’s actually Warden Magellan’s fault that the prisoners went on a riot or if some were to escape or even die mysteriously.” Hannyable stated as he picked his ear. “We don’t really need to do anything that would put our lives in danger and since he’s in change the higher up will just blame Magellan. I’ll be promoted then.”

Bugg and Mr. 3 stared in disbelief. The guards couldn’t believe what they were hearing. “Sir. Are you sure you don’t want us to stop them? Give us an order! Anything?” A guard asked him.

“Alright.” He sighed. “Everyone, step aside.”

“WHAT!!!” The guards yelled in unison.

“We’ve been expecting you two. Move aside. Let them through.” Hannyable told the guards. “Don’t be rude to our guests.” The two men were so dumbfounded they couldn’t believe what was happening therefore couldn’t move.

“We’re not stupid!” Mr. 3 yelled out.

“We see through your trap!” Buggy yelled as he extended his foot and a Biggy ball shot out.

The resulting explosion had all the guards crashing to the ground for cover. Hannyable spun his staff in the air, dissipating the smoke. “Are you two idiots!?” He yelled shocking the duo. “I said you could go!” He sighed. “Just get.” He pointed towards the door behind him.

The two quickly side stepped the lot. This is weird. Even for me. Buggy thought as they entered the staircase.

As the door closed, Buggy heard a guard speak. “Sir?” A guard inquired.

“Just radio ahead that there are two prisoners headed towards level 3.” Hannyable stated. “They can deal with them up there.” Buggy’s eyes widened as he realized they’d have to fight just to get back to where they’d started.

Chapter Text

Chapter 37: Long Live the…Queen?

Pain. Unbelievable pain radiated through Luffy’s body as the poison from Magellan’s attack went through his tiny body. In his kid form it would seem he was more susceptible to the poison attack. Luffy had hoped that wouldn’t be the case. Panting against Bon Clay’s shoulder, Luffy struggled to stay awake as his friend snuck past many guards. He supposed that it was best to allow this even though he knew they would have to deal with these people on the way back up. He wondered how many hours he’d been fighting his way down by now. I can hardly move.

Bon Clay looked at child Luffy a bit. He’s not doing well. He ran over to hide behind some pillars at the sound of heavy footsteps. Peering around the pillar he saw Warden Magellan looking for them. If only I could sneak past him. Bon Clay looked down at his hand in disappointment when an idea came to mind. Perhaps I can! He grinned as he ran the opposite way. Just hang on Strawhat! He thought mentally as he ran towards the level 4 entrance. At the entrance he saw the entirety of what was left of the guards. Sitting Luffy down, Bon Clay hoped his friend wouldn’t wake up. He’ll get upset if he does.

Bon Clay transformed his body into the lovely navigator that was a part of Luffy’s crew whom he had touched. “Oh boys!” Bon Clay called out waving at the guards, all of whom blushed once Bon Clay removed the prisoner top to reveal a nice bosom. Suddenly half of the guards passed out at the sight.

“What the hell!?” Hannybal’s voice squeaked as he too fell over from the shock.

“Well that was simple enough.” Bon Clay stated as he walked over to Hannybal’s unconscious form and touched him. The navigator’s body transformed into the Vice Warden’s. From the headdress to the wings on his back, Bon Clay quickly threw the body to the side and hid it. Laying down he then waited for them all to be discovered. Thankfully that didn’t take too long as the Warden returned and grasped who he thought was the Vice Warden’s by the neck.

“What the hell happened here!” He screamed at Hannybal/Bon Clay.

“We were attacked by that dancing ballerina prisoner!” He cried out. “He began spinning and kicking us. He was quite strong, a lot stronger than we were expecting! He and two others escaped back to level 3!” He said assuming the other two were still somewhere on this level. Hopefully Buggy and Mr. 3 will escape easily from here. He thought grimly.

“How could you just let them all escape.” The Warden growled. “Guards! We must recapture those escapees!” The Warden looked back to his Vice Warden. “Was Strawhat with those who escaped.”

“I didn’t see him.” Hannybal/Bon Clay stated hesitantly. The warden growled lowly. Strawhat better not awaken. Bon Clay thought, hoping and silently praying to the god above. Thankfully someone took pity on the man as Magellan turned towards the doors that led to level 3.

“You’re to stay here and search for the man.”  Magellan stated as he made a fist. “Once he is found we will imprison him in level 5 where he will be killed by the cold or the wild wolves.”

“Yeah, if the bastard is even still here.” Hannybal stated. “Unless of course Mistress Sadi and her demon beasts have found him.” It was a ploy of course. Bon Clay had heard of Mistress Sadi but wasn’t sure if the woman had been put into play yet.

The warden waved his hand, dismissing the notion. “I’ve already called her back.” He stated. “With the amount of poison I’ve used against strawhat, he’ll be dead in two hours.”

Hannybal showed no outward emotion of this but Bon Clay wanted to cry. Strawhat! “Then why do I-

Warden Magellan grasped Hannybal by his throat. “Because I said so! I will not be the laughingstock of this prison!” He released the Vice-Warden when his bowels began to make sounds. “Damn it.” He cursed as he walked over to his personal portable toilet. A dozen guards quickly grasping the poles and picked it up and carried the warden away.

Shit! Bon Clay thought as he quickly ran over to where he had left Luffy. The young captain was no longer in his child form but was still unconscious. Picking him up, Bon Clay in Hannybal’s form, ran through level 4 to level 5. Unfortunately he did come to a group of two guards waiting at the doors towards level 5. Groaning lowly, Bon Clay straightened himself out and walked with confidence and authority up to the two men, the extreme cold making him shiver but he could barely it. For strawhat I’ll do anything!

“Vice Warden!” The guards saluted him when they noticed the poison covered man that was wrapped up and being carried by the warden.

Bon Clay mentally slapped himself. Of course they’d notice Strawhat. “Ah, we had a break in. Warden Magellan ordered him to be placed by me personally into a cell on level 5.” He explained.

“Harsh.” One guard said feeling sorry for the man.

“No need to feel sorry for him. He did break into the strongest prison in the world.” Hannybal/Bon Clay explained. “He’s an idiot.”

The guards laughed. “Of course sir!” The guards agreed. “So the usual?”

“Hmm?” Hannybal asked confused.

“No warm clothes. Wearing only what you have and no weapons to defend yourself from the wolves?” The guards asked.

“You say you like proving to us how brave and strong you are.” The guard explained.

“Of course!” Hannybal/Bon Clay declared proudly.

“Be careful though.” The other guard warned. “The beasts seem quite agitated and aggressive today.”

“No need to worry.” Hannybal/Bon Clay stated without worry. “I’m a professional here.”

“Yes sir!” The yelled in unison.

As the door to level 5 was opened, Bon Clay grasped the roister for the level and found the name Emporio Ivankov with a line through it. This caused him to frown. Does this mean he’s dead? NoNoNoNo He thought. I can’t ask. If I do, it could be sign that I’m not the real deal. That man must be alive! He has to be alive! Strawhat needs him. Placing the clipboard back he bravely walked into the freezing cold of level 5.

Luffy felt as if he were dreaming. Before him was Ace and Sabo when they were kids. Ace was yelling at him for being stupid for touching a poisonous frog and trying to eat it. It hadn’t been his fault! He’d been hungry and Ace hadn’t wanted to stop for any berries in their journey. So he laid on the mat in their half finished treehouse with a swollen face, ears and all around feeling of being miserable.

“Ace!” Sabo yelled at the dark haired boy. “You know how Luffy is! You should have taken snacks, like I told you to!”

“He wastes them!” Ace yelled back. “He throws out the nuts and only eats the dried fruit!”

“Then take only dried fruit!” Sabo yelled back. “What if his throat swells because of this? What if he suffocates!”

“Then he’s an idiot and deserves death!” Ace yelled back, his eyes prickling at the edges. “Damn it!” He cursed as he ran over to Luffy and threw the tiny boy onto his back. “I’ll take him to Makino!”

That was the last thing Luffy heard before he woke up two days later with big sis ‘Kino taking care of him. He was fussed over by the green haired barmaid for a week afterwards until both of his brothers came back down the mountain. By then neither Sabo or Ace were talking to each other. Sabo was angry at Ace for allowing Luffy to eat the poison laced frog and Ace was angry at Sabo for not seeing his way in this.

A month later Luffy ate a poison mushroom on Sabo’s watch. Ace felt vindicated when it was Sabo racing down the mountain side with Luffy’s limp body. After that both brothers put up a new rule. No eating poisonous animals or vegetation. Luffy pouted as his brothers breathed easier as Luffy always followed their rules on these things.

Luffy’s eyes opened. He was still hurt; so very badly. Shaking he looked at the strange people above them. Of course. Now he remembered. These people had saved them from those beasts. He had awakened to seeing Bon Clay being attacked from all sides by giant wolves. I think I took a bite out of one. He thought as he shook. His body was far too injured, he was certain he was dying from the poison in his system. “Bon…Bon…” he said his friend’s name. “Bon, he was trying to help me. He got a-a-attacked by those wolves.” He felt his muscles tighten and spasm. He was being wrecked by the pain. Yes, he was certain he was going to die. He let out a gasp. “Please take care of him!” He cried out. “He’s m-my friend. I c-can’t let him die!” The man’s eyes widened above him.

“As you wish.”

Unconsciousness soon enveloped him. Then the most intense pain erupted throughout his body. It felt as if his whole body was on fire. That his bones were turning to ash and then reformed again and again. His muscles spasming, twisting unnaturally and then tearing apart only to be put back together again. His blood ran dry only to be replaced by acid and then the burning began anew only to be worse!

So Luffy screamed and screamed and screamed.

Was it for days? Was it for weeks? Or was it for months that he was tortured by this? It felt worse each time.

He barely remembers what the man had told him. He remembers that it’ll take ten years off of his life. He remembers the man saying it’ll be an intense treatment. He only has a three percent chance of survival. Ace needs me to live! Ace needs my help! He needs me to be strong!

Imperial Healing Hormones!

That’s what that person had yelled before this process had begun. My will must be strong! He thought as another scream ripped out from him. For Ace!

His arms pulled at the heavy and thick chains that were holding him to the metal table. Just as he thought the pain was ending, finally, he heard something.

“Strawhat?” The voice was familiar. It was filled with worry.

Who is that? He wondered for all but a minute when an enormous and sharp pain, like lightning striking your spine, slammed through his entire being.

He screamed. His scream was high pitched and struck the hearts of those nearby.

Ace. He thought as heart clenched. Big brother.

Jinbe looked up at the ceiling of his prison. It’s been silent for several hours. He thought grimly. Did Ace’s brother fail and get captured? He remembered his fight with the fire logia, how he showed such promise. These people wish to use him as bait for Whitebeard; but then never expected an inexperienced rookie to come here to gain allies for his brother in order to stop a war. He leaned back against the wall. His muscles ached from being in one position. Magellan will kill that boy and if he doesn’t- He eyed those on this level in their cells. -then one of these beasts will. There is no honor amongst these monsters. He silently eyed Crocodile. Except for one other perhaps. He watched Crocodile look up at the ceiling before a grin crossed the scarred faced man’s visage. Oh! Something is happening. His attention returned towards the ceiling. Jinbe raised a brow. What is that? He wondered as his haki pressed against another’s above him. It feels like a wild animal. A very large one at that? The haki struck down at him. “Ah!” Jinbe cried out more in surprise than anything else. “What the-“

Crocodile began laughing. His laughing growing in intensity and volume until it filled the entire level. Everyone turned towards the sound, some in curiosity while others; in fear.

The sound ended with Crocodile looking at Jinbe. His eyes were wide and wild looking; almost crazy. “He’s coming.” He announced before laughter filled the level once again from the ex-warlord.

The screams in Luffy’s room stopped all of a sudden as those outside stopped their movements. After awakening Bon Clay had been told what was happening to Luffy. That the treatment would take upwards of three days to complete. Long enough that Fire Fist would be brought to Impel Down; but word had reached them from the outside that Ace was still MIA on the island that the marines had planned to capture him on; though his crew had been executed. Luffy would be upset. It had been twenty odd hours since the treatment had begun.

The Queen of the Newkama; Emporio Ivankov, was standing next to Bon Clay. “Silence this early is not good.” He stated as blood leaked from under the door. His will wasn’t strong enough. He thought sadly. “His silence brings grim tidings I’m afraid.”

“No.” Bon Clay said with a deep sadness to his voice. “Straw boy.” A soft whimper escaped his lips. He was so certain that his dear friend would survive.

“Survival was only at three percent.” Iva stated, his voice soft with remorse. A true pity. He fought valiantly for over twenty hours.

Everyone began crying as the pool of blood trailed down towards them from the locked room that the young man had died in. When suddenly the chains rattled as the door was kicked from the other side. This startled many who jumped back. The door shook with another powerful kick from the other side. Followed quickly by another and another.

Suddenly a loud growling sound came from the other side followed by a scream. “FEED ME!!!!!!!!!!!” Everyone cried out for joy; the boy had lived!

He hadn’t even gone a day! Iva thought with shock. Just who is this boy?

Joy turned into celebration as the Okama began making food and bringing everything that they had for the young man. The food was left outside the doors which were opened. The boy had yet to exit the chamber when stretchy arms came flying out of the room pulling food towards the occupant inside. As one prisoner described it as a sand trap, because the young man truly was acting like one. His hunger was so great and intense that it took every morsel to feel his never ending hunger before it stopped all of a sudden.

