Undo, Rewrite, Again
by staryty
Summary: After a meeting with the Warlord Kuma at Sabaody, Luffy is sent to Baltigo where he meets a brother he thought died long ago.
Rating: T
Disclaimer: I don't own One Piece. I am merely playing with the world and characters Eiichiro Oda has created.
Chapter One: Undo
Sabo was having a normal day.
Nowadays, it was unusual for him to be back in Baltigo. As the Chief of Staff of the Revolutionary Army, he had the responsibility to oversee missions here and there. Not that he was complaining though but he was overworked in the past few weeks. It was Koala who knocked some sense into him, ordering him to take a break and have a fresher for a few days. So far, he's enjoying it.
He was in his personal quarters, part of the perks of being one of the higher ups, but it was rarely used. He could count on his fingers the time that he stayed here. If his estimation was correct, it will only be the ninth time ever since he became the second-in-command. The room was a simple one, a bed on the left side and two bookshelves on the right. The walls were painted in plain gray like the rest of their base.
He was on his desk, skimming over the reports that he tried to avoid for a while now. He was bored doing paperworks but he had a responsibility now, not a child who whined over duties. He heaved a heavy sigh, reaching for his left eyelid, rubbing and seeking relief. It felt sore after hours of reading in dim light. Doing paperworks at dawn turned out to be disastrous.
A knock had resounded in his room. He jerked up, startled. Without turning his head, Sabo said. "Come in."
The door clicked open, making Sabo glanced back to know who the visitor was. It was Delvin, an officer stationed right here in the headquarters. He was a middle-aged man who had been a member long before Sabo had joined. Delvin stood in the door frame with a neutral look on his face.
"Morning, Chief," Delvin greeted in monotone.
"Good morning," Sabo greeted back, turning his seat to face the man. He crossed his arms, maintaining a neutral expression. "I'd take that it's not good news you brought for me today?"
Delvin nodded automatically. There seemed to be a hesitation as he opened his mouth to speak. "An intruder had breached the base just this morning. We've already had him in custody."
Sabo didn't hide the surprise in his face, eyes widening for a moment. That was an unusual thing to hear. Baltigo was their base of operation for a reason. It's an island hidden away from the world. It's difficult to find and Log Poses never point it out. It's a wasteland, called the land of white soil for a reason. Trees and plants never grew here and there's no towns or people other than the revolutionaries. One might wonder how someone could end up in this kind of place.
"Maybe intruder is the wrong term to use..." Delvin said reluctantly.
"Why?"
"He was sent here by Kuma. The paw prints outside are proof of that."
Sabo put a hand on his chin, deep in thought. That answered the question of how but not why. He knew Kuma wouldn't easily rattle out their base as Dragon trusted him enough.
"He doesn't seem to be a spy who works for the World Government," Delvin continued, clearing his throat. "We've identified him to be a rookie pirate. The name Straw Hat Luffy might ring a bell to you."
"The guy who raised hell in Enies Lobby?"
"That's the one."
If he remembered the report he read correctly, the Marines declared a Buster Call on the island only to fail to eradicate the Straw Hat pirates. In a way, the Revolutionary Army should be thankful to that pirate crew since they managed not only to destroy Pluton's blueprint, but also protect Nico Robin, the only known survivor of Ohara that could read the Poneglyphs. Meeting the said captain of the Straw Hat pirates ought to be intriguing.
He looked up at Delvin who was waiting for his answer. Sabo stood up while adjusting his cravat.
"I'd like to see him." Sabo said firmly.
Delvin nodded and saluted. "At once, sir."
Before visiting the captive pirate, Sabo asked Delvin to point out where the paw prints were to make sure it was Kuma. Sabo knew that it's legitimate as he's also been sent by Kuma to different places back in the past. The only question is why. He knew Kuma wouldn't do such a thing without a good reason.
The prison ward was located west of the building. It was rarely used as they never wanted their enemies to know where their base was. On the way, Sabo was greeted by most of the officers who hadn't seen him for a while. It was still early in the morning but most people were already up and drinking their coffees.
On the entrance of the prison ward, two guards were there and saluted when they saw him. Before Sabo could ask about the situation, they heard a loud familiar shrieking voice inside.
"I can't believe you!"
"Miss Koala seems to lose her temper upon our… visitor," Delvin stated with slight amusement in his tone.
Sabo let out an exasperated sigh. "It's not a good sign when she yells. She's normally the levelheaded one out of the two of us."
They made their way inside, walking through a long corridor of plain, boring gray walls. There was no other prisoner here than Straw Hat. Sabo wiped down the trailing sweat on his forehead. The humidity here was unusually higher than the other parts of the building.
