"Ace, are you sure you're ready to set sail?" Mu Le asked softly, looking at Ace, who had already grown into a young man. Behind her stood Luffy and Sabo, both of whom had grown quite a bit as well.
"Yes, Teacher. I've learned a lot during my years in the Holy Church, and I understand what I want now!" Ace gazed resolutely at his teacher. She still looked as unassuming as ever, with an approachable smile on her lips, as though time had left no trace on her face.
"Yes! Time really does fly! That mischievous little rascal from back then is now a young man about to chase his dreams!" Mu Le smiled faintly, her eyes filled with kindness and warmth.
"It's all thanks to your guidance, Teacher. Otherwise, I'd still be that ignorant boy who hated his own origins and couldn't let go of the past," Ace said with heartfelt gratitude. He had learned a great deal in the Holy Church over the years-not only ways to train his body and build his strength, but also how to conduct himself and deal with others. His understanding of the world had become much clearer, too.
The more he learned, the more he understood how laughable his old way of thinking had been. He was Ace, and he lived for his own dreams. He wasn't merely an extension of someone else, nor did he need to shoulder responsibilities that weren't his.
"Go, Ace! I hope you find the answers and the place you belong out at sea. Every fledgling must one day spread its wings and soar freely through the sky!" Mu Le gazed up into the sky, her eyes deep and full of anticipation.
"Teacher!" Ace's eyes suddenly grew moist. Over the years, the teacher before him had