As the clanking of a bowl dropping was heard the group stared in wonder as the young man came out looking like a rounded blob. As he came to the doorway, in which he could no longer fit through, the Okama watched in disbelief as the boy inhaled deeply before his body digested everything a returned to his original form!

“I’m healed!” He screamed as he lifted his hands above his head in victory. “Shishishi.” He laughed a laugh that sent shivers down everyone’s spines. “Now, let’s finish what we started Bon.”

Bon Clay felt more giddy than he had in the hours that had passed them by. Quickly running forward he hugged the young man before pulling away. “Whatever you say my friend!” He grinned. “The prison guards won’t know what hit them.”

Chapter Text

Chapter 38: Son of the Sea

Luffy sighed heavily as those around him stared at him in awe and wonder. “Just twenty hours.””It’s a miracle.” “Is he even human?” “Nobody survives Magellan’s poison attack!” “What is he?” “He ate so much.”

It went on and on as each of the strange people continued to speak. Luffy didn’t care because no matter what they said, he survived and now he had to get to the bottom of this prison and gain the support from there there. Suddenly the crowd gathered around him, picked Luffy up and tossed him in the air. Chanting his name or at least his title: Strawhat.

“Bon!” Luffy cried out when he saw his friend suddenly faint. Jumping from the shoulders of the people, Luffy ran over to his friend, careful of his bandages and gently touched him. “You didn’t just die on me, did you!?”

“Bon-boy is just fine. He’s only exhausted from worrying about you.” Stated a voice from beyond Bon. “It’s best to let him rest for a bit.”

Looking up, Luffy saw the strangely dressed man Or is he a woman? Luffy thought cocking his head in confusion. Oh! Wait! “Oh! It’s you Iva.” He greeted the Queen of the Queers; if he remembered that’s how he had addressed himself. It didn’t matter. He liked Iva. Maybe he’d join my crew? I’ll ask later. “Thanks buddy! Your treatment did the trick. Thanks for helping my friend too!” He grinned up at the man.

“Well, I did my best.” Iva stated trying not to take the praise to heart. “I’m not the one you should be thanking. Bon-boy worked hard for you.” Luffy seemed confused. “Yes, I nudged you in the right direction but it was his perseverance and belief in you that helped. He spewed blood. Stayed by your side all night and fought for you to stay alive! All through the power of friendship did he do this. It was quite ridiculous but he even instilled in us the passion of his belief that you’d overcome this adversity.” Luffy stared with amazement at his friend. “He yelled Hang in there! Or You can do this Strawboy! You have to live! Words of such conviction and encouragement.” Iva wiped a tear away. “It was so amazing to watch and experience.” Iva looked down at the young man. “I can’t help but think that your miraculous recovery is all because of this man’s efforts and belief in you.”

Luffy stared in disbelief at his friend. “Thank you Bon.” He whispered to his unconscious friend. “I owe you a great debt that I’ll never be able to repay.”

“I have your hat and clothes, but I’m afraid you cannot leave yet, as it will still take a few days for rest and recuperation for you to be back to yourself.” Inazuma stated as he held out the clothing for Luffy.

The young man looked at the warmly dressed man and smiled his thanks for his clothes being cleaned. “Thank you for your worry but I don’t have time to wait to fully recover. I’ve already wasted too much time. I need to get to the bottom of the prison. Get some strong allies there, destroy the prison and then head out to my brother to kick some Marine ass and stick it to the World Government where the sun don’t shine!”

Iva’s jaw dropped. This young pirates aspirations were undoubtedly the craziest he’d heard in a long time. Certainly something even Dragon would aspire to do but never on that level of insanity. He thought with a wide grin spreading across his large face. “My goodness Straw-boy, you have quite the laundry list to do and yet; I don’t think it’ll quite happen the way you want it to. Rarely do plans go accordingly.”

“Mine will.” Luffy assured the man. “I hate to asked, as you’ve already done so much, but please look out for Bon for a bit. I’ll be back for him later.” Luffy turned to run off towards the quickest exit when he stumbled.

“See, you can barely walk.” One of the Okama told the young man.

Luffy slowly pulled the Vivre card out to check on it. The edges were burning still, indicating Ace was hurting. “Good he’s still alive.” He said softly ignoring the other man. “Before we came here, Bon said he was coming to help release you Iva, aren’t you going to escape too?”

“He was coming to rescue little ole me?” Iva looked at the unconscious man. “Well isn’t that sweet. But alas I don’t need to be saved. Here on level 5.5 I am the Queen of New Kamaland. I know what’s going on, on the outside right now. I have my resources.” He explained when Luffy looked at him shocked. “There’s been a shift in the tide and a big change is about to take place. The world government and the Whitebeard pirates are about to go head to head. Even so, it’s not time for me to break out.” Luffy raised a brow, a silent request for Iva to explain why. “I’m of course referring to my comrade, the leader of the Revolutionary Army, you may know him as Dragon.”

Recognition came across Luffy’s face. “Oh! You’re talking about my Dad.” He stated nonchalantly.

Iva smirked. “Yes, that’s the plan.” He turned his back towards Luffy, his mind not registering Luffy’s comment. “When your Dad makes his move, only then shall me and my fellows appear; call it my grand come back tour. If I were to escape from this place now it would ruin all our well laid out plans.”  He suddenly paused in all thoughts and spun around towards Luffy. “D-D-D-DAD!!!!!” He screamed in shock causing his fellow Okama to jump in fright.

“DRAGON IS YOUR DAD!!!” Everyone screamed in unison.

Luffy looked unimpressed and quite bored at the excitement everyone was showing. “Yep.” He said with a shrug.

Iva jumped backwards dramatically. “You’re dear Papa…” he said in a daze. “And I, his friend, never knew.” He the screamed at Luffy. “Dragon has no children! Don’t be ridiculous!”

Luffy scratched his head. “Huh. Maybe I shouldn’t have said something. Gramps is always saying stupid stuff anyways.”

“Gramps?” Iva asked.

“Yeah. Grandpa didn’t keep it a secret, so I didn’t think much of it.” Luffy said with a shrug. “Big brother Ace got all upset when I mentioned it awhile back in our last communication and big brother Sabo just laughed. So I didn’t think it was that important.”

“SABO!!!” Iva cried out. No it can’t be the same person.

“Oh yeah. Sabo works as the Chief of Staff for Dragon in the revolutionary army. Pretty cool but he thinks he’s gotta protect me all the time. Guess that’s what big brothers do.” Luffy stated with a grin.

Iva’s jaw dropped. “WHAT!?” Sabo? Our Sabo is Dragon’s older son? Ace is his eldest child? What the hell!? Why didn’t Dragon ever say anything!? A sudden memory came to his mind. “Boy, where do you come from?” He demanded.

“Oh. Dawn in the East Blue.” Luffy answered not really thinking much about it.

Iva’s jaw would have hit the floor. “No way.” He whispered. Dragon always was looking eastward as if he were mourning over something or someone out that way. Not only does this boy have an amazing recovery he also comes from the bloodline of Dragon and he has two older brothers! One of which I saw grow up! Just then it hit him. If he really is Dragon’s son, this could be a disaster! Dragon will destroy this place to free this boy! “Inazuma! Begin preparations! We will be assisting Straw-boy from here on out!”

His right hand man knew not to question Iva. Something had changed within a very short time. “Of course.” He answered with a slight bow.

“We don’t have much time.” Iva muttered softly.

“Really!?” Luffy asked. “You’re really going to help?” Luffy then cocked his head in confusion. “Didn’t you say this is level 5.5? Does that mean there’s a level 6?”

“Yep.” Answered a woman behind him like it was obvious.

Iva grabbed Luffy by his shoulders. “You need to keep that a secret! Don’t tell anybody that you are Dragon’s son!”

Luffy pushed himself away from Iva. “Yeah, I just figured that out.” He stated as he walked back over towards Bon. “Bon, stay here and rest. I’ll be back later for you.”

Iva then spoke out. “I’m one of Dragon’s Revolutionary Commanders. As such is the reason I was arrested. As of today I will support Strawhat Luffy and begin recruiting those in level 6 to his cause. Those who wish to join are welcome to.” He placed his hands on his hips. “I just cannot stand idly by and watch my friend’s son get himself killed. Tell everyone the plan! We are going to be breaking out of Impel Down, freeing all who wish to help Fire Fist Ace and bring those dogs in the government down to our level!” Cheers filled the room.

Meanwhile on level 3, Buggy couldn’t believe their luck. The prisoners they’d released earlier had taken out the guards, placing them into the jail cells. “Impressive, even by my standards.” He muttered.

“How are we to get all these people out of here?” Mr. 3 inquired. “There’s just too many.”

I don’t think Strawhat was really expecting so many to actually come with him, that might mean that they’re expendable? He shook his head. If he’s anything like Shanks then that means he’s expecting to find a ship in the harbor for everyone to escape on. He looked around the level as he saw that many were looking to him for leadership. “Okay you bunch lazy louts here’s the plan. Those of you who are wanting to escape probably heard ole Strawhat about his older brother Ace’s plight. So we’re all going to make a run for level 1 and get ourself a ship. Strawhat has gone further down to level 6 and said if we don’t heard from him by mid morning we’re to leave.” Not really but who’s to say the kid is even still alive. Buggy thought. “If any of you survive the upcoming battle I’ll personally enlist you into my group. The Buggy Pirates are always looking for capable fighters who are ready to cause a little mayhem.” He told everyone. Plus I really don’t want to fight an army of marines! He whined mentally.

The crowd of inmates all cheered at his words.

“As encouraging as those words are, Buggy, where are we going to find the ship to keep everyone on?” Mr. 3 asked.

“Simple, the harbor will have battleship and other sizable ships in it.” Buggy pointed out. “All we have to do is escape from Impel and then take a couple of their ship. No big deal.” And if we lose a few hundred here or there, that’s fine by me. “Magellan can’t take all of us on at once. He and those beasts of his were no match for Strawhat.” Hopefully the kid took that Warden out!

“Hopefully.” Mr. 3 whimpered.

“Holy shit! I don’t know why but I’ve got a crap ton of energy!!!!” Luffy screamed as he, Iva and Inazuma raced through the snowy drifts of level 5.

“That would be from my second injection that I gave you when you passed out.” Iva explained.

“It’s good that it’s working.” Inazuma said. “Otherwise we’d be up shit creek. Just don’t waste it.”

“Crude.” Iva stated with a smirk. “Just keep running Strawhat. There’s no security on this level for some reason. So flex those muscles and run like your life depends upon it.”

“As if I could do anything else!” Luffy yelled as his body raced forward with speed that he’s never had before in his life.

Suddenly the giant ice wolves attacked them. “Gomu, Gomu, fist barrage!!!” Luffy screamed as he pummeled the beasts with his fists.

“Oh my.” Iva said with a gasp. He hadn’t really seen Luffy’s abilities in person and the monitor they’d see him fight on didn’t do him justice. As his fists hit the beasts you could hear the cracking of bones as the creatures bodies were beaten to a pulp.

“DEATH WINK!” Iva winked at the monsters in front of him, which sent a sonic wave of energy towards the creatures. The wave hit them with a full force of energy sending them flying into the air and high above their little group. “Inazuma! Open the door!” He yelled as they neared the door to level 6.

Inazuma raced ahead and pulled the locking mechanism to the door. A click and a clank later the heavy door were pulled open. “They’re open!” He yelled out, causing the two fighters to run from the remaining wolves.

In the main control room of the prison the alarms began going off. “The transponders are going off! Somebody is heading down from level 5 to level 6!” A guard yelled causing everyone to rush over to him.

“Oh my god! It’s him! It Ivankov! He’s the self proclaimed Queens of the Queers that went missing years ago!” Another guard yelled.

“Isn’t that Strawhat Luffy! I thought Magellan’s poison killed him!?”

Just who is this Strawhat? Everyone thought.

“A third one is with them! It’s another Revolutionary! Inazuma! He went missing years ago!”

“What the hell is going on?” Vice Warden Hannybal’s voice echoed into the room. He was holding up an ice pack to his head. After returning to the main level he had learned that the dancing ballerina had taken his form and disappeared into level 5. Now Strawhat had reappeared after twenty hours of being MIA!

“Strawhat Luffy has found two missing prisoners from years ago and they’re making their way down to level 6!” A guard responded. He looks upset! Is it possible the fake one is back?

“Since I can’t blame the Warden this time, get the passage traps activated and begin alerting Mistress Sadi about this.” Hannybal ordered them.

No it’s him. They all thought as they began activating the traps and alerting the teams on standby.

“From now on we’ll be monitored.” Inazuma warned the two as they raced down the stone corridor.

“Once in level 6, there’s a man there that I think will be essential to your plight Strawhat.” Iva told him. “His name is Son of the Sea Jinbe; he’s a former warlord that has refused to be apart of any fight against Whitebeard or his sons; including Ace!”

As they raced down the narrow hall they came in contact with the jailers who were waiting for them. Luffy stretched out his foot to block the oncoming troops before he bit his thumb, skipped over gear 2 and activated gear 3. He began blowing a large amount of air directly into his bones, causing the hand and a portion of the arm to inflate and increase in size. He then transferred the air through his entire body. The limb then became a size equivalent to that of a giant’s body part. This caused both Iva and Inazuma to gasp in shock and awe at the incredible ability this young man possessed.