Sabo finally saw Koala in the end of the corridor. She had her arms crossed over her chest, feet stomping on the ground heavily each time. She was frowning, eyes steady and staring inside the prison cell with a determined but annoyed look. She took notice of them approaching. Koala tried to erase her look but to no avail.
"Sabo, please," Koala groaned. "I don't think I have enough brain cells to deal with this airhead."
"That bad, huh?" Sabo smirked.
"Is he really even a pirate? He doesn't make any sense! He said that he's Straw Hat Luffy and asked for my name. As a courtesy, I said Koala. And do you even know what he asked me? He asked if koalas poop! Like what kind of question is—"
Sabo had to laugh after hearing that. He tried to hold his mouth with his hand but he failed miserably. Koala hit him in the head but he was too busy laughing to care. Delvin at least did a much better job hiding his merriment.
"Hello, Mr. Top Hat!" greeted by the prisoner.
Sabo still had a smirk on his lips whilst meeting eye-to-eye with him. Thick bars that's made out of sea prism stone stood between them. In the hot summer, there was a small window providing a fresher air inside. There was a bed with a mattress that was ravaged by time. There's also one pillow and stained blanket. In the middle of the room, there sat a young teen.
Sabo took in his appearance. He has thick black hair and tanned skin, obviously younger than Sabo. Below his left eye, a clear scar was showing. He was wearing a blue tank top and red shorts. His signature straw hat was hanging on his nape. He was fidgeting, feet slapping each other. One thing that stood out of him was his widened grin and mischievous chuckles.
Sabo's first impression of Straw Hat Luffy was that he's eccentric. Who would smile and laugh like that knowing that you're being held prisoner? Sabo felt curiosity getting the best out of him. He used Observation Haki and surprisingly, Straw Hat's emotion was not a fraud.
"Top hat? That's a weird nickname for me, Straw Hat Luffy." Sabo raised an eyebrow.
Straw Hat continued to chuckle, body leaning sideways. "It's because you're wearing one!"
"Ah yes, of course. You'd given me that nickname since your epithet is about your hat."
"Yup, Straw Hat suits me the same way Top Hat suits you!"
Delvin had to clear his throat at that point. "Sir, I believe this is no time for chit-chat."
"He has that effect of always changing the topic onto weird things…" Koala mumbled with a huff.
"My bad," Sabo apologized. He looked at the prisoner once again. This time with a neutral expression, the one he always used to interrogate. "Monkey D. Luffy, captain of the Straw Hat Pirates, the current user of the Gomu Gomu no mi, has a bounty of 300,000,000 beris, originally from East—"
"Yup, that sounds like me!"
"—Blue," Sabo continued. "Straw Hat, what is your purpose here? Why would a pirate like you be sent here by Kuma?"
"Kuma? The bear guy?"
The revolutionaries nodded.
"I dunno," Straw Hat quickly answered, shrugging. "Everyone just vanished in front of me after Bear Guy touched them! I'm the last and then I was flying for so long I was worried I'll land on the sea and not be able to swim! I'm glad I landed here but then I was immediately captured! I can't fight back 'cause I haven't eaten since forever. Ne, you have food, right? I'm hun—!"
"Okay, okay." Sabo halted, putting his hand up. He turned to Koala and Delvin. "Did you catch that?"
"No," replied the two.
"Great," Sabo replied dryly. Talking to this pirate turned out to be an exasperating job. It's like talking to an over enthusiastic seven-year-old.
"Chief, haven't you read the newspapers these past few days?" Delvin questioned, flabbergasted.
"No, I've been busy."
"You did a background check yet still didn't know what he did?" Koala huffed.
"Apologies for not knowing everything and engaging myself in writing reports." Sabo mouthed sarcastically.
"The Worst Generation that emerged from Sabaody is all they talked about right now. Straw Hat Luffy here is the most infamous." Koala looked at the pirate before back at Sabo, smiling reverently. "He punched a Celestial Dragon in the face."
There was a stutter on Sabo's brain as he took in the information. "He what!?" He stared at Luffy, eyes started twitching. He pointed a finger at him. "Why would you do something like that!?" He scolded him like an older brother would do.
"He deserves it! He wanted to make Camie a slave! No one gets away from hurting my friends!" Luffy defended, growling and standing up. He walked and the two men were only inches apart, divided by the bars.
Sabo eyed the pirate, knowing the look all too well. Straw Hat has that determination burning right through his eyes. Sabo never thought he'd seen a look like that coming from a pirate. But Straw Hat was proving himself to be more than just that. No one in this world would ever want to cross paths with those scums known as Celestial Dragons. Sabo could also happily punch one on the face but it's too complicated. The World Government always had their backs. The Revolutionary Army's goal is to put a stop on their tyranny and corruption. For now, Sabo had to admire Straw Hat's foolishness. He has never heard of anyone who did such a thing and lives to tell the tale.
