Naruto turned around and faced Luffy.
"Luffy, bringing someone back to life comes with a price."
Luffy's expression tightened.
"However, I like you, and I can help you revive Ace."
"Before that, though, I want to ask you a question."
Luffy straightened up and looked at Naruto.
"What are your thoughts on Ace's death?"
Luffy fell silent at those words.
He stood before Naruto, head lowered, the shadow of his straw hat concealing half his face.
Then he raised his head, his expression resolute.
"I was too naive before."
"I didn't have a true grasp of my own strength."
"When my crewmates fell into danger, I couldn't do a thing."
"That's why I need to train twice as hard and become stronger."
"Only then can I face the dangers to come."
Naruto looked at Luffy and nodded.
"Good, having that kind of resolve is a good thing."
"However, if I want to revive Ace, I need to make some preparations."
"During this time, let me see your resolve."
"If you're just all talk, then we can forget about reviving Ace."
"Really?"
"Thank you so much, Naruto!"
Hearing this, Luffy's face instantly broke into a brilliant smile, though tears still hung on his cheeks.
Naruto glanced at Luo, the corner of his mouth curving slightly upward.
"Before all that, though, I'll give you a little surprise."
A thought flickered through his mind.
The ground between the two began to tremble.
Earth churned, gravel rolled away, and a Coffin slowly rose from beneath the ground.
Everyone's gazes were drawn to that Coffin.
Then the Coffin lid slowly opened.
A person stood inside.
Black hair, freckles on his face.
"A... Ace?"
Luffy's eyes widened.
He lunged forward immediately, hugging Ace inside the Coffin as tears poured out like a breached dam.
His shoulders