The sound of guns being shot off was quickly followed by bullets being ricocheted off of Luffy’s body as he transferred the air into his torso before it suddenly was transferred towards his arm which slammed into the regiment of troops so hard that many of them would be sent to the infirmary very soon.

Suddenly a still standing jailer pulled a cord in the wall causing spikes to shoot out from every imaginable way. “What a boring little trap!” Iva yelled as he spun quickly. “DEATH WINK!” The spikes broke and splintered as the shockwave from the blast of energy hit the metal.  “HEEEHAW!” Iva yelled quite immensely enjoying himself. I haven’t had this much stimulating fun in years. He thought.

“You should probably not do that down here.” Inazuma warned. “Too much activity could cause an implosion especially since we’re basically on the sea floor now.” He pressed the doors to the next level open.

“Which way now?” Luffy asked as he stepped onto the floor. There were cells everywhere.

“Depends.” Iva said. “Who do you want to save first?”

Luffy grinned up at Iva. “Well, everyone has been talking about this Jinbe guy, perhaps start with him.”

“Of course!” Iva said as he looked around. “I’ve never been down here.” The three men began running forward. As they passed cell after cell Iva began recognizing a lot of the men in the cells as huge bounty prisoner. The colossal battleship is here! He thought as they passed the cell of Sanjuan Wolf; the hugely sized man would make even a giant think twice of fighting him. If I recall some of Roger’s old foes are down here. Ivankov thought.

They suddenly came to a stop at a cell with a blue skinned fishman. “Are you Jinbe?” Luffy asked as he looked at the man before him. He looked like a grand fighter. Probably a noble one too. Luffy grinned as the man crack an eye open to look at him.

“You must be Strawhat Luffy. Boa Handcock was here. Told me to help you.” He said sounding tired and anxious. “There are many warriors down in this level. Why choose me?”

“Because I heard you’ve refused to fight Ace’s old man. Ace is my brother and has tried for years to find a place that makes him happy and if that’s Whitebeard; so be it.” Luffy explained. “So nobody puts a target on my big brothers back and tries to take his happiness away from him! Now I need help to keep those bastards from hurting Ace, by hurting his old man and their crew! So I’m rounding up every available fighter and freeing them if they agree to help Ace.”

“And what should happen if they go back on their word?” Jinbe inquired knowing many would.

Luffy stuck his finger into his nose to pick it. “Simple. I’ll throw them into the sea and let them drown.” He stated as he flicked the booger away. “So? Will you help?”

Jinbe grinned. “You know I do owe that brat another good fight.” He stated sounding ready for a good fight.

Just then a crashing sound echoed across the level. At the entrance to the level where hours earlier Magellan and Boa Handcock had come down from the elevator, said elevator came crashing down, leaving no way up. At the top of level 1, Magellan grinned. “Now Strawhat will have no other choice but to go up through the stairways as there is no other way for him to escape from this place!”

A guard looked down the long elevator shaft. “Sir, as good of a plan this is, doesn’t this mean we’ll have no way down to get to him?”

Everyone stared at the Warden who seemed dumbfounded at this discovery. “Damn it!”

Chapter Text

Chapter 39: Plan of Escape

A slow laugh caught Luffy’s attention. “Kuhahahaha.” Luffy’s eyes widened when he saw the slick dark haired man with a wide chest, broad shoulders, muscular arms and legs, and a thick neck. His hair was messy with strands falling in front of his face. This was Crocodile whom he had fought back in Alabasta. “Mugiwara”, he greeted with a wide grin. “we’ve been waiting for you; Hatchling.”

Luffy cocked his head to the side in confusion. “Hatchling?” Luffy asked as he looked towards Iva. “He’s acting weird.” He stated as he pointed at the former Desert King.

Crocodile looked at the Queen the Queers nervously. “We need to talk after this.” He told the man with a growl, eyes glowing with anger.

“Oh don’t bring that attitude here Croco-boy.” He looked over at Luffy. “Not unless you want your little secret of the past revealed.” Truthfully the Queer Queen was a bit afraid of Crocodile but he wasn’t going let that person know that.

Crocodile looked at the man before him angrily. “Think I care!?” He growled out. “Dragon lied that day!” His eyes looked towards Luffy before he looked away, hurt in his eyes. “Release me and I’ll help you escape. I’ll blow a fucking hole into the ceiling.” He looked at Luffy once more. “I hear you are gathering people to fight for your brother. I’ve never met the kid, but his Pops and I have a thing or two to settle. You help me escape and I’ll help your brother survive to see another day. I can’t promise you will, but I can help him.”

“Screw you!” Luffy screamed at the man. “You left Vivi’s kingdom in ruins. It’ll take a decade; if not more, for them to get their country back to its former glory!”

“Well if it’s any consolation I have no interest in that country any longer.” He smiled cunningly. “I have something else that I find far more interesting standing in front of me that’s more important.”

Luffy took a step back from the man. Iva stepped forward. “However you may feel about this man, Strawboy, we still need his assistance. If we have an opportunity to escape from here we are obliged to take it.” He looked at Crocodile. “You behave.” He said pointedly.

“No promises.” Crocodile stated with a shrug.

“Very well.” They heard Jinbe state. “I will help you help your brother survive. I have known your brother since he joined the Whitebeard crew. He was such a hothead back then.” He smirked. “I told you he owes me a good fight.”

“Alright!” Luffy cheered as he thrust his hands into the air.

“Plus you’ll need someone who can keep that one,” He nodded towards Crocodile. “in line.”

Crocodile growled lightly. “What can a fish man do without water?” He jabbed at the older pirate.

“I could say the same thing about you.” Jinbe piped back.

Luffy grinned. He liked these two already, even if he didn’t trust Crocodile, he felt that he could trust Jinbe. “Inazuma, please release them both.”

“Are you certain?” Inazuma asked sounding uncertain about that decision.

“Yep.” Luffy stated with a grin.

“US TOO!” Yelled another prisoner.  “We like Ace!”

“I’d die for the guy!” Another prisoner yelled after the first.

“You lot,” Ivankov growled. “ARE ABOUT TO EARN YOURSELVES A DEATH WINK!”The group of prisoners screamed in terror at the Queer Queen.

“Shishishi.” Luffy laughed lightly at Iva’s actions as Inazuma activated his devil fruits and began to pick the locks of the cells holding the two powerful men. As their chains were cut from them, the two exited their cells.

“If you think you’ll stop the war between the Whitebeards and the Marines, you’re crazier than me.” Crocodile stated as he stepped forward. “I don’t give a damn but I will repay you for this. I don’t like owing debts.”

“Then it’s settled.” Iva stated with a wide grin. “With a team this formidable, even Impel Down can’t hold us! HEEHAW!”

Luffy smirked. I’m coming Ace! He thought. “Oh! Inazuma, please release everyone else as we leave. The more chaos, the better; right?”

“Eh?” Iva asked.

“WHAT!?” Both the Queer Queen and Inazuma yelled in terror.

He’s nuts. Crocodile thought before a pride filled grin crossed his visage. Crazy little Hatchling of mine. He gave a laugh before activating his devil fruit and began to bend the stone and sand on the floor until a spiral staircase appeared before them leading towards the next level up, level 5.

Just then the alarms began to go off on the level.

In the control tower alarms on every level of the prison were going off. “Prisoner escape on levels 6, 5, 3 and 2!” A guard yelled out as he activated the traps on the levels, dispatched special forces to regain control of the prison.

“We have devil fruit users, Ivankov, Inazuma, Strawhat, Crocodile, Bon Clay, Mr. 3 and Buggy the Jester all on the loose along with over four hundred non-users!” Another guard yelled out over the loudspeakers. “Prepare the prison specialty bullets and be on the watch for devil fruit powers!”

An explosion on level 6 allowed the guards special forces to pass onto the level. As they passed the cells holding the prisoners a man inside one of the cells growled out. “Pathetic.”

One of the guards froze. “Shiryu.” He gasped. Isn’t he supposed to be dead?

“You all are like rats chasing their tails.” He growled out. “While you’ve had your heads up your own asses, the prisoners have escaped up those spirals steps thanks to Crocodile.” He grinned. “Pass a message to Magellan, tell him I’ll help him if he wants for a price.”

“N-No! It’s alright!” The guard stuttered.

“Humph.” Shiryu leaned back against the cell wall. “We shall see.”

The guards quickly raced up the staircase, as they did so one began to call back to control to see what they were to do other than chase these criminals around. One thing was for sure neither Hannibal or Warden Magellan were going to be happy with this new problem.

Crocodile inhaled the smoke from the cigar in his hand. Upon returning to level 5.5 they had been met with Ivankov’s people. The former warlord looked towards the man on the floor, it was one of his former companions; Bon Clay. The man couldn’t move but was quite awake and alive. Good for him. The ex-warlord thought as Inazuma walked towards him with a pile of clothes in his arms. It was odd that they had clothes similar to what he was use to wearing but he really shouldn’t be so surprised. Iva was anything if nothing but prepared.

Iva stared down at Bon Clay, “Are you certain that you are ready? Emperio Energy Hormones will only let you be recovered for today; afterwards it could be three to ten days before a full recovery.”

“I’m certain!” The cross dresser yelled. “I mean what choice do I have? I can’t even get off of the floor. Otherwise I’m completely useless!”

“Of course I could always carry you, but for the record; I don’t want to.” Ivankov stated as he held a hand up. “EMPERIO ENERGY HORMONE!!!” He stabbed Bon Clay into the side as he activated his devil fruit.

Luffy walked over to Crocodile with Jinbe behind him. “Are you ready?”

“Aren’t you forgetting the Queers?” Crocodile asked.

Luffy shook his head. “They’ll come along after we’ve already dealt with Magellan and his people. I still haven’t seen what Buggy called their Special Forces and All Star fighters; which means they’re waiting for us.”

“Hmm.” Jinbe thought out loud. “So you plan to take them out before the main forces can be harmed.”

Luffy looked up at the fish man. “I need them fresh for the big fight against the marines.”

“Understood.” Jinbe nodded.

“So we’re your fists for the warden and they’re your bullets for the marines.” Crocodile surmised. Hatchling is smart. Good. He’s learning to use his brain better. He rubbed his hand on his hook. “Does it matter if we kill or not?” Remembering how the boy and his crew had not killed a single member of his crew.

Luffy sighed, his shoulders drooping a bit. “I myself have not taken any lives, but I’m not so stupid to think that won’t happen. If it’s unavailable, strike them down quickly, do not play with them like I know you like to do.” He answered looking directly at Crocodile.

“That’s acceptable.” Crocodile responded. “So when do we leave?”

“Now, since everyone is distracted.” Luffy answered as they quickly snuck out of the hideout and made their way across the frozen plains to the level 5 exit/entrance.

Chapter Text

Chapter 40: Jailbreak Pt 1

It seemed like a race as the three men ran up the spiral staircase towards level 4. Luffy remained a step ahead of the other two even as Crocodile used his sand ability to fly up the stairs. Flying ahead, Crocodile smirks at the closed door. “Is this supposed to stop us?” He asked as he touched the wooden door. The wood began to instantly disintegrate as his body absorbed and destroyed what little moisture was held into the wood, aging it until it became nothing but dust. “At least they hadn’t thought of putting seastone into the wood. That would’ve been bad.” He stated as the soldiers and guards stood dumbfounded. “So who wants to die first?”

“Boy it’s hot up here.” Jinbe stated as he began to sweat.

“Yeah, no kidding.” Luffy agreed. “I don’t see the strong ones yet.” He mumbled. “Just knock these guys out.”

“Agreed.” Crocodile said. “We shouldn’t waste energy on canon fodder.” He then grinned. “Of course, where’s the fun in that?”

The guards gasped as they began shooting at them as one begins to report back to HQ about their situation. The bullets pepper Crocodile’s body only for his sand ability to heal each hole up in an instant. “You idiots!” One guard yells. “You’re supposed to use the seastone bullets!”

Before the guards can react, Crocodile flys out towards them. “BARJAN!” Crocodile swings his right arm forward while leaving a crescent shaped trail of sand behind it. Anything hit by that trail was instantly robbed of all moisture. The guard’s bodies instantly were left dried and shriveled. They turned to dust before hitting the ground in the next second.

“Oh! I forgot about that attack.” Luffy said offhandedly. Just as the sound of bullets being fired was heard Luffy stretched his arm above him, grasped the metal chain of the draw bridge being flinging himself into the air high above. “GOMU GOMU, RAIN!” He screamed as his fists began to rain down a barrage of hits, most hitting the guards as some hit the ground, creating large craters into it.

Those left behind weren’t spared as Jinbe rushed at them with his Fishman Karate. As his fists hit the air, the guards had been expecting a blow but were surprised when nothing happened; until it did. Dozens of men were shot out by a sudden pressurize shockwave that hit their bodies flinging them like they were dolls. “Arabesque Tile True Punch!” What had happened was Jinbe had transmitted the force of the blow through the water vapor in the air to release a shock wave that sent the guards flying through the air. It hadn’t been as powerful as he had hoped due to the heat of level 4 because most of vapor had dissipated away.