"You're either brave or just straight out stupid, I can't decide yet," Sabo deadpanned.
"Really? Thanks!" Straw Hat cheered up upon hearing those words.
"He doesn't even realize we're dissing him." Koala had to put a hand in her face at that point, shaking her head. "But I'll be honest and say that I'm impressed by his feat."
"That still doesn't answer why Kuma would send him here," Delvin said, still deep in thought.
"A pirate who committed a heinous crime in the eyes of the World Government. It would be a bad thing if they managed to track him here…" Sabo added, clicking his tongue.
Closing his eyes, Sabo let out a sigh. The summer heat was making him feel like having a headache, not only that but add Straw Hat's statements and it's enough for him. As of far, none of their questions were answered and more are still arising. He removed his hat, tracing his blond hair with his fingers.
It's been a while since he last saw Kuma. He's on an espionage mission as one of the Seven Warlords. Sabo trusted the gentle giant whatever his reason was. Straw Hat is a pirate being hunted by the government and it's only natural for Kuma to be the one to eradicate them if it comes to that. But he saved them by sending the crew who knows where else. None of that made any sense as revolutionaries rarely work with pirates. Not only that, Kuma sent Straw Hat right exactly at their base. Even Straw Hat himself didn't know what's going on.
"S-Sabo…?"
That broken voice halted Sabo's brooding. Hearing his name coming out from Straw Hat's mouth crushed his heart. There's something painful about it, yearning and eager to be heard. Sabo once again directed his attention to the pirate, wondering why he knew about his name when they never had a proper introduction. Sabo's eyes widened, wondering what happened to Straw Hat after such a short amount of time.
Straw Hat Luffy was crying. The boy who had a contagious grin and merrily laughs earlier, was full-on having a mental breakdown.
His black eyes were bulging out from their sockets. His mouth hung open as all the muscles on his face tightened to form a frown that didn't suit his face. Overwhelmed by Sabo's appearance, he was frozen on the spot. Small pecks of tears were forming and ready to be leashed on any moment now. His soft whimpers were becoming louder as weariness washed over the young pirate. He took a step back, still not believing what was in front of him was real.
It hurts, hearing and seeing Straw Hat this way and Sabo didn't understand why.
There was a line forming between Sabo's eyebrows. He glanced over his acquaintances, looking for a likely explanation but none was offered at that moment. He opened and closed his mouth but was unable to voice out a thought. Confusion instilled over him, wondering how Straw Hat knew about his name when he hadn't had the pleasure of exchanging pleasantries.
"Where have you been all this time?!" Straw Hat yelled out. He tried reaching out with his right arm but Sabo habitually backed away. And as Straw Hat's left hand touched the bar made out of seastone, he started showing signs of nausea. He hit the floor hard as saliva started building out on his mouth. Straw Hat let out a wail. Tears streamed down his cheeks still helplessly trying to stretch out his arms but failing miserably. With every bawl Straw Hat emitted, Sabo could feel a tug deep inside his heart.
"W-We thought you died!" Straw Hat whimpered, wiping a snot with his hand.
"You recognized me?" Sabo found himself asking, cautious yet curious.
"Of course, I do! I will always know my brother!"
Sabo's eyes widened as the tugging of his heart didn't cease, it merely increased. He moistened his dry lips as spasms crossed his whole face. The color of his skin turned pale.
Brother. That's the word he used.
And hope once again sparked inside Sabo.
Years and years of wishing yet ending up disappointed. He used to be a lost soul who didn't belong anywhere. No emotions tied to things, no sense of belonging, and no self-identity. He simply lived to exist. He learned to bury all the feelings down and focused on the present where there's people who accepted him. But now, there's a ray of hope shining. A chance for him to know who he was, before being part of the Revolutionary Army, before the amnesia. And that hope was still burning inside of him, fiery and passionate.
"He's from East Blue…" Delvin muttered under his breath, knowing about Sabo's story.
"Straw Hat Luffy..." Sabo shook away all his thoughts and focused on one, still repeating the question. Straw Hat was still on the ground, mumbling gibberish words. "Do I know you?"
Straw Hat's whimpers stopped and he stared back at him. Disappointment was clear all over his face. "Y-You don't know me?"
Sabo flinched. "I d-don't. That's why I am expecting you to tell me."
"You're Sabo," Straw Hat said firmly as he sat up. "You're way smarter than Ace and me. You always like to wake up extra early to make us breakfast. You like reading anything and explaining things to me. And you enjoy hearing the birds chirping 'cause they sound like freedom to you. You always make sure I get the biggest piece of meat since Ace kept stealing 'em. You also also taught me how to read and count. Whenever we take a bath, you scrub my back gently. And at night, you like reading me stories and singing pirate shanties."
