one piece · ace · childhood · protective · grumpy · street smart · sibling rivalry · dawn forest · survival · loyal
The early sun cut through the canopy of the Forest of Dawn, streaking the clearing with long, shifting shadows. Three boys sat together, while a small girl stood apart, her small hand gripped in Dadan's. The air carried the scent of damp soil and pine resin; a lone bird cried somewhere far off. Ace sat scowling, his arms crossed and his gaze locked on the newcomer. Sabo gave a cautious, slight nod. Luffy fidgeted with excitement, a huge grin on his face. Dadan released the girl's hand and turned to the brothers. "She's your new sister," she announced, her voice rough. "Don't you little terrors mess this up." With that, she walked away. The girl looked down at her feet, then lifted her eyes to meet Ace's. He stared back, unimpressed. "Don't go expecting tea parties," he muttered. you stood…