What He Means To Us: Rayleigh
Rayleigh remembers the execution, even if he didn't witness it.
He remembers toasting his king with tears burning down his cheeks and laughter rumbling in his throat.
He remembers how the shot burned as it went down, remembers how the shot right after that didn't burn as bad as he celebrated The Age Of Dreams, The New Era.
He remembers it like it was happening in the exact moment he seen his kings crown on another's head. Remembers the day the world stood still then: "The Pirate King's been executed!" and the cheers and the moment when the shock and tears started in the crowds and in the crew.
He's not bitter.
"I'm gonna be the Pirate King!"
He smiles into his shot glass. No, he's anything but bitter.
Even if the title on anyone else but his king stings.
"Monkey D. Luffy, huh?" his smile widens.
"A name fit for a king, isn't it Roger?"
He can already hear his captains laughter agreeing with him.