Sabo blinked rapidly, not recognizing anything he was saying.
Straw Hat was laughing again, tears still visible on his eyes. "And most of all, you called us your greatest treasure!"
There was silence. No one dared to say anything. Sabo was aware that everyone was looking at him yet his expression didn't change. He maintained a stoic appearance as he didn't know how to react.
"It's alright if you don't remember me," Straw Hat reassured, smiling affectionately. "I'm just happy to know that you're alive and you found friends!"
"Straw Hat, I—"
"Puru-puru-puru…"
Sabo groaned, grabbing his personal den den mushi out of his coat. "I have to take this quickly."
He walked away immediately, as fast as he could. Once he was fifty meters away from them, he released out the breath he was holding for so long. Everything was too confusing for him to process. He needed this time to brood and think about what Straw Hat said. The call was a blessing in disguise and he needed to answer it. Only a few people knew about his number and it ought to be important.
"Hello?"
"Sabo," It was his superior, Dragon, who answered on the other end. "Have you talked to our visitor?"
"Yes, I am in the middle of it," Sabo cleared his throat. "I did confirm that he is indeed Straw Hat Luffy but I am still trying to find an explanation on why Kuma would send him here."
"Do not bother about it. Release him."
"What?"
"He is no threat to us but I want you to accompany him at all times and make sure his needs are met."
"What?" Sabo repeated but more puzzled this time. "May I ask why?"
Dragon didn't answer right away and silence engulfed the line. "Report to my office now,"
"Yes, sir," Sabo hesitated if he needed to tell him that Straw Hat was claiming that they were related but Dragon had already ended the call.
Sabo went back to his colleagues and Straw Hat right after. They were in the middle of a conversation but this time, Koala seemed much more lively and open. Sabo and Koala both have history with Celestial Dragons. Hearing about Straw Hat's feat probably cemented the idea to Koala that Straw Hat is a kind man.
"Sabo!" Straw Hat was the first one who took notice of his return. "You're back!"
Koala immediately grabbed Sabo's arm and turned their backs away from Straw Hat. She whispered, "He's claiming that he's from Dawn Island."
"It's hard to tell if his story is legitimate but I will let it up to you, sir. Talk to him." Delvin added in a genuine tone.
Sabo sighed, "Dragon-san called. He wants him released."
"What? Why?" Koala blinked.
"That's exactly my reaction. I don't know why but he also asked for my presence. I guess we have to bring him over with us."
"This whole morning has been more or less… odd," Koala commented.
"Are you guys done talking?" Straw Hat asked boredly.
"Straw Hat," Sabo acknowledged.
"It's Luffy. I want you to call me Luffy but Lu works, too." Straw Hat— Luffy insisted on.
"Luffy," Sabo noticed how much Luffy beamed upon hearing his name. The pirate gave him a toothy grin. "You are being released but you have to stay by my side all the time."
"Really? Thank you!"
Koala revealed keys from her pockets and started scrambling to open the gates. Luffy was jumping up and down, excited to attain his freedom. Once the lock clicked, Luffy straight away went outside.
His arms extended impossibly for a normal human. It was the first time Sabo saw his Devil Fruit power being used and it was a fascinating sight. But Luffy's target turned out to be him. Without warning, Luffy flew straight at him.
"Sabo!" Luffy happily screamed.
Sabo had no choice but to catch the raven haired boy in his arms. Luffy was embracing him with all his might, not showing a sign of releasing any time soon. He could feel that he was being crushed. Sabo had been hugged before but never like this. It was warm and it felt right as if Sabo had missed this all his life. Perhaps the hope had been there all along but without the feeling of love, it was trapped.
Luffy was crying again but this time, it was happy tears. But Sabo couldn't understand if he was laughing or crying or both. Luffy looked up at him with a smile plastered on his lips. Sabo just stood there, frozen, feeling awkward about the encounter. He looked over at his colleagues but they were just smiling. Sabo reached out and stroked Luffy's back even if the move seemed fiddly.
And Sabo truly believed that Luffy's actions and words were honest.
Dragon's office was located on the top floor, east wing. Getting onto it took longer than expected and was a challenge by itself. It took Luffy a whole five minutes before letting the revolutionary go. But even when they were walking, Luffy was still clinging to Sabo as if he's a child. He kept mumbling random things but Sabo didn't have the time to focus on it for now. He didn't have the heart to call out Luffy's behavior but Koala did and it fell on deaf ears. Everyone that they passed on were staring at them for obvious reasons. The word of a pirate breaching onto their base was already circulating but seeing the said pirate hugging their Chief of Staff was unheard of. Sabo's dignity was getting smaller by the minute. Delvin had to excuse himself halfway through as he was still needed elsewhere.
