Imagine a universe where Monkey D. Luffy, instead of forming the iconic Straw Hat Pirates, had become a member of the Red-Haired Pirates, led by the charismatic Shanks. This change in Luffy’s journey would certainly have sent ripples of impact across the vast world of One Piece, altering destinies and reshaping power in the world of pirates.
The Fate of the Future Straw Hats
Luffy, known for his charisma and ability to influence those around him, played a crucial role in the formation and destiny of the members of the Straw Hat Pirates. If he had teamed up with Shanks, the trajectory of characters like Nami, Zoro, and others would have been dramatically different. Without Luffy’s intervention, Nami might still be under Arlong’s thumb, and Zoro might have succumbed to his dark fate at the hands of Helmeppo. Without Luffy’s influence, each of these characters could have faced a bleak or even tragic future.
Power Dynamics at Sea
The Straw Hat Pirates, under the leadership of Luffy, were instrumental in destabilizing the balance of power in the world of One Piece. They challenged and defeated numerous Warlords and even Emperors. If Luffy had been with the Red-Haired Pirates, many of these iconic confrontations would never have occurred. Warlords like Crocodile, Moria, and Doflamingo could have maintained their power longer, and Blackbeard’s rise could have played out differently. Kaido and Big Mom would still be in contention for the title of Pirate King, without the decisive intervention of Luffy and his crew.
Shanks and Luffy: A Powerful Duo
Luffy, if he had joined the Red-Haired Pirates, would have learned and grown under Shanks’ tutelage. This doesn’t mean that Luffy would be less powerful; on the contrary, he could have developed his abilities differently, perhaps even reaching the Awakening of his abilities earlier. With Luffy by his side, Shanks could have become the strongest candidate to become the Pirate King. The alliance between a young prodigy like Luffy and an experienced pirate like Shanks would be a force to be reckoned with.
Luffy: A Commander Under the Red Banner
Within the Red-Haired Pirates, Luffy could have found his own path, perhaps even forming and leading his own subdivision within the crew, similar to Ace’s role in the Whitebeard Pirates. This would have allowed Luffy to develop his leadership and tactical skills, while still operating under Shanks’ influence and guidance.