However due to their overwhelming strength all of the guards were quickly taken care of. Luffy glared at Crocodile. The deaths of the men who had fought the sand logia would be on Luffy’s conscience for a very long time. I gave him permission. He thought. I just didn’t think he’d do it so soon. He really is a monster. He tightened his fist. I’ll have to keep an eye on him. He might try something against Ace’s pops.

The sound of a denden ringing echoed along the halls as the special forces were led by Hannyable. Upon answering it the vice warden spoke. “Were you able to subdue them!?”

“Nooo!” Screamed the guards on the other end. “The two ex-warlords have joined the intruder; Strawhat! We’re being killed and defeated on level 4!”

“Killed?” The vice warden inquired. That’s weird. Throughout his rampage, Strawhat hasn’t actually killed anyone. “Who’s killing people?”

“CROCODILE!!!” The end went dead causing the vice warden and his men to scramble quickly to the level below them.

Crocodile walked down through the cells lining the walls. A ring of keys in his hands as he looked for the person he was searching for before coming to a stop in front of a particular cell. Throwing the keys inside he watched the low lives inside scramble for the keys. Until they looked up to see who was their savior. They all whimpered at the sight before them.

“I’m breaking out.” He stated, his eyes landing on the man in the back of the cell. “Do you care to join me, Mr. 1.”

All eyes turned towards the man as he lifted his visage towards the former sand king. “I’ll come only because you asked nicely.” He smirked. “I was starting to get bored.”

On the upper level of floor 2 Buggy and Mr 3 hid within an unlocked cell along with several others when the alarms had begun to ring throughout the prison. “ALL PRISON GUARDS TO LEVEL 4! I REPEAT! ALL GUARDS TO LEVEL 4!”

“No fucking way that’s not for Strawhat.” Buggy said out loud.

“That guy really is something.” Mr. 3 stated. “He not only survives Magellan’s poison, he survived level 5 and below before returning to level 4.”

Buggy looked at his companion. “Do you really think he made it all the way to level 6?”

Mr. 3 looked at him. “Think about it. They’re calling all the guards to level 4; meaning something big is going on down there. That would only happen if level 6 prisoners had escaped!”

Buggy felt the color in his face drain. “Shit, he really is like that guy.” He muttered to himself. “Even the beasts are running to help” Strawhat is in for some trouble, that’s for certain. He looked at Mr. 3. “Well partner, are you ready to get out of here?”

Mr. 3 grinned. “Of course!” He held out a master key he had made from his wax. “This should do it for these cells.”

Buggy swiped the key, opened the door of the unlocked cell they were all hiding it and appeared before the still locked cellmates. “Okay boys, who’s ready to bust this joint?!” He asked the prisoners.

“You bet!” One yelled as a whole set of skeleton keys were thrown at them by Mr. 3.

“Thanks man!” Another yelled out as he picked the wax keys up.

“All you lot have to do is unlock doors as we make our escape.” Buggy explained.

“The more chaos, the better.” Mr. 3 told them as the prisoners began to leave their cells.

“You see, we outnumber the guards.” Buggy began but stopped as Mr. 3 interrupted.

“Even more so now that nearly all have gone down to stop Strawhat and the escaped prisoners of level 6.” The wax man stated.

It also means should any of the All Stars show up they’ll be more likely to fight these guys which will allow us to escape. Buggy thought deviously.

Around them the escaped inmates began to unlock cell after cell on level 2. High above them the Surveillance Transponder Snails began to record all that was happening; sending the video straight to the HQ tower. The guards within suddenly called on the denden’s of those on that level.

“Are there any guards still on level 2!?”

A group of three men paused what they were doing. “My group is sir.” A young man responded.

“Begin a full sweep of level 2! We are picking up activity there!” The HQ guard stated.

In the HQ tower a guard suddenly gasped. “I’ve got Buggy the Jester and he’s got Mr. 3 with him!” He looked at his supervisor. “They’re on level 2!”

“Look up you fool!” The HQ guard yelled into his transponder snail.

On level 2 the guards looked up and gasp in horror. All the cells on the upper floors on the level were being opened one by one. A man with a big red nose and blue hair laughed gleefully as the men were released upon his orders. He stood in front of the crowd with a grin that rivaled that of the late Gol D. Roger.

“Alright you louts, this is your chance! If you want your freedom tear this place apart and let’s escape! We have nothing to lose! Cause as much mayhem as you like!” He yelled gleefully. The faster these guys these this place up and riot, the better. He thought. We’ll escape and stowaway on a marine ship and take it over as quickly as possible.

“YES!” The inmates screamed happily.

“CHEERS TO THE GREAT BUGGY!!!” Others yelled in their joy.

“HE’S OUR SAVIOR!!!

“HIP HIP! HOORAY!!!”

Oh I could get use to this kind of praise. He thought before he began glancing around for their escape. If only I could actually trust these guys. They’d betray me in a blink. He looked at Mr. 3. Perhaps not all of them would.

Screams were heard over the transponders. “I DON’T KNOW HOW BUT ALL OF THE PRISONERS ON LEVEL 2 HAVE ESCAPED AND ARE CAUSING MAYHAM! WE’RE OUTNUMBERED!!!!” The screams echoed on all the transponder units that were broadcasting including to those who were going down into level 4.

Hannyable glared at his denden transponder. This is bad. He thought as he and his men made their way to the level where Strawhat was.

Suddenly more bad news came through. “Vice Warden this is level 4! We’ve found the Queer Queen Ivankov, Inazuma and that guy who tricked us, Mr. 2 a.k.a. Bon Clay!!!”

“WHAT!!!” Hannyable gasped.

“They’ve got a mob of people who are the ones who disappeared over the years and are storming level 4 as we speak! We need backup!”

Hannyable felt his resolve begin to shake. “That-That..” he stuttered. “This can’t be happening!” He felt faint. There’s too many. We’ll never defeat all of them. “Can I even say I could become warden after this disaster?”

Ivankov and Bon Clay both jumped for joy at the sight before them. Luffy and Jinbe were finishing off the last of the guards on this level; Crocodile was notably absent. “STRAWBOY!!!” Bon Clay yelled out happily.

“Shishishi.” Luffy laughed. “Looks like you’ve got your energy back!”

Bon Clay did a spin. “Of course I do. I’ve never felt better!”

Just then a man with a tattoo and a cloud of sand quickly passed the mob of people. Luffy began chasing after them with Bon Clay. “Mr. 1, is that you!?” He asked a bit shocked.

“You know him?” Luffy inquired.

“Of course I do!” He stated. “Your swordsman defeated him back in Alabasta. It was quite the defeat.”

Luffy blinked at that. “Oh. Sorry. I didn’t fight him then. Zoro never said whom he fought.”

Bon Clay looked stunned. “You’re kidding.”

“Nope.” Luffy said. “If it was a good fight, Zoro keeps it to himself unless asked.”

“Interesting.” Bon Clay said amazed by the character of that man once again.

Just then, Iva yelled out “Emperio Face Growth-“

Luffy looked behind himself, his eyes growling large. “Whoa!” Ivankov’s head grew nearly as big as Luffy did when he inflated his entire body when he fought that giant a few months back.

“HELL WINK!!!”

The remaining guards on the bridge screamed as a shockwave of energy hit them. The mob quickly running over those who didn’t get out of their way. Those in charge of the guards whimpered in fear. “WE NEED HELP!!!” They screamed into their transponder snails. “WE CANNOT STOP THEM!”

“Keep going!” Luffy yelled as he punched another guard away.

Crocodile used his sands to throw guards into the nearby cells. Jinbe used another form of karate to kick the guards away as Inazuma and Mr. 1 used their devil fruit blades to cut the guards away from the weaker fighters. They were close to the exit. They just needed a few more pushes before they could lose to level 3.

“HANNYABLE!”

The vice warden jumped as his transponder yelled out at him. “Warden Magellan!” Oh how he never thought he’d be happy to hear that bastards voice. “We’re having a major-“

“Don’t worry, I’ve taken care of level 2” the Warden assured him. Next to him several members of his team wore poison masks as he shot out his poison ooze out at the prisoners. Down the halls Mr. 3 quickly acted placing a thick wax wall between himself, Buggy and those with them and the poisonous ooze.

“Nice thinking!” Buggy praised his partner before looking at the prison exit. “But that bastard Magellan has covered the exit in his poison. We can’t escape!”

Back with the two wardens, Warden Magellan groused. “I just did something that I shouldn’t have done. Master Shiryu has been released in order to assist us in this mess. Until I get down to level 4, you are to get those inmates under control. It is your responsibility now to do so.” Hannyable looked at the transponder nervously. “And don’t mess it up!”

“Hey crab guy! Where’s the exit to level 3?” Luffy yelled at Inazuma before stretching his arms out on either side of the group of soldiers, pressing them as far back as he could and kicking them to the opposite side of their path.

Without missing a beat, Inazuma pointed with his blades. “The bridge to the left.”

Suddenly chaos began to erupt towards their right. “It’s the blue gorillas and Chief Saldeath!”

“Who?” Luffy asked as he spotted the beasts from level 2 down here being controlled by a small man blowing a flute-like weapon made from seastone.

Bon Clay growled. “He’s one of the Chief Guards of Impel Down.” He explained. “He controls the Blue Gorillas.”

“Kill that freak with the big gigantic bloated head!” Yelled an injured guard. “He’s the Queer Queen!”

“Hey! My head isn’t gigantic or bloated!” Iva growled with annoyance. “It’s face growth synthesis!” He jumped out of the mob at the blue gorillas. “HELL WINK!” The beasts were thrown back and away into the guards.

“All he did was wink and it threw them back!” Seldeath gasped in shock. Nobody should’ve been able to defeat over two dozen of his Blue Gorillas and yet this man had.

“I don’t get it.” A guard said. “How can they be so strong?”

“They’re frightening.” Another guard whimpered.

Iva turned towards Luffy. “Strawhat boy! Leave these weakling to us. We can handle them. You need to get to that boat with your strongest and you need to help your brother.”

“Right.” Luffy dropped the guard he’d been fighting.

Suddenly screams were heard. “It’s the All Star Demon Guards!” Iva turned towards his people. “They’ve sent three!”

“Is about time.” Seldeath breathed.

“Mistress Sadi is here!” The guards felt relief.

“That’s right. I’m here boys.” She said as she walked out from behind her beasts. “It’s over now. So bow down, kiss my feet and take your punishment.”

Jinbe ran up towards Luffy who was rushing off towards the exit. “I’ll help you Luffy. I’ll admit that fighting on land isn’t my forte but I can be of some assistance.”

“I’m not complaining, you seem plenty strong enough to me.” Luffy stated as they continued to run towards the exit. “GOMU GOMU-“

“Wait!” A group of the Okama suddenly were blocking them.

“We shall fight them!” Another stated. “As Iva stated, you need to go and quickly!”

“These seem tough!” Luffy gasped noticing the weapons these guys held.

“That’s right. They’re apart of the fighter division.” Iva stated proudly. “These guys have lost friend who were killed by those guards of level 4; more importantly they have a bone to pick with these two Chief of the Guards and the Demon Beasts.”

The Okama fighters began shooting at the approaching beasts first with smoke screens that allowed other melee fighters to approach. When the beasts didn’t fall, they shot out of canons that looked like rpgs seastone chains. The heavy chains wrapped around the beasts.

“No! My babies!” Mistress Sadi yelled out. “Shake those chains off!” She screamed at them.

The metal chains began to break as the beasts fought the tightening of them by the prisoners. As the metal broke the beast began to pound and trample the inmates. “They’re a bit more formidable that I thought!” Iva stated as he turned to run.

“That was stupid, even for you.” Crocodile said as he turned into sand a flew after Strawhat and Jinbe who were using the chaos to escape. With the jailer beasts distracted the three men ran at them.

“GOMU, GOMU! GIANT-“

“Five Thousand Brick Fi-“

“Sandstorm!”

All three beasts turned to defend themselves but were too late as the attacks came in quick and hard. Mistress Sadi screamed in horror as her beloved beasts were thrown behind her against the wall of cells. As the dust settled it revealed them all to be utterly defeated.

Mistress Sadi turned to look at the three men. Just who are these monsters!? “How dare you!” She screamed as she pulled out her whip to keep the escapees from going to the next level above. Sadi whips at her opponents with a pitchfork with a concealed whip. This attack is strong enough to smash the stone bridge.

“Damn it!” Luffy cursed as he went to use an attack on her when suddenly Iva grabbed him from behind and threw him behind the wicked BDSM dressed jailer.

“Didn’t I tell you to keep running!?” Iva groused at the young man. “Your opponent is me now you naughty girl.”

“NAUGHTY!” Sadi screamed. “It’s Mistress Sadi you ugly headed bastard!”

“Oh, such dirty words.” Iva said back. “Emperio Female Hormones!” He jumped over the ruined bridge. “You know sometimes it’s nice to have a girl on girl fight!” Iva’s body had taken on the form of a woman, no longer a man, she jumped at Sadi.

“Man or woman! Make up your mind you freak!” Sadi yelled as she barely dodged the kick at her face by Ivankov.

Iva laughed. “Oh please, jealousy doesn’t suit you little one.” She said with a smirk as her female body bounced a bit with excitement.

“I’ve never fought a Queen before.” Sadi licked her lips. “I wonder if you’ll scream.”

“A woman’s favorite weapon isn’t just her beauty.” Iva quipped as she jumped and summersaulted and kicked at Sadi’s face. “So sad. You must’ve forgotten because you’re so busy cracking that whip around.” They both kicked at each other.