Once they were in front of the door, Luffy's sobs were much quieter much to Sabo's relief.
Sabo tapped Luffy's shoulder. "Stay here for a minute."
Luffy's eyebrows furrowed and for a second, Sabo thought that he won't ever let him go. "Okay…"
"Thank you." Sabo offered a small smile.
Luffy finally let him go, allowing Sabo to flatten his wrinkled shirt using his hand. He took a look at Koala, nodding at her. She immediately knew what to do and it's to make sure Luffy won't go anywhere.
Sabo stepped inside the office, closing the wooden door behind him. The ambience of the room has always been prosaic. His boss was never the type of person who likes to spend money on frivolous things. The office was built in with a balcony, allowing fresh air to cool down his body. It was spacious, although lacking any particular appliance. Just like his own room, it only contained a desk and shelves. Most of the room had been kept clean except the desk. The papers and reports the man had been working on had been scattered around.
There in the middle seated Dragon. Both of his hands were under his chin as he stared at Sabo with his fierce dark eyes. Dragon's expression remained stoic and has always been ever since they first met. Although his eyes carried tiredness that never went away.
"Dragon-san," Sabo said.
"Sabo, what took you so long?" Dragon inquired in a neutral voice.
It took Sabo everything not to groan. "Our visitor has been difficult."
"Oh?"
"But I have everything is under con—"
A loud boom broke out suddenly making Sabo look on his back. The door was in pieces and Sabo was glad he avoided the debris by shielding his arm. He stared at the culprit with wide eyes.
"Oops," was all Luffy had to say. He redacted his stretched arm back and started laughing apologetically.
"What are you doing!?" Koala shrieked as every last patience she had was gone.
"I didn't mean to!"
"What on earth made you think that punching that door was the right thing to do!?"
"But Sabo's taking so long."
"Wha—!? He's just been gone for a minute, you idiot!"
"I take this as the difficulty you've been talking about." Dragon commented in amusement as Koala and Luffy continued their argument.
"Yes…" Sabo shook his head, defeated. "Among other things."
"Sabo, help me! Koala is being mean." Luffy sulked as he tugged Sabo's coat.
"Dragon-san, this is Monkey D. Luffy," Sabo introduced. If Dragon ordered for Luffy to be released, he knew that Luffy could be trusted to some extent. "Luffy, this is Dragon-san. He is the head of this place."
"Oh, his name is Dragon?" Luffy asked, pointing at the man.
"Yes, but don't refer to him in such an informal manner." Koala answered in irritation.
"Hi, Dad,"
"Hello, Luffy,"
"You found Sabo for me," Luffy beamed brightly. "Thank you!"
Sabo blinked, not believing his own ears. He looked at Luffy, then at Dragon, then back at Luffy again. His eyelids started twitching uncontrollably.
"Did you just call him 'Dad'!?" Sabo yelled overdramatically.
"Yup, is something wrong about it?" Luffy inquired innocently.
"But you're already claiming that you're Sabo's brother!" Koala said, voicing out his thoughts.
"Wait, does that mean—"
"Whatever it is that you're thinking, the answer is no." Dragon interrupted him, causing Sabo to close his mouth. "It is only fitting that you ask him."
"Just who are you…?" Koala asked in a mumbled tone.
Chuckling, he introduced, "I'm Monkey D. Luffy. I'm gonna be the Pirate King!"
And then it clicked on him, a memory from almost a year ago. Sabo had accompanied Dragon on a mission in East Blue where they stopped by at Loguetown. There was a young pirate who was about to get killed by another pirate on the platform where the Pirate King was executed. And just before the blade was about to hit his neck, a lightning struck the platform. Sabo was certain it was caused by Dragon. It didn't end with that, Dragon also helped the pirate to deal with a Marine Captain. The wind was harsher that day and it allowed the pirate crew to escape their Marine pursuers.
It all made sense now.
"Jiji told me about you back when we're in Water Seven," Luffy explained. "I also wanna thank you that time you saved me from Smokey."
"It is no bother." Dragon's face didn't change at all. He closed his eyes before breathing out. "Have the three of you eaten? You ought to talk about all this."
"Would you like to join us?" Sabo offered.
Dragon shook his head and Sabo knew he would disagree but it's worth the shot. "Congratulations on finding your brother, Sabo."
Sabo had to raise his eyebrows at that.
"Food!? Yeah, I'd like that. I haven't eaten since forever!" Luffy let himself be dragged by Sabo away. He turned his head one last time. "Bye, Dad. Maybe we can talk again sometime."
Sabo also glanced back, noticing that Dragon's face had changed. The man's eyes widened for a moment. Maybe, he's not that heartless when it comes to his son.
