They gathered information about the planet and learned that there were no doors, locks, or security systems on the planet. Everything was open and accessible to everyone. People could take whatever they wanted from stores and markets, as long as they paid the respective prices at the counter. The thieves couldn’t believe their luck. They thought they had found paradise.

They quickly made their way to the planet and started their spree. They stole everything they could, from clothes and gadgets to food and drinks. They didn’t care about the prices or the consequences. They just wanted to have fun and enjoy themselves. No one seemed to notice or care about their actions. The thieves felt like they were invisible and invincible.

They celebrated their massive heist in a luxurious hotel, where they booked the most expensive suite. They drank champagne, ate caviar, and watched holovids. They laughed and joked about how easy it was to rob the planet. They decided to leave the next day, before anyone could catch them.

“Someone is always watching” — Shinsuke Kita (Haikyuu)

The next morning, as they were packing their bags and getting ready to board their ship, they were shocked by a loud noise. They looked out of the window and saw dozens of interplanetary police ships surrounding them. They heard a voice on the speaker saying: “You are under arrest for theft, fraud, and trespassing. Surrender now or we will use force.”

The thieves were stunned. How did the police find them? How did they know what they had done? They had been so careful and discreet. They had left no traces or clues behind. They had been so smart and clever. What went wrong?

They soon found out the answer. It turned out that the planet they had robbed was the home of telepaths and mind readers. The people there could sense their thoughts and intentions, even if they didn’t say or do anything. They knew exactly what the thieves were up to, but they didn’t stop them or confront them. Instead, they contacted the interplanetary police and informed them of their crimes. They let them have their fun for a while, but then they made sure they got what they deserved.

The thieves were arrested and taken away by the police. They faced a short trial and a harsh sentence. They regretted ever coming to that planet. Thus, their grand heist of the Two ended in confinement, as they discovered that the power of a connected society surpassed physical locks. The moral echoed clearly: in realms where minds are intertwined as One, secrets were mere illusions. The lesson learned; their tale concluded as a testament to the unspoken ties that bind us all.

(Note: I remember reading this story but don’t know where and when, what you have read is just an alt version. If anyone could hunt the source, lmk ;P)

“The Universe is the All, and you are the One. All’s existence and ability to move forward is dependent on this law. The universe is might infinite, but little things like structures, planets, people and animals are what keeps it going: If you die, the world continues on, you will decompose, become nutrients for plants, herbivores eat those plants, and carnivores eat the herbivores, they die, and life starts over. The Universe always moves forward, a constant cycle. It is the one thing that binds All together… That it is alchemy itself…One is All, All is one.”

— FMA Brotherhood**

Brotherhood is fellowship, an alliance, a feeling of friendship and understanding between one another. It’s the bonding of people who come from all walks of life and have different opinions but share the same passion. We don’t always agree with every other, but we always have each other’s back. They pick us through rough times, help us with our grades in classes they are good at, be our wingmen, and support our dumb jokes at parties.

Brotherhood is not something that is forged/trained over time. One can find themselves deeply connected to a stranger than someone they have known for years. It’s not just a word and there is no one definition, It’s a way of life. It is not something bound by borders, it cannot be forced, and you don’t have to submit to it. After all, there are always people who celebrate mediocrity in the names of tradition, kinship, and of course, brotherhood. As long as we stick to our own convictions, we are bound to collide with the rest. Nakama. Hope.

***“What does teamwork really mean, is it just about protecting and rescuing each other? There are people who believe that. But to me, that just sounds like kids playing around. Everyone should do what they can with their lives on the line, and then say to the next guy: ‘I did what I could. Now it’s your turn. If you don’t finish it, I’ll come kick your a$$!’ Isn’t that how teamwork should work?”* **

— Roronoa Zoro (One Piece)

“People live their lives bound by what they see as ‘right’ and ‘true’. That is what they call ‘Reality’. However, ‘right’ and ‘true’ are nothing but vague terms. Their reality might turn