“You’re too slow!” Sadi yelled as she cracked her whip and caught Ivankov by her neck. “Maybe I should behead you after all, but then I won’t get a chance to torture you and hear you beg for mercy! So I’m going to do this nice and slow. Let me hear you scream!”Ivankov grasped the whip and struggled to get free. Flicking the end of the whip, Sadi sent Iva flying into the stone pile that was left of the ruined bridge.

As the dust billowed around her body Iva gave a cry of pain. “My bones! You’ve shattered me.” Mistress Sadi grinned when suddenly she saw Iva standing perfectly fine. “Or not! You can’t hurt me.”

“How!?” Sadi gasped.

“When I injected myself with female hormones I made myself more pliable which allows me to absorb any kind of shock which includes your whip and this pile of rocks.”

“How dare you!” She screamed.

Luffy stood up from the wall rubble that Iva had thrown him into. “Did you really need to throw me so hard!?” He blinked in surprise as a woman dressed as Iva kicked Sadi to the side. “Who’s that?”

“Strawhat!” Inazuma yelled. “To the door. We’re almost to level 3!”

“Right!” Luffy yelled as a YEEHAW came from the woman dressed like Iva. Okay. Weird. He then grinned excitedly before rushing off towards the door with the others. That was when the door opened by itself. People kept running forward but Luffy could sense something was happening. I think it’s time to use that ability that Sabo taught me. He said I was a natural. So maybe if I focus.

“THIS IS THE FORTRESS OF HELL!” Hannyable spun his weapon to stop all from passing. “NONE SHALL ESCAPE IT!”

Who is that? Luffy wondered. Shaking his head Luffy saw the guard beside and behind this man. Right. Taking a deep breath Luffy focused his energy and the will within himself. He’d done this once before at Sabaody, a few times before during his travels with his crew and four times during his training on Dawn with Sabo who had been shocked when he’d done it.

With the will of his entire being, Luffy threw out his haki at the man and his guards. The intimidating look he gave with the sheer amount of will to get past them threw Hannyable and his men off and overwhelmed them. The men fell onto their backs, foam escaping their lips as Luffy’s will threw them all into shock and forced them into unconsciousness. Hannyable’s legs shook as he fell face first to the ground. His vision slowly blurred before darkness overtook him.

Everyone froze.

Crocodile felt his cigar fall from his lips. The amazing willpower of this boy. He keeps impressing me. He thought. This boy, my hatchling, he’s going to overwhelm this damn world.

Luffy panted. “Okay. Let’s go.” He said, his legs wobbling slightly. I think I over did it a bit. He suddenly felt a hand grasp him. Looking up he saw Jinbe standing next to him.

“Let me help you.” He said, a frown crossing his face. He’s more than what Ace told me from that time. He’s got Conquerors Haki. This boy.. He closed his eyes for a second. he might change this world if allowed to. He grinned at that thought as his eyes reopened he could see a deep tiredness in the boy.

“Thanks Jinbe.” Luffy said with a nod as the larger man placed him on his back. I could use a little rest.

Jinbe turned towards their group who were still staring in shock, some not quite understanding what just happened though others did. “You heard him boys; let’s go!”

As they passed the unconscious guards across level 4 Warden Magellan arrived on the floor with his own troops by taking the secondary staircase from HQ. He hadn’t really thought his plan through by destroying the elevator like he had done. Hindsight and all that. He had to stop the rioting and then destroy those in change, however as he and his troops arrived at the primary staircase he was left shocked at the sight before him. All of Hannyable’s troops, along with the Vice Warden were unconscious. Mistress Sadi and her Demon Beasts were left bloodied and out of commission. The Blue Gorillas and Saldeath were also beyond defeated. Also, not a single guard from this level was awake.

What the hell happened here? He growled as his fists tightened at his side. “Domino, find the prisoner and see to where Shiryu is.”

“Sir?” She asked with a single raised brow.

“I released him on the premises he would handle Strawhat or at lease slow him down.” He looked at the woman. “Find him.” The green/blonde haired woman nodded before rushing off to find a working transponder and get a full report from the HQ control tower on Shiryu’s current whereabouts. This whole ordeal was turning into a true disaster.

Chapter Text

Chapter 41: Jailbreak Pt 2

Luffy could count how many times he had fallen asleep during a battle on his fingers. It was eight. Out of those eight times, Zoro, Nami, Sanji or Ussop had been at his side to watch over him. It was mostly Sanji and Zoro as the other two were the weakest of their group. He had yet to fall asleep during a fight with Brook, Franky, Chopper or Robin. It wasn’t that he didn’t trust them, hardly, he just didn’t want to appear weak before them; so he always pushed himself to be the strongest. A captain should be; after all, Shanks was.

So it was strange that he felt comfortable around Jinbe, who was quite literally a stranger to him, and just relax for a moment. He had been awake for more than 24 hours and his body needed the rest. Even with Ivankov’s Emperio Hormones, he needed just a minute to regain some strength.

Buggy glared at the wall of venom that was left behind after Mr. 3 removed his wax. It stinks. He thought. Though it doesn’t seem to be giving off poisonous vapors. How the hell am I suppose to get rid of this so we can escape to level 1? “Magellan, you lout! You are the fucking king of diarrhea!” Everyone looked at him like he was nuts.

“I think Captain Buggy is loosing it.” An inmate stated.

“You should wear a toilet seat for a crown you fucking asshole!” Buggy cursed.

“He’s throwing insults at the poison vapor?” Another prisoner said with confusion on his face.

“I get it.” Mr. 3 said as an idea came to him. “Since the poison is apart of Magellan, it must have a connection to him. So by throwing insults at it, he’s hoping to weaken the poisonous ooze.”

“That’s brilliant!” The prisoners said as the cheered Buggy on.

“Your mom should’ve flushed you, you turd!” He screamed loudly at the wall of venom. This isn’t working but I certainly feel a bit better. “Speaking of turds, you’re a big fat one that needs to be flushed! Oh wait you’re constantly needing the toilet because of it already. You really should glue your fucking ass to that toilet so you’ll never miss it.”

Buggy paused when he heard what Mr. 3 was saying, but it was totally not what he was doing. I just needed to vent. He stretched his back. “Guess this guy is tougher than he looks if he’s taking all the abuse I’m throwing at him.” He said. Might as well play into this. “I’m gonna use the toilet for a second.”

“Don’t tell me..”

“He gave himself diarrhea after a few minutes of yelling at that?” The men looked squeamish for a second.

Buggy looked at them over his shoulder with a grin. “Nope. Just gotta piss.”

“Oh! That’s a good idea.” The inmates all agreed. “We haven’t used the bathroom in hours.”As the men went to the communal bathroom, Buggy tried to think what he was going to do. If they didn’t get that wall cleared his reputation was going to suffer. He couldn’t allow that, but he was also totally out of ideas.

One by one the men all left the room to return to where the ooze was to see what Buggy would do next. When a cry came from the room. Buggy quickly finished to see what was going on when he found his jaw dropping. From top to bottom of the doorway, a single large line was drawn, as if someone with a large blade had passed through and cut the ooze apart. I don’t think I did that. Buggy thought.

“I can’t believe it, it actually worked.” Mr. 3 said.

“Err…yeah, of course it did.” Buggy stated as he crossed his arms over his chest. Buggy began laughing. “And here I thought I was going to have to do this for hours on end. My barrage of insults must’ve find have gotten to him and made his confidence and concentration finally crack; literally.” He eyed the large crack. “It’s big enough that we can escape one at a time into the next level even!”

“This makes no sense.” Mr. 3 muttered to himself.

“Okay. I cracked it. So let’s get moving! One at a time and NO PUSHING!” He yelled out. “So line up behind me and follow me to freedom!”

“HOORAY!!!”

Magellan growled. “Sir?” One of his men questioned sending the change in the Wardens mood.

“My blockade on level 2 has been cut through.” He stated angrily. “I just felt the energy release itself back to me.” The only one who could’ve done that is Shiryu, but why would he- His train of thought was cut through when they came to the door to level 3, it was completely destroyed; much like level 4. “Damn it. This means those lucky bastards that I wasn’t able to catch on level 2 will be able to get through to level 1.”

“We’re some flashily lucky bastards!” Buggy yelled as they burst through the doors to level 1. “Guys! We have finally made it to level 1!” We actually made it! What luck! “Okay! Everyone, we’re going out, but we’ve gotta be careful. There are some marine out there and we can’t have ‘em knowing we’re escaping!” All the inmates nodded at Buggy agreeing with his words.

Turning to Mr. 3, he continued a bit quietly. “Did you do something to the wall?” He hissed under his breath.

“Wasn’t me.” Mr. 3 admitted. “You mean-“ He began trying to keep his shocked expression from showing. “It wasn’t you?”

“No.” Buggy admitted. “This can only mean one thing, that Strawhat has taken so much of Magellan’s attention that he’s either failing elsewhere or-“

“There’s another threat in this prison.” Mr. 3 stated sounding terrified.

“Question is, is this threat worse than Magellan or can we get him to side with us?” Buggy’s thoughts were interrupted by the inmates chanting his name. I’ve gotta get these idiots out of here.

Luffy woke up to heat on his skin and could recall this heat very easily. They were on level 3. Slowly lifting his head, he saw that he was on Jinbe’s back. “Oh, you’re awake.” Jinbe stated acknowledging his wakefulness.

“Yeah.” Luffy said sounding a bit groggy. He then heard screaming. Turning his head he saw the poison hydra’s from Magellan’s attacks. Shit. He thought as he looked on.

“Don’t bother.” Jinbe told him. “Those men are willing to die for this chance both to fight and escape.”

“Keep running!” Bon Clays voice came from ahead of them. “Trust me, you don’t want to look back!”Luffy could see Crocodile way ahead of them with Ivankov and the Mr. 1, he wasn’t too sure, running with Bon Clay slightly ahead of them.

Ivankov was still in his female form when he did another death wink, this time it was directed at the level 2 entrance staircase. Inazuma stood on the opposite way with his dagger claws at the ready for any stupid guards wanting to play hero. Luffy watched as the two vanished from his sight when Jinbe passed them by. He hoped they’d be alright.

Iva watched as his people and the next group of prisoners passed easily through to the next level. “Those were the last.” He sighed sadly as he spotted Magellan’s form getting closer. “Everyone else has been exterminated by him.” Looking towards his companion, Iva smiled. “You know what to do.”

“Yes. Since that’s everyone.” Inazuma held out his hands on either side. “GREAT SCISSORS.” He then ran up the level 2 staircase cutting the walls as he went. As he came to the top he ushered the last ones to keep going before he turned to finish the job, however he hesitated. Iva. He thought knowing the Queen of Queers would be okay but still feared for him. “As you wish my friend.” He then finished the last cut. Upon finishing the entire staircase fell in ruins.

Below the escaping inmates Iva and Magellan began their fight. “This is suicide! There’s no escaping now!” Magellan yelled at the prisoner.

“Ha! If you can’t figure it out, you must be slow!” Iva then stabbed herself and returned to his original male self. “In other words; STUPID!” He then got into a fighting form and yelled “DEATH WINK!” A shockwave of energy slammed into the poison hydra on Magellan’s back. Poisonous ooze splashing everywhere. Several more hydra heads formed off his back. Iva whistled at the two new ones. “So how many heads do you have to show me big guy?”

Magellan snarled which caused the hydra’s to growl and hiss at him. “ Even if you play as their distraction, Strawhat  and his people will never escape they have no way of getting off this island prison.”

“A distraction? Little ole me? Do you really think that you’re gonna defeat me?” Iva asked, yes he was pulling the tigers tail here but seriously, who did this guy think he was; a rookie?

“HEEHAW!!!”

With those words Ivankov began his next round of attacks.

As Luffy and the escapees ran through level 2, Luffy having jumped off of Jinbe’s back upon entering the level, Luffy and the fish man noticed something. “Somebody has released of the prisoners on this level.” Jinbe voiced their thoughts.

“Yeah, but I wonder who?” Luffy said as they passed several dozen empty cells.

“If our luck keeps up, we just may be able to escape this prison by using the prison ships that surround Impell Down.”  Jinbe told the younger captain.

“Hopefully.” Luffy agreed before a wide grin appeared on his visage. His chest was thumping loudly as they got closer towards the entrance of level 1 staircase. He touched his chest. What is this? Why is my heart thumping so strangely? Is it the injections from Iva? The strength in his body had yet to waiver. I’ll need to remember to tell Chopper. He felt a tightening in his chest at the thought of his friends. I hope they’re alright. He frowned. First I’ll worry about Ace; then my friends. He told himself as they came to the staircase. “It’s strange that none of the beast guards have tried to stop us.”

Crocodile spoke up. “They’re hiding because we are too many for them to handle.” He stated before grasping Luffy by the collar of his shirt. “Now keep running boy!” He then threw Luffy into the next staircase as his senses picked up something happening across the prison floor.

At the entrance of level 2 where Inazuma waited for Ivankov, the floor below began to shake and tremble. Thinking it was Iva, Inazuma gasped in fright when in fact it was Magellan who came out of the floor at him. When the dust settled, Magellan growled. “So you are the next distraction for me to fight!?”

“Do not presume me to be weak.” Inazuma told the warden as he cut the cells nearest to him and sent them flying towards the poison master.