"So you're Dragon-san's son," Sabo repeated as he crossed his arms.
"Uh-huh." Luffy nodded while shoving a mouthful of rice down his throat.
"And also my brother."
"Yup!"
"But we're not blood related."
"Yeah, but who cares about blood anyway?"
"And you're saying that we have another brother whose name is Ace— who's also not blood related to us."
"He'd be happy to see you, too!"
"And we became brothers because we drank sake together."
Luffy burped before answering, "Sounds about right."
They were in the cafeteria where thankfully there's far fewer people than Sabo had expected. They got their food and the look on the cook's face as they saw Luffy grabbing as much food as he could was priceless. Sabo was not surprised but he had to apologize on the pirate's behalf. He now found a similarity between the father and son, a huge appetite. They went to the far corner, wanting seclusion but with Luffy's screaming voice, everyone knew what they were talking about.
The word that Luffy being Dragon's son has been circulating in the base as fast as the wind. Sabo wondered if Dragon was bothered that his personal matter was being talked about. His boss was the type of person who values his privacy seriously. But Sabo hasn't heard a word about his and Luffy's connection but it's probably on its way. The rumor mill will never stop once it starts.
Luffy's storytelling was incomprehensible most of the time. Deciphering it took Sabo and Koala long enough. Luffy likes to get distracted by other stories and it was Sabo's job to make sure he was on track. From his understanding, the story was that he was a runaway noble who met an orphan named Ace. They became friends and five years later they met Luffy. They became brothers and they lived with bandits before moving in at a treehouse. They spend most of their time ransacking a junkyard. They dreamed of being pirates and wanted freedom. One day, his father caught him and forced him back home. He escaped to sea but unfortunately it's the day a Celestial Dragon was visiting the place and he got shot. Luffy and Ace believed that he died since he lost his memory and didn't want to go back.
"You know, the only thing that made sense about Luffy's story is you being a noble." Koala stated before taking a bite out of an apple.
"Why?"
"You never lose the sophisticated clothing and accent." Koala commented with a smile.
"That and I hate my parents." Sabo sighed deeply as he ran his fingers through his blond hair. "I remember not wanting to go back to Dawn Island because of them…"
"So you've been a rebel ever since you're a kid? Shocker."
"Do you believe me now?" Luffy asked.
"I am still expecting myself to wake up from this fever dream." Sabo said, making Luffy pout. "But your story sounds too bizarre to be a lie. And the things you told me are consistent."
Luffy grinned, "So do you still like smelling books?"
"As weird as it sounds, he still does." Koala confirmed, chuckling.
"Traitor," Sabo playfully hissed.
There was comfortable silence once the three of them focused on eating their meals. Luffy is Dragon's son and Sabo believed that Luffy wouldn't lie to him because of the connection. Dragon was an honest man to the core. He owed Dragon his whole life but being a bond brother with his son was too much of a coincidence.
Maybe not a coincidence.
"The reason why Dragon-san was there that day. A Celestial Dragon was visiting Dawn Island and he knew how much trouble they were. He was probably there to look over you…" Sabo muttered.
Luffy shrugged nonchalantly, "Maybe."
Sabo inclined back to his seat, looking at the distance. He became serious again. "Look, Luffy. I don't want to disappoint you. The doctors have already told me many times that the chances of me recovering my memories is slim to none."
"Oh," Luffy blinked, not hiding his disappointment. "It doesn't matter. We can still create new ones if you want. And if you don't want me in your life, I can leave you alone."
Sabo winced. "What makes you think I don't want you?"
"I told you, didn't I? As long as I know that you're happy and alive, that's enough for me!"
Sabo couldn't help but smile after hearing those words. "Well, I'd like to know more about you."
"Yeah, I'd like that, too," Luffy copied his expression.
By the time they finished eating, it was nearly lunchtime meaning more revolutionaries were on their way to get their meals. Koala entrusted Sabo to keep Luffy in check. In Sabo's mind, his partner was just letting him do all the babysitting over Luffy. Koala deserved her mental health break.
"You have so many books. Kinda reminds me of Chopper's office except for all that scary medical equipment." Luffy observed upon entering Sabo's room. He ran over to the bed where he settled down, hugging his pillow.
Sabo went over to his desk, wanting to finish his earlier paperworks. "Just stay here with me, okay?"
"Mhm," Luffy hummed in agreement. "I'd like to take a nap..."
"That's good," Sabo nodded.
As much as he wanted to talk with Luffy more, he still had his other duties. Besides, Luffy needed all the rest as flying for three days straight was not an ideal place to sleep in. Sabo watched as Luffy nestled in. Satisfied once his breathing evened, he started writing reports.
