If Luffy were a Marine instead of a pirate, the story of One Piece would change drastically, but it could still be compelling with a unique narrative twist.
Luffy as a Marine: Key Points
- Training and Strength : Raised by his grandfather Garp, a legendary Marine, Luffy would undergo intense training from a young age, becoming a very capable fighter by his late teens, possibly stronger than in the original story. His childhood would be similar, including eating the Gomu Gomu no Mi, but his motivation would shift from becoming Pirate King to becoming a great Marine
- Personality and Motivation : Luffy's core values of freedom and justice would remain, but expressed differently. Instead of seeking freedom as a pirate, he would aim to reform the Marines from within, fighting corruption and injustice. He would likely reject blind obedience to the World Government's corrupt Celestial Dragons and instead uphold true justice, much like his grandfather Garp, who is known for his unorthodox approach
- Rank and Influence : Luffy would likely rise to a high rank such as Vice Admiral but refuse promotion to Admiral to avoid being controlled by the Celestial Dragons. This position would give him enough freedom to act according to his own moral compass while still within the Marines
- Revolution Within the Marines : Luffy would work to dismantle the corrupt order of the Marines, overthrowing the influence of the Celestial Dragons and the World Government's oppressive elements. He would lead a revolution to install a new, just order, possibly with a team similar to his Straw Hat crew, but within the Navy
- Relationship with Shanks and the Straw Hat : As a Marine, Luffy would face challenges regarding his iconic straw hat, which Shanks gave him as a symbol of becoming Pirate King. Shanks might warn Luffy that the hat belongs to the future Pirate King and ask him to give it up or leave the Marines. This could create an internal conflict for Luffy between his Marine duties and his personal ideals
- Impact on the World : Instead of traveling as a pirate, Luffy would sail the seas as a Marine, saving people and liberating islands, but from the perspective of a reformer within the system rather than an outlaw. His story would focus on changing the world order from the inside rather than overthrowing it as a pirate
In summary, Marine Luffy would be a powerful, freedom-valuing figure who challenges and reforms the Marines' corrupt system, possibly leading a revolution to create a just new world order, while maintaining his adventurous spirit and strong sense of justice