“Your stall tactics won’t work!” He growled out as he blocked the bricks from harming him. Pushing them to the side, the warden began to approach the man who feared he was about to be at deaths door very soon.

Buggy gasped. “How’d this happen!?” He screamed as he and his fellow escapees were being chased by the four demon beasts of Mistress Sadi. “These guys were supposed to be on level 4!” Suddenly Buggy slammed into someone, only to grabbed by that person before falling. Looking up he saw a slick black haired man with a hook in hand. Crocodile!!! He mentally screamed. I’m dead.

“Buggy?” Mr. 3 questioned when he saw who held his friend. “B-B-Boss!?” He was shocked.

“Oh? It’s been awhile Mr. 3.” Crocodile greeted his former employee. “I see you’re acting like a coward, like always.”

Who the heck and release this pain in the butt?  Mr. 3 thought sadly. I never wanted to see this guy again.

“CAPTAIN BUGGY!!!” The inmates following the jester yelled.

“Look, those guys defeated the Demon Beasts!” Another pointed out.

Buggy peered around his people. “STRAWHAT!”

“That’s Warlord Jinbe!” Mr. 3 gasped.

Luffy turned towards the screaming. “Hey! It’s Buggy! Mr. 3 too!” Luffy greeted them. “Good job at freeing everyone!” Just as the two groups of over two hundred joined Luffy felt it.

“HYDRA!”

Everyone turned in fear as Magellan appeared on level 1. “Magellan is on this floor too!” Buggy screamed.

“Crap! Something bad happened to Iva and Crab guy!” Luffy yelled out causing Bon Clay to tear up.

“I’ve dealt with that pervert and his friend very easily. Now it’s your turn!” Magellan yelled out causing the prisoners to scream and run in panic.

Luffy growled. I’ll have to do it again. “Jinbe, Buggy, get them out of here!” He order the two.

“No complaints from me!” Buggy stated as he turned towards the panicking inmates. “Stop crying like babies for their mamas you idiots! Head for the door!”

“CANDLEWALL!”

Everyone stared in shock as the onslaught of hydra poison attacks were suddenly stopped by Mr. 3’s wax attack. The poor man looked exhausted after covering the space between them and Magellan from floor to ceiling in wax.

“Impressive.” The former sand king complimented. “You’ve must’ve been practicing that one.”

“Don’t let this distraction be for nothing.” Mr. 3 said. “It’ll only hold for so long.”

“You heard him!” Luffy yelled as he turned towards the exhausted man he continued. “You go with them.”

“But-“

“I have a plan.” He assured him. “Think you can make me one thing first?” He asked before whispering into his ear.

“I think I can do that but it’ll be all for awhile.” Mr. 3 admitted. Gathering his energy he formed a ball of wax, sculpted it before throwing it at Luffy. The wax hardened into armor gloved and feet for the young captain to fight with.

“Thanks for giving me this chance. Now go!” He pointed towards the exit. Mr. 3 quickly stood and followed his orders. “I’ve got this.” Jumping over the wall, Luffy landing on top before pushing himself at Magellan. As the hydra came at him with three heads, Luffy dodged them mid-air. “Gomu, Gomu, Champion Rifle!” The first gloved fist hit Magellan who blocked it with his arms. The man did grunt at the pressure from the fist. Luffy grinned because now this guy thought both fists would be the same.

As pulled back, Magellan’s hydra went to hit him only for Luffy to bounce with his new armor boots that Mr. 3 had created for him. Once in the air both of the other two hydra’s attacked only to be dodged mid-air again. As Luffy came down onto Magellan he screamed out “Gomu, Gomu, Champion Bazooka!” This time under the waxes gloved Luffy infused his arms with armament haki, giving him a bit more strength to his hits. This hit made its mark as they separated Luffy saw a single line of blood drip from Magellan’s forehead to his chin.

“Very well.” Magellan stated. “If you want a fight like this, I shall give you one you’ll never forget; even in death.”

As the group of prisoners escaped into the light, some seeing it for the first time in years, they all gasped horror as they saw no ships in sight! “All of that and we’re still prisoners!” One yelled.

“I can’t believe it.” Mr. 3 moaned in horror.

“They can’t sense them.” Jinbe stated lowly.

“Hmm?” Crocodile asked looking at the other former warlord questioningly.

“They’re all out there.” Jinbe stated. He then walked over to the prison door.

“Unfortunately we can’t get to them.” He looked at the water. “Even if we all could swim, the calm belt is notoriously filled with deadly sea kings. This is why Impel Down is the perfect prison.”

Just then everyone turned towards the sound of something ripping and saw Jinbe pulling the door, which was at least twenty feet tall, off of its hinges like it was as light as a feather before tossing it into the water. Going under it, acting like it’s propeller, Jinbe chuckled when only Crocodile and Mr. 1 got onto the raft. “Only two of you?” He asked.

Buggy suddenly jumped onto it as well. “Well, I best go too. You’ll never survive without my geniusness.” He stated even though he was terrified.

“I knew I could count on you.” Jinbe joked lightly.

“You can do it Captain Buggy!” The inmates all cheered.

Just how did this guy get their loyalty? Crocodile wondered with amazement. He knew the clown was a jokester and wasn’t even a serious pirate. So how?

“What?!” Buggy asked.

Maybe he’s something else? Crocodile wondered. “Nothing. I’m just observing.”

“Eh?” Buggy questioned. “Observe something else then.”

Crocodile raised an eyebrow at that statement. Oh?

Jinbe swam their raft towards the blockade of ships before throwing the raft at one. All three prisoners jumped as the ships canons tore the raft to pieces. Making onboard the ship, Crocodile and Mr. 1 were quickly surrounded by the marines. “So who’s going to be the first to try to throw us off the ship?”

“Don’t be stupid.” Mr. 1 threatened as his hands turned into daggers.

Meanwhile Buggy, had grasped the sail as he’d fallen onto the ship. Had he not done so he may have ended on the dead bloodied before the fighting had started. Looking down he could take advantage of his vantage point. Looking around he saw that the sniper wasn’t paying attention in the crows nest and quickly flew over to the spot, slammed his fist into the guy’s head and knocked him unconscious. Picking his pockets, he found two daggers and an explosive pack. This might come in handy. He thought as he pocketed the explosive. If anything I can use that to make a couple of Buggy Balls.

Just then a whirlpool appeared in the sea. At the center of it Jinbe rose out of the water. “Behold my true fish man Karate! Spear wave!” A wave of energy and water sliced through the ship. Many fell into the sea as others fell onto the deck the other two were on.

“Watch your aim.” Crocodile said nonchalantly.

The soldiers gasped at the power displayed by the ex-warlord. “Oops. I forgot we were using that ship. My bad.”

Buggy gasped. What an idiot. A powerful idiot; but an idiot anyway. He groaned. Please don’t let that one join Strawhat. That’s all we need. He groaned inwardly.

“Gomu, Gomu, Champion Gatling!”

“Hydra!”

Luffy’s attacks hit the poisonous hydra’s like they were noting even if they reformed they were still getting hit. Until finally he battled away all of the hydra formations and hit Magellan squarely in the face with his armament haki infused wax fists. His hands snapped back as the warden fell backwards.

Magellan spat out blood from his mouth. “Even if you escape to the top, you’ll never escape. I’ve ordered all ships away from Impel Down.”

“So that explains why they weren’t there when I got to the control center.” A voice sounded causing both Luffy and Magellan to look off towards their right.

“Shiryu, where have you been?” Magellan inquired angrily. “It doesn’t matter. I’ll deal with you later. For now help me stop this man.”

Luffy looked at this Shiryu guy. He looked to be strong, very strong. I might not be able to use my haki on him. He looked back at Magellan. I almost have him to the point I can use it on him but- Luffy knew he might lose if the new guy joined up with Magellan.

Shiryu grasped his sword and unsheathed it. The blade turned black, though Luffy could see the armament haki covered blade; Magellan could not see the haki and only saw the blade as it was regularly seen. “You know, I should thank you for releasing me.” Shiryu told Magellan.

“Later.” Magellan stated as he thought he had gained a new ally.

Shiryu got close to his former underling. “You are a fool.” Shiryu stated as he sliced Magellan’s right arm off. “You shouldn’t have let me get near you.”

Magellan screamed in absolute pain as his arm was sheered off by the former head warden. “Ahhh!”

“Whoa.” Luffy gasped.

“Boy. Leave.” Shiryu told him. “Because the next time we meet I’ll be taking your head.” He sneered gleefully as Magellan began to glow red. “For now, I’ll settle for yours!”

Luffy quickly turned on his heel. “Right.” Luffy quickly made it to the entrance only to find Bon Clay, Mr. 3 and the others waiting. “What’s going on !?”

“STRAWHAT!?” Bon Clay and Mr. 3 gasped in surprise.

“Wax release!” Mr. 3 yelled releasing the wax on Luffy’s arms and legs.

“Hey, thanks!” He thanked the wax user. Looking at Bon Clay he spoke again. “Why hasn’t anyone left?”

“There’s no boats in the harbor!” He answered. “They’re all out of range in the fog. Jinbe, Buggy, Crocodile and Mr. 1 went to get us a ship but all we’ve heard is fighting.”

“What happened with Magellan?” Mr. 3 inquired quite surprised Luffy had actually won.

“Some other guy showed up to fight him with a sword.” Luffy shrugged. “He even cut Magellan’s arm off!”

The two former baroque works members looked at each other. “A man with a sword?” Mr. 3 asked Bon Clay who shrugged.

“I think the warden guy called him Shiryu?” Luffy said not sure if that was correct or not.

“SHIRYU!?” Everyone shouted.

“We really need to leave.” Mr. 3 stated as he worried that they weren’t going to make it out.

Suddenly the ground shook as Ivankov came barreling through the floor barely alive with Inazuma in his arms from level 2 below them. Just at that moment Shiryu and Magellan rounded the corner. Shiryu being pushed back by the red demon that Magellan had created using his most poisonous ability.

“What the hell is that?!” Luffy screamed.

“I don’t know, but I don’t think we want it touching us!” Bon Clay yelled out. He looked at Iva. “But thank goodness you’re alive! We can’t lose you!”

“Iva!” All the Okama yelled out as their Queen passed out from his head injury whilst still holding onto an unconscious Inazuma.

One of the Okama threw a baby denden transponder snail at Luffy. “It’s from Jinbe!”

On the skip Buggy sat on the former ship’s captain while wearing his jacket. “That was more fun I’ve had in a long time!” He said keeping the daggers against the captain’s neck.

Crocodile looked at the man annoyed as he, Jinbe and Mr. 1 had taken out the rest of the all the while Buggy had felt with the captain, vice-captain and a single sniper. “Now he shows up.” Crocodile complained.

Jinbe shook his head before raising the snail up. “Are you at the exit?” He asked the younger captain.

“Yeah. But Magellan is still after us! He’s fighting some guy named Shiryu.” Luffy stated.

“Just trust me then!” Jinbe told him. “We’ve got a ship now. You may have to jump into the sea but we will be there! Trust me.” He ended the call.

“Trust him!?” Mr. 3 asked. “You and I are devil fruit users. We’ll die!”

“We’ll all die if that demon touches us!” Bon Clay yelled out with fear.

“I trust him.” Luffy stated when suddenly a few screamed when the red monster got closer. “Mr. 3, another wall please?” Luffy asked.

“This is the last time!” He yelled at the crazy young man.

As soon as the wall of wax was formed thickly, the red poison demon hit it. “Gear 3!” Luffy yelled out. “Gomu, Gomu, Giant Stomp!” He blew up his foot with air turning it into a giant foot. Concentrating, he covered it with armament haki and slammed the giant foot into the wall of wax at the same moment the red poison demon slammed into the wall of wax only for the beast that Magellan had become to be kicked across the room by the haki coated foot.

Luffy’s air suddenly spewed out causing him to become tiny Luffy. “Shit!” He squeaked. “Iva! Wake up! I’m too tiny to fight! Get your fat head up off of the ground!”

“Huh?” Iva asked deliriously.

“Do a death wink or hell wink!” Tiny Luffy yelled. “You’re the strongest person here right now!” As he jumped his body regained its teenage form. “Everyone jump onto Iva big fat head!”

“They wouldn’t!” Magellan growled out.

Shiryu smirked. “You don’t know the desperation of these people.”

“They’ll die the moment they touch water!” Magellan countered.

Even as it was spoken every single prisoner jumped onto the Queen of Queers massive body. “HELL WINK!!!” The prisoners were sent flying through the air, passing the Impel Down gates, over the water when Iva lost consciousness. His body began to fall. Everyone cried out in fear only for the group to be caught by giant whale sharks.

“Jinbe must’ve called for them!” Someone yelled out. “It’s a school of them!”

“Shishishi!” Luffy laughed. Knew I could count on him.

The whale sharks brought them to the commandeered ship. “You have no idea what I had to go through to get you all here.” Jinbe stated as Luffy and the others began to look over the ship. “Leave the rest tome. I’ll get us out of here and then we’ll go save your brother.”

“How can he be so calm?” Buggy asked. “We still have over a dozen ships after us.” Just as he said that a canon flew by.

“Relax.” Luffy told everyone panicking. “I trust Jinbe. He’ll get us to safety.” He gave the ex-warlord a thumbs up. “Do your best.”