He thought drowning himself from his work would be enough to distract him but his mind was still somewhere else. He dwelled over everything he learned today, focusing on the feelings he felt. He was happy, overjoyed even but it was all happening too fast. He couldn't possibly cope with the revelation in a few hours.
Luffy had been very charming and outgoing. Sabo easily got along with him, letting the awkwardness die. He didn't know how long Luffy would stay here but Sabo would like to make sure they at least spent time together. Being dubbed as Luffy's older brother was still distant to him but he'd get over to that point later on.
Sabo's hold on the pen tightened. It was frustrating, trying to remember the past. He kept on questioning why he couldn't even see glimpses of his memories no matter how hard he focused. Sabo, Luffy's brother, is a different one from Sabo, who's a revolutionary. It was given since he was only ten years old at that time. But there's no way he'd give up now that he found Luffy.
He reclined back on his seat, exhaling out loud. He rubbed his whole face, feeling exhausted. Looking at the chrono, he noticed that he's been working for an hour now. He had to convince himself that he deserved a break and so he did. He glanced back, checking on his visitor.
Luffy was gone.
Sabo jerked up, cursing under his breath. The bed was unmade and the pillow was on the floor. Was he really that distracted to the point he didn't notice Luffy sneaking out? A leash would be able to solve his problem. He calmed himself down. Using his Observation Haki, he reached out. He could sense everything but he effortlessly found Luffy's presence.
Sabo stood up, running. He opened the door, revealing a familiar place. "Hack!"
"Sabo," The fishman greeted with a nod. "Koala told me everything."
"I'd really like to talk with you but—"
"Straw Hat Luffy is on the training ground. No one is bothering him at the moment." Hack explained.
"Thanks!" Sabo uttered as he sprinted.
Some people called him out but Sabo didn't have time for it and apologized by yelling. Most of them were telling what Hack had told him. Just how long had it been since Luffy left? One moment, he was sleeping peacefully and next thing you know he was nowhere to be found.
Once Sabo was on the training ground outside, he saw the trainee children being instructed. They were in the middle of a match and Sabo made sure not to bother them. Luffy was easy to spot, sitting on top of a boulder, silently watching the fight with interested eyes. Sabo sneaked, sitting next to him.
"Oh, hi," Luffy greeted him with a smile.
"Weren't you napping? Next time, don't go around without telling me first." Sabo elucidated, straight to the point.
"I'm sorry. I was bored. You're working and I don't wanna bother you." Luffy made a face.
"You're not a bother, Luffy. You're my responsibility for now."
They remained silent, focusing on the fight ongoing. Maybe this was deemed to be a nice break. Sabo knew most of the kids as they looked up to him as an older brother. He was also an instructor whenever his schedule would allow it.
He heard Luffy chuckling, "We used to train like that, too. Although you and Ace would team up at beating me."
Sabo didn't know what to answer. He stared at Luffy whose eyes were glimmering with nostalgia. His smile was softer, making him look more innocent. He was also clasping something on his hand.
"Is that a vivre card?" Sabo asked, pointing it with his finger.
"Yeah, Ace gave it to me back in Alabasta."
"It's burning,"
"For a month now," Luffy bit his bottom lip, trying to hide his worry. "I'd like to know if Ace is fine but I'm sure my crew is waiting for me back in Sabaody. We plan to meet up in three days. Ace is strong and he won't like it when I'm worried 'bout him."
"You're leaving?" Sabo blurted out.
"That's my plan but discovering that you're here makes it harder." Luffy grinned. "Do you think Dad would let you escort me back? I'd like to introduce you to my crew if it's alright."
"Maybe, we can," Sabo said in uncertainty. Sabaody would take them a week to travel and Sabo doubted that Dragon would let him go for that long.
Luffy removed his hat and tucked the vivre card back away. He looked sideways with curious eyes. "Can I ask you about something else?"
"Ask away,"
"What's it like having ami-sia?" Luffy interrogated, tilting his head.
Sabo blinked rapidly, not expecting that question. "Amnesia?"
"Yeah, that."
Sabo didn't meet Luffy's curious eyes. He looked at the sky, thinking of a proper answer for Luffy to easily understand. He sighed slowly. "I lost myself…"
"That doesn't sound nice," Luffy frowned.
"I have forgotten my memories and they're gone— I didn't even know that they were there in the first place. I don't know what's wrong with me, it's just that nothing feels right. Back then, I just felt lost and empty…"
There were some days Sabo would intentionally wander around on any island, hoping that maybe someone would be able to recognize. Panic attacks became common and there was no one to comfort him about it. He couldn't breathe nor voice out his feelings. He wanted to go back home but he didn't even know where it was or who it was.
"But you're alright now, right?" Luffy questioned.
