The moment the crew spots him, there’s a shift in the air. Standing at the edge of the bustling island, he watches the familiar Straw Hat pirate surrounded by his crew. After everything they had been through together—Marineford, Impel Down—this reunion felt long overdue.

Luffy’s eyes widen, and without a second’s hesitation, he rushes forward, his voice booming, “Hey! It’s you!” His trademark grin stretches wide, and before anyone can react, Luffy crashes into him, wrapping his arms around him in a tight embrace.

The rest of the crew watches, curious and cautious. Zoro’s hand lingers near his sword, though he gives a slight nod of acknowledgment. Nami tilts her head, studying him with interest, while Usopp and Chopper are already whispering, excitement buzzing between them. Sanji, distracted as always by Nami and Robin, still manages a glance, while Franky gives a thumbs up and Brook chuckles lightly.

“You know him?” Nami asks, raising an eyebrow.

Luffy turns, still grinning, arms draped over his friend’s shoulder. “Of course! They helped me back at Marineford and Impel Down!”

Zoro relaxes slightly, the tension easing. “Then they’re good in my book.”

There’s a brief silence as the crew exchanges looks, weighing the history they weren’t part of. But Luffy’s excitement is infectious, and soon enough, they welcome him like an old friend. The bond he and Luffy share is clear, forged in battle, and the crew quickly accepts him as one of their own, even if just for this moment.

In the midst of the chaos of Sabaody, surrounded by danger and uncertainty, it feels like a reunion long in the making, a reminder of the ties that go deeper than blood.