“He’s either stupid or brave.” Buggy muttered. “I can’t tell anymore.”

“He knows Jinbe will do as he says.” Crocodile stated as he took a seat on a crate. “So do as Strawhat says. Relax a little because soon the real battle begins and we can’t be tired for that.” He grinned at the thought of causing a little more chaos before the days ends.

Chapter Text

Chapter 42: Brothers

Morning of Day 2

Marco then looked pointedly at the young man. “Stay. Below. Deck.” He then looked at Sabo. “He’s your responsibility.”

Sabo glanced nervously at his brother. “Oh, this should be good.” Ace said with a wicked grin. Sabo had a feeling that his brother was about to do something stupid and he was going to be one at fault.

Pinching the bridge of his nose, Sabo pleaded with his twin. “Please don’t do something stupid.”

“Where’s the fun in sitting around doing nothing?” Ace asked with a grin. “My people were killed by those bastards. I want retribution for their deaths!”

Sabo supposed he would feel the same way if something happened to both of his brothers. He’d want revenge for their deaths and he’d want those who were responsible for them dying to pay ten fold. He tapped his finger on the bed Ace was lying on. Masked Deuce sharing a look with the Revolutionary. The masked man wanted the same as Ace. “Okay, but we’ll need a plan.”

Ace grinned. “I was thinking we’d do like we did the Old Bandit Clan who attacked Dadan that time.”

Sabo grinned a similar smile like Ace’s. “Fast and hard and hope Luffy doesn’t hear about our stupidity and copy us?”

“YES!” He threw his head back with a deep rumbling laugh. “Ow.” He winced as Deuce shook his head at him.

“I thought having you here would alleviate the situation not make it worse.” He mumbled with a bit annoyance detected in his voice.

“We’re D’s.” Sabo told him. “What part of that states I’m anything other than like my brother’s?”

Luffy laid out on the deck of the Marine ship trying to get a little rest before their big fight. Jinbe had assured him that they’d arrive in a couple of hours to the island. The whole ship was buzzing with so many voices and with his haki he could feel the strength of those around him. Closest to him in strength were Buggy, Ivankov and Crocodile. Out of the three surprisingly Ivankov was the weakest on his haki radar, if you could call it that. The Queer Queen had taken a huge dose of Magellan’s poison to his body. He was a bit sad that Bon Clay had stayed behind but understood they’d never have escaped the harbor attack had he not. They’d meet again, he knew that and next time he’d ensure his friend’s safety.

“Oh! Captain Buggy!” An inmate called out as he came up the steps from the hull. “I found some booze!”

“Booze!” Buggy yelled excitedly. Rushing forward he examined the barrels. “That’s not just any booze, it’s Elbaf sake!”

“WHAT!?” Everyone gasped.

Luffy sat up and looked to Jinbe. “Is that a good thing?” He asked.

The shark man laughed. “Elbaf sake is the best in the world. To the point that it’s currency to some island near the Giant’s Island.

“Best never let Nami or Zoro know.” Luffy joked. “Zoro would make it a challenge to drink as much as possible and Nami might try to steal as much as she could!” Luffy burst out laughing.

Without missing a beat Buggy found a glass, poured him some of the sake. “Alright Everyone!” He began as held to glass up. “I purpose a toast to all of us who made it out of Impel Down alive. This unprecedented, unheard of breakout was a success thanks to all of you, Strawhat and myself; of course.” He grinned as he noticed the look from the younger captain when he was handed a cup but waved it off. “CHEERS!”

“Next stop, Banero Island.” Jinbe announced. Luffy got a thoughtful look on his face causing the ex-warlord to look at him. “Luffy?” Him calling out the younger man’s name caused some to look at him.

“Ah.” Luffy looked at him startled. “I was just thinking that maybe I should call ‘Bo.”

Jinbe raised a brow but it was Iva would spoke. “Who is this ‘Bo fellow?”

“Oh! He’s Ace’s twin.” Luffy said with a grin.

“Ace has a twin!?” Many who were listening asked at once all picturing another young man with Ace’s looks and brash attitude.

“Two of the same guy, now that’s bad luck.”  Buggy muttered as he finished his drink while sitting on a crate.

Iva looked towards the doors of the medical room as Buggy spoke. He was worried about Inazuma. “I only survived because of my hormone injection.” He stated quietly to the Okama present. “It’d be best for him to heal naturally as my ability can take years off of someone’s life; depending on the treatment of course. He indispensable to the New Okama people.” Iva looked back at Luffy. “Is this ‘Bo fellow strong?”

Luffy laughed. “Yep.” He announced before pointing towards himself. “He trained me.” Everyone gasped. “He’s even the Chief of Staff of the Revolutionary Army.”

“Eh?” Iva asked shocked. “Wait a minute.” He waved his hands at Luffy. “Last I heard that position was given to a young man named Sabo.” I personally watched that boy grow up. Don’t tell me he’s- A image of Sabo being killed appeared in his mind.

“Yep, that’s ’Bo!” Luffy stated proudly.

“WHAT!?” Iva screamed, his jaw dropped.

“Yeah. A couple of years back he returned home after he had regained in memory back.” Luffy explained. “He trained me and then returned to his duties.”

“Can you imagine that?” An inmate asked. “One brother is second to Dragon while the other is the Second Division Commander of the Whitebeards.”

“Just who is this guy?” Another asked in amazement. They all looked at Luffy with shock and aw.

“Top that with all three of you being Dragon’s kids, that’s one hell of a family pedigree!” Iva yelled out. “HEEHAW!”

“Huh?” Luffy asked curiously then the piece clicked into place. “Oh!” He shook his head. “Actually, Ace and ‘Bo are Gol D Roger’s kids and I’m their adopted brother; apparently I’m this Dragon’s son.” He shrugged his shoulders.

“WHAT?!” The whole ship cried out in shock.

“Yeah. Ace always hated who his blood father was; I don’t know why. I think it’s cool.” He then realized something. “Uh. I guess I wasn’t supposed to say that.” Everyone started at him in shock.

Jinbe laughed. “Your family is something else.”

Luffy grinned. “Ace has always been the strong one amongst us three. He’s been fighting since he was four against everything and anything that put us, his brothers, in danger. From bandits, tiger’s, pirates, rockslides, giant crocodile’s and apes to Gramps, the Marines, and outsiders.” He grinned. “For once I think it’s our turn as his little brothers to save his life.”

“There’s just one problem, hatching.” Crocodile’s deep voice caught everyone’s attention; including his ex-commanders. “That island will be surrounded by a huge Marine force; how will we get past it?”

Luffy grinned a true D smile that sent shivers down everyone’s spines; Buggy’s included. “Just leave that to me. We’re meeting a friend who will help us with that.”

“A friend?” Buggy eyed his suspiciously. “Who?”

“Rayleigh.” Luffy answered simply.

“Rayleigh!” Buggy gasped. “Roger’s first mate?”

“Yep.” Luffy said with an even wider smile.

“Oh! It’s been years since I’ve seen or thought of him! Where was he?” He asked not realizing how loud he was being in his excitement. Truthfully he’d thought the old guy was dead after all these years. He knew Crocus was alive but everyone else had scattered to the winds. Hell, he hadn’t heard anything on Gabon in years.

“Are they seriously talking about Dark King Rayleigh?” A whisper reached Buggy’s ears.

“How does Captain Buggy know that man?” Another whispered.

Shit! He thought. Me and my big ass mouth!

Luffy blinked at the men’s words before smiling proudly. “He and Red Haired Shanks use to be apart of the Roger Pirates.” He announced causing every single person to gasp in shock.

“WHAT!!!!!”

Ace and Sabo snuck around the Whiteboard ship going deeper into the abyss of the ship. The myriad of twists and turns in the enormous ship had Sabo absolutely turned around. If he got separated from Ace, he was certain he’d be lost in seconds. This is why the Revolutionary Army has never been able to infiltrate this ship. He thought. It’s like an island onto itself.

Coming to a dead end, Sabo thought maybe Ace had lost his way, only for his brother to wave him to stand never to him. Stepping forward, Sabo realized that there was a lever next to Ace. “Ready?” He asked.

“For?” Sabo asked gaining a cackle from his brother who moved the lever downward.

“With the Striker out of commission,” he stated as the floor began moving down. “I figure it’s time to take the next best thing out.” As the elevator came to a stop they walked out onto a platform that lit the room up revealing the underbelly of the Moby with several smaller Mini Moby’s waiting to be used. Ace went past the large ships until they came to a sleeker version of the Striker made from metal instead of wood. Looked more durable and was a bit larger too. “The striker was originally a prototype. I’m actually surprised she last as long as she has.”

“Does this one have a name?” Sabo asked as Ace jumped onto it.

Metal straps grasped at Ace’s feet, keeping him in place. “Rogue.” He stated with a grin.

Sabo grinned at the sentimental value of this ship. “Sap.” He teased garnering a tongue being stuck out at him. “Mature.” He scoffed as he easily got onboard.

“You’ll like this.” He stated as a gun popped out of the ship. He pointed towards his feet. “It’s connected to me, allowing whoever is with me to have access to my powers. It’s limited and its short range so be careful.”

“You’re nuts.” Sabo stated gaining a laugh from his brother. “A genius, but still nuts.” As the two brothers snuck out of the hold of the ship, they never would have guessed that at that moment their youngest member of their family was making his way to them in the most unconventional of ways and would be surprising everyone with both his strength and the crew he had managed to procure. What’s more, the world would once again be reminded why you don’t anger a D.

Chapter Text

Chapter 43: Surprise

Buggy’s jaw was dropped as he stared at his old crewmate, the former first mate of the Roger Pirates; Dark King Rayleigh. He looked the same as always, arrogant bastard. “Hello, Buggy.” He greeted the former apprentice.

Buggy felt like that scared shitless thirteen year old boy once again. His bones quivered, his muscles begged to be released from the stress he was putting on them as his fight or flight mode was about to be engaged. This was one of the few men who could see past his bullshit and call him out on it. Quickly pushing down his instincts, Buggy swallowed the whimper threatening to come out. “Rayleigh.” He greeted as he pinched his arm and pushed down hard on his instincts once again.

“Rayleigh!” Luffy greeted the man like he was a long lost friend and for a moment Rayleigh saw Roger’s image overlap the young man’s form.

Rayleigh looked over the motley crew Luffy had with him. Pressing his haki outward he could sense a few haki potential’s and a couple haki users even. He looked at the former cabin boy and wasn’t too shocked to feel how strong his haki was. Buggy couldn’t use Conquerors haki but he could use Observation and by the feel, perhaps even Armament.

Good. The boy is a competent man. He thought as he quickly turned his attention towards the others. “Jinbe. Crocodile.” He greeted the two former warlords. “Luffy, I’m impressed by who you’ve gathered.”

Luffy pointed at Buggy. “Buggy helped.” He stated gaining a growl frown the blue haired man.

“HELPED!?” He yelled at the boy. “I got more people than you did!”

Luffy cocked his head at him. “Really?” He questioned.

“Yes!” Buggy screamed at him. “Geesh.”

Rayleigh chuckled. It was good to see that the blue haired man hadn’t changed since he was a teen. “Alright Luffy, I came.” Rayleigh said. “What do you need from me.”

Luffy grinned. “I need you to go wild like you use to.”

Rayleigh’s eyes widened. “I haven’t gone wild since-“

“Since Roger’s death?” Luffy asked. “Sure taking out a few slavers here and there keeps everyone aware that you’re around but it doesn’t send a message.”

“And what message do you want to send?” Rayleigh asked though he could already see it in the young captain’s eyes.

“That you don’t touch those that are MINE.” Luffy stated everyone gave a gasp at the hint of Conquerors haki lacing the last word. “Ace is Roger’s child. Everyone has failed him in his life except for me and ‘Bo because he is our brother. I’m not failing him now.”

So Portgas D. Ace really is Rogue and Roger’s kid. Rayleigh thought as he looked at Luffy. His eyes turned towards Buggy who had a Marine captain’s jacket on his shoulders looking every part of a menace he remembered him to be. “And what say you to this, Buggy?”

All eyes turned towards the man. “They took everything Roger had and destroyed it.” Buggy stated. “Including his name.” Many of men took pity on him for those words. “However, his kids survived and I say we do everything to ensure they continue to thrive despite those bastards wanting to kill Ace.” His lips spread into a wide D. “I say we give them a reason to fear us for touching that boy. Roger may be dead, but those of us who carry on his will are not.” For fucks sake, where the hell did that speech come from? Buggy thought in a deadpanned voice. The whole ship began cheering at the speech.

Oh? Rayleigh thought. When did this boy get a backbone? A glint entered his eyes. “Very well. It’s been awhile since I’ve had a chance to let loose.”

“Shishishi.” Luffy laughed. “Your job is simple.” Rayleigh raised a brow at him. “We’re not going around the barricade that the Marines most likely have set up.”

“Not around?” Mr. 3 asked from beside Buggy.

“Oh, no.” Buggy said feeling dread building up inside him.

Crocodile's laugh, which consisted of a dry chuckle, “He He He.” Had everyone looking at the ex-warlord, fear slowly churning in their stomachs.

Luffy’s lips spread into a D shape. “We’re going through it.”

As Ace and Sabo brought the Rogue out of the bowels of the Moby, Ace was shocked to see the ships of all fourteen commanders in the harbor of Banero Island. Sabo touched his brother’s shoulder as he could sense the other becoming emotional. “They’re all here.” Ace gasped.

