One Piece- Memories After All

Chapter 8 - The Long Awaited Reunion

The sight left everyone speechless. Both marines and pirates alike were filled with a newfound respect for the rookie captain. His sheer determination and deep affection for his crew astonished even the admirals. They were more than just a captain and subordinates; they shared a bond that was stronger than most. They were Nakamas.

The warlords, Marine leaders, revolutionaries, and pirates alike couldn't help but feel a twinge of envy. What if they had someone like this young captain on their side? But alas, it was not to be.

Shanks felt a swell of pride for the young anchor who had grown into a remarkable captain. The Straw Hats were filled with devotion, and the brothers were astonished and proud. Their little brother had left the nest and was soaring through the skies. He embodied everything a captain should be. They were amazed, perhaps even a little envious, of his crew, the objects of his protective adoration.

Meanwhile, Whitebeard was quietly contemplating recruiting Luffy into his own crew.

The commotion in the hall broke their musings, as a mix of shuffling, hurried steps, and shattering sounds filled the air. People became alert, some drawing closer to their allies while others huddled with their crews.

The hall's door burst open, and a blur rushed in, shouting, "Where is Ace?"

Lo and behold

It was Monkey D. Luffy, his eyes frantic as he searched for his brother. He had seen Ace die, felt his heart sink, and his world crumble. The sun had seemed to disappear, taking all warmth with it, leaving him cold.

Then everything went black. He had fallen asleep for a long time, waking briefly only to be put back to sleep by an old man. The man didn't seem bad, so why had he made Luffy sleep? Luffy needed to check on his brother. He thought everything was a dream—the prison, the war, the death. He needed to confirm.

When he looked around, he found himself in a comfortable bed. Despite his fatigue, he rushed out to look for Ace. Someone tried to stop him, asking him to wait, but he didn't care.

"Ace!" he screamed, breaking the trance of shock that had fallen over everyone at the sight of the Straw Hat captain. They were so stunned they couldn't move, caught in a sea of emotions. His shout snapped them out of it, and they all sprinted towards him—his brothers and his crew.

Garp stood by with a smile, waiting for his turn. Shanks didn't know what to do—should he embrace the little anchor or hide to keep his promise? Benn tapped his feet, waiting for his captain to decide so he could go and meet Luffy.

Ace was the first to reach him. Whispering Luffy’s name, he tentatively raised his hand to touch him, afraid that he would disappear and the moment would break. Luffy was as astonished as Ace, his eyes wide with shock. He gasped, “Ace!” and flung his arms around Ace.

“Ace, I had a strange dream. There was a war, and you were tied up, and I saved you. But then you were stupid like before. You were really stupid, and you died. Ace, you promised me you wouldn’t die. Ace is my most important person, even when he is stupid and meanie,” Luffy said, embracing Ace.

Ace returned the hug. “It was not a dream. You saved me, but I was so stupid and didn’t let you save me. I’m sorry little brother. I'm really stupid,” he said slowly. He never wanted to let Luffy go. He would keep his kid safe now. No more risks, no more pride. He kept swaying Luffy in his arms, tears dripping from his silver eyes, mumbling apologies to Luffy.

“Oi, brat, let me see my grandson too. Stop hogging him!” Garp shouted as he marched towards the group.

The reverie broke between the brothers, and Luffy observed his surroundings. His crew was standing near him, making a semicircle around the D brothers. Luffy was surprised again. His eyes teared up, and he laughed. In a heartbeat, he took his rubbery arms. “Guys,” and they chanted, “Luffy,” tearing up.