"I am." Sabo smiled, trying to ease his concern. He put a hand on his shoulder. "I had to thank Dragon-san for that. He gave me a second chance in life. I've met and formed connections with others but I am still willing to let you in my life."
Luffy nodded firmly, fixing his gaze as he looked up at him with new profound awe. And in the moment of a genuine conversation, Luffy's stomach started growling.
Sabo boomed in laughter. "Already? We just ate an hour ago!"
"That's an hour ago! And besides, I've missed three days worth of food! That's like fifteen meals!"
"Why are you counting five meals a day!?"
"I dunno, you tell me! You're the one who taught me how to count!"
And they continued their argument as they made their way towards the cafeteria.
Luffy was quickly on the rise, becoming the new attraction of their base. Seeing him eating food at such a fast pace caused quite the stir. Most officers who had their free time, visited him at the cafeteria just to watch him devour anything in his path. Sabo was amused and dreading, praying that their supply would be enough to feed the pirate for days to come.
"I bet you 1,000 beris he would down forty plates." Amara smirked, revealing cash from her pockets. She has red hair and was in her thirties.
"1,500 beris he'd finished fifty." Nido laughed, readying his money for the bet. He's a wolf Mink who likes drinking.
Others also started to join in for the bet, some betting in with ridiculous amounts. Sabo didn't stop the gambling going as long as it wouldn't cause trouble. Luffy was still oblivious to everyone's commotion over his eating habits. He was still going on, eating whatever his rubbery hand could grab.
Sabo groaned as he smacked a hand on his face. "Please don't encourage him. The cooks are already on their last breaths."
"But it tasted sho good, Shabo!" Luffy complimented, mouth full of food. He swallowed it down. "Still not as good as Sanji's though but it'll do!"
"Don't talk while your mouth is full." Sabo reminded, crossing his arms.
"Aww," Amara teased, wriggling her eyebrows. "Sabo-kun is such a good big brother."
"Yeah, that's our Chief for ya!" Nido laughed, putting his arms over Sabo's neck.
Sabo tried hiding his reddened face, dignity now completely gone. "Stop, this day has already been too much…"
"It's been a while since you're last here on the base. They've just missed you." Hack, who was on his left, explained sympathetically as he patted his back.
"What about we let Dragon-san and Luffy-kun do an eating contest? Which one do you think would win?" Amara pondered in amusement. "The apple doesn't fall far from the tree, after all."
Sabo sneered. "What makes you think that he would agree to doing something that absurd?"
"Phew," Luffy expressed, sighing. He put down his last plate. "I think I'm done for now."
"...Fifty-four, fifty-five, fifty-six! He finished fifty-six plates!"
"Oh yeah, I won!"
"Kid, you're something else!"
Luffy burped before laughing, "Thank you for the meal!"
Sabo smiled at the commotion happening. It's endearing to see Luffy being accepted by everyone with ease. He's energetic and easy-going, far from his father's personality. Everyone who knew Dragon might wonder how they could be related but Sabo could see glimpses of his boss on Luffy.
"Hi, Koala!" Luffy called out.
Sabo looked up seeing his partner walking towards them. Sabo immediately took notice of her dreadful appearance. Years of being with her and he certainly knew if something was wrong. She was clutching a newspaper in her hands, shaking in every step as she made her way towards their table.
"What is it?" Sabo inquired, standing up.
Koala didn't acknowledge him, instead she looked over at Luffy. "The other brother you're talking about earlier, it's Fire Fist Ace?"
Luffy nodded with a smile upon hearing his name. "Yeah, what 'bout it?"
Koala didn't reply as she handed him the newspaper. Sabo moved over next to them, wondering what was in the newspaper that made Koala react the way she did. It was unusual for news coos to release a special issue of newspapers on the same day. Whatever news it was, it's surely significant.
A man wearing an orange cowboy hat was on the front cover. Freckles were sprinkled on his cheeks, smirking slyly. It was Portgas D. Ace, a rookie pirate infamous for joining the Whitebeard Pirates two years ago. Sabo had seen him in the newspapers over the years. The thought that they have a connection never crossed his mind.
WAR IN HORIZON: WHITEBEARD'S COMMANDER TO BE EXECUTED AT MARINEFORD
And Sabo could only watch as Luffy was wallowed in by panic.
A/N: This AU has been stuck in my head for almost two years now. Inspiration finally strikes after my cousin gifted me an ASL anime figure on my eighteenth birthday. So all thanks to her!
I normally disliked putting OC's on my works but there's not many revolutionaries named. I had to resort to inserting some.
I had a blast writing amnesiac Sabo trying to make sense of whatever Luffy is saying. It's straight out chaos.
Follows, favorites and reviews are very much appreciated 3