“Of course they are.” Sabo told him as if it was the most natural thing to say. “You’re an important member of their family and both you and that samurai were under attack for the last two days. I’m surprised that Whitebeard hasn’t begun a war over this yet.”

“No.” Ace shook his head. “I’m not-“

“If you say you’re not worth this I’m going to hit you over the head with my pipe.” Sabo threatened as he growled in frustration at his older brother.

Ace looked over his shoulder at him. “‘Bo.” He whispered as tears threatened to fall from his eyes.

The sound of Whitebeard’s weapon staff hitting the ground as he climbed the steps to the upper deck of the Moby was heard causing Ace to look up. He hoped his Pops couldn’t sense him and prayed he was caught. His eyes scanned the Marine fleet as he sought out a single ship, the one with the Magma user, Akainu was on. The ship wasn’t hard to find, the man was like a neon sign, smoking up the ship as he stood on deck, but then he spotted the other two admiral ships in the harbor; Kizaru and Aokiji were both there as well.

“We have a problem’Bo.” He stated. “We have Kizaru and Aokiji here too.”

“Give me a second.” Sabo said as he pulled a mini denden snail out of his jacket. “Koala, tell me you have the sniper in sight.”

“Oh, I’ve got a better one for you.” She answered the young woman under her was unconscious. “She and her entire unit are unconscious and tied up at the moment. I currently have her weapon in hand.” She grinned. “I may not be a sniper but I want this!” She squealed.

Hack’s chuckle was heard causing Ace to raise a brow at the deeper laugh. “Sabo, I think we need to get her trained with snipers next.”

Sabo facepalmed. She’s deadly as it is. He thought. She doesn’t need a rifle too. He groaned inwardly. “I’ve got three admirals outside. Kizaru, Akainu and Aokiji.”

“They’re not pulling their punches.” Hack stated. “We might be able to handle one but not all three.”

“Ace and I are taking Akainu, he killed Ace’s crew.” Sabo stated. “I just need someone to distract the other two.”

“Aokiji.” The two Revolutionaries said in unison. “We’re already on his ship.” Hack added.

Ace snorted. “Then who will fight-“

“Lindbergh.” Sabo assured him. “Where is he?”

“Waiting for the signal.” Koala said cheekily. “He doesn’t want to get too close to Akainu.”

“He might be the only one who can hold off Kizaru for a little while.” Sabo said before ending the call with his friends before dialing Lindbergh’s number.

“Yes?” Lindbergh hissed into his denden.

“Lindbergh, I’ve got a plan.” Sabo said causing the mink’s ears to flatten on his head. It was never a good thing when Sabo started a sentence with those words.

As Edward Newgate, aka Whitebeard, came to the top of the staircase to the top deck he glanced at Akainu. “It’s been a long while, Sakazuki Akainu.”

The man across the way growled at the audacity of the old pirate. “Hand over that boy and I may consider letting you leave.” Akainu’s bartered. It was a false hope. He wasn’t planning on letting Whitebeard leave here not since they had called everyone to this place.

“You and I both know that is a lie.” Whitebeard said calling the admirals bluff. “That boy is my son, and like all my sons, I will fight for him.”

“That boy hold no blood to you.” Akainu growled. “He has Gold Roger’s blood in him. He is the final representation of the tyrant that, that man was.”

“Sorry, I don’t know that name.” Whitebeard grinned. “I do know of a Gol D. Roger, and that man was anything but a tyrant. You dogs of the government wish to eliminate all who remind you of the past, first by changing names and then trying to kill off innocent children who are nothing like their fathers.” He slammed his weapon onto the deck of his ship. “Ace is my son! I’ll fight for his right to exist!” Pulling his arms close to himself, Whitebeard was hen threw them to the sides. Cracks formed in his the air as he activated his devil fruit. The water of the harbor rose hundreds of feet into the air.

The Marines gasped in fear as the waves gained his height. Any higher and the old pirate would create a tsunami that could and would overwhelm the island, drowning all of the inhabitants.

Marco stood with his brothers waiting for their chance. “Everyone in this world knows what will happen to someone who messes with our family, yoi.” Marco clutched his arm to calm himself. “You’re not only went after Ace; but you went after Izou.” He narrowed his eyes at Akainu. “We won’t let anyone who hurts our brothers get away with it!” The whole crew cheered in agreement.

Aokiji groaned. “We brought this upon ourselves.”

“It’s too late for regrets.” Akainu’s told him with a snarling tone.

“This is going to be hideous.” Kizaru bemoaned.

On the other side of the island Luffy and his companions arrived in time to see the waters rise on the other side of the island. As they came around the cove, Luffy saw the first of the Marine ship. “Prepare the canons!” He yelled before turning towards Rayleigh, Jinbe and Crocodile. The three men walked towards the front of the ship towards the figurehead. Rayleigh pulled his sword from its sheath the Ama no Mutakumo sang for the first time in years as Rayleigh flew from the ship as his haki engaged, cutting the first Marine ship in half as those aboard with weak wills fell unconscious. The second ship to his right imploded as a sandstorm tore at the ship, draining it of moisture before the wooden boards gave way. The third ship was suddenly overrun by sea creatures as Jinbe called the local beasts to their aid.

“Whoa!” Luffy yelled, stars appearing in his eyes at that ability.

Jinbe laughed at him. “I figure the locals could handle one small ship.”

“He calls that a small ship?” Buggy asked.

“It’s bigger than ours.” Mr. 3 said with unrestrained aw.

Buggy quickly jumped to the ship railing edge and threw Rayleigh a rope so he didn’t have to swim back as they quickly passed through the barricade. He then fingered the hidden Buggy balls he had quickly made from the gunpowder he had found in the armory. The knives on his belt were ready to be used.

So as Rayleigh climbed back onboard the ship as they approached the harbor he wasn’t too surprised to see Buggy sweating nervously. “You always were a nervous sweater.” He stated.

Buggy narrowed his eyes at his former teacher. “Yeah, well I have you to thank for that.” He groused. “You left Shanks and I on that godforsaken island for three months. We barely survived!”

“You activated your Observation though.” Rayleigh jibed.

“That ability is the only reason I’m still alive.” he growled before noticing a ship heading towards them even though it was still quite a distance from them. “Damn it.” He looked towards the closest person. “You! Hand me a spyglass!”

The man nodded. “Yes sir, Captain Buggy!” The man ran off to find one and came back quickly.

Taking it from the man, Buggy looked through the glass and gasped. It wasn’t just one ship, there were dozens. “I think Whitebeard called all of his allies.” He then began looking for the jolly roger of the head ship. He suddenly let out a groan. “Strike that. It’s that bastard.” He growled. “Why’s he here?!”

Rayleigh took the spyglass from Buggy and smirked. Oh, this is going to be interesting. The jolly roger was a realistic looking skull with crossed sabres behind it, two red stripes with black outlines diagonally cross the skull's left eye socket. Shanks.

Not hearing Buggy’s complaints, Luffy engaged Gear 3 by blowing his arm up, engaging armament, he slammed his gigantic fist into the side of the next ship that was in their way. “Gomu, Gomu, Titan Canonball!” The ship was completely obliterated. A huge hole in its side allowed their ship to sail through the one he had just destroyed.

The crew’s jaws dropped. Again, just who was this Monkey D. Luffy? No human should be able to do that.

Buggy looked at the young captain as they sailed through the hole. “Kid,” he said causing Luffy to look at him calmly. “you’re scaring me.”

“Shishishi.” Luffy laughed.

From across the sea, on the Red Force, Shanks watched from his spyglass as Luffy destroyed the Marine ship with a single blow. “Seems like the kid has gotten stronger.” Beckman said with a grin as he loaded his shotgun. He was actually excited for this fight. It’d been awhile since they’d fought someone worth fighting.

“This fight could go sideways so quickly.” Shanks told him.

“Boss?” Yassop called. “I don’t think those folks are Luffy’s crew.” He hadn’t seen his son onboard.

“Maybe the rumors are true then.” Beckman stated. “Warlord Kuma really did do something to the kids crew.”

“Let’s hope not.” Shanks said causing Beckman to raise a brow. “If this is how Luffy reacts to his brother being under threat, I don’t think the world would survive if his crew is threatened or worse.”

Aokiji jumped high into the air flung out the cold compressed air at the giant waves. The air quickly turned everything to ice. Landing the admiral prepared for Whitebeard’s next move.

“Aokiji.” As Whitebeard said the man’s name he grinned. “You young squirt of Garp’s.” He then slammed his fist against an invisible wall of air which was directed at Aokiji’s ship. The water in the bay suddenly froze as the ship rose high from the attack. Once the ship was frozen, Aokiji gasped at the speed of the old pirate.

“My, my.” He said with a shocked tone. “He’s faster than we’ve been led to believe.”

Ace gasped as the remaining water in the bay suddenly turned to ice. “Can the Rogue sail through ice?” Sabo asked, half joking. Ace grinned which caused Sabo to swallow hard. “You’re kidding me.”

“Hang on brother.” Ace said with a feral grin. Ace’s body lit with a fiercely bright blue light as he activated his hottest temperature. “Combustion Blue Flame!” Unlike before where it had been a wall of blue flames creating a blast zone, these flames shot out of his hand, melted the ice sheet and hit Akainu’s ship. The flames quickly spread around the large Marine Flagship in seconds. The blue flames couldn’t be extinguished no matter what, as Aokiji quickly realized as he tried using his devil fruit on them only for the blue flames to shoot out hotly at him, burning the ice users right arm.

“Ace!” Whitebeard yelled  

“Ace!” His brothers yelled  

Ace grinned. “What? Did you really think I’d sit back and let all my brothers have all the fun?” He asked them. “Akainu! You killed my crew! As the second division officer I won’t let that slide!” He growled out as the magma user suddenly jumped from the burning ship, not caring about the men and women dying behind him. The admiral landed on an ice shelf to the side of the burning ship. “Consider that alone as an act of war between you and I.”

Akainu grinned. “I was wondering if you’d come out or hide under Whitebeard’s petticoat all day.”

Petti- Sabo’s eyes widened. “Really? He’s trying to get you to react Ace. Don’t let him-“ Sabo began only for him to notice Ace wasn’t taking the bait.

“Don’t worry ‘Bo, I’m not that big of an idiot.” Ace assured his twin.

Eh? Sabo wondered incredulously. Since when?

Luffy frowned. Something didn’t feel right. His skin itched. Fingers twitching, he placed his hand over his chest. It’s doing that thing again. He thought as he felt his heart beating to a tune of a drum. Why? He was brought out of his thoughts when someone yelled out.

“There’s a wall of ice up ahead!”

Rayleigh chuckled. “Oh? That must mean Admiral Aokiji is nearby.”

“An admiral?” Buggy asked as he tried to push down his fears.

“I knew it was a possibility.” Luffy stated. “The article stated that Admiral Akainu was hunting Ace at this island. I also know the warlords are also here doing the same, but I honestly didn’t think there’d be another admiral around.”

“Hmm.” Rayleigh hummed as he thought of their next move.

“I wish we could go faster.” He then chuckled. “If we had the Sunny we could do a Coup de Burst and fly through that damn wall.”

“Fly?” Buggy questioned as dread built up again.

“Through?”  Mr. 3 asked

“IT!!!” Everyone yelled with fear.

“Well there is a way to do that, but it means destroying the ship.” Rayleigh told him.

“Shishishi.” Luffy laughed. “Okay.”

“WHAT!?” The crew cried out in fear.

Eh? Iva thought, his mind blanking. This kid is crazier than Dragon! “Oh dear.”

Rayleigh began ordering all of the crew to find all of the explosives they could and place them at the back of the ship. “You ever do something like this before?” Luffy asked the older man.

“Once, well before Roger and I found our two cabin boys.” He chuckled. “Truthfully we calmed down quite a bit once we found those two before they came along we and the crew were the craziest shits on the sea.” He grinned. “Those were the days.”

Buggy blinked at his teachers words. “Fucking liar.” He accused him. “You were crazy shits when we were kids too! Captain was always doing something crazy or idiotic!”

“I held him back though.” Rayleigh assured him.

“BULLSHIT!” Buggy screamed. Rayleigh just smiled as Luffy burst out laughing. Buggy blinked as he turned and saw that someone had lit the tail end of an explosive. He turned to face the idiot only to be face to face with Crocodile.

“Better hang onto something Clownboy.” He jibed at the jester.

Buggy’s jaw dropped. “WHAT!?”

The explosion resounded in the bay sending the one half of the ship forward at an immense speed that it acted like a honing missile and hit the ice wall, went through it and came out the other side.

On the other side of the wall the fighting had begun. Ace and Sabo both were headed towards Akainu’s as the Marine soldiers fought the pirates. The three admirals were about to converge upon the two brothers when suddenly from the sky debris fell from a ship. A moment from all five had them looking upwards.

“Oh?” Kizaru gasped. “Is that a ship from the blockade?”

Screams suddenly filled the air above them as dozens upon dozens of spots appeared in the distance.

“I told you this wasn’t a good idea!”

“He winked!”

“Don’t blame me!”

Voices echoed above them all. Ace’s jaw dropping as he saw that yes it was a ship and no those weren’t cannonballs they were people falling! Amongst them was the all familiar laughter. “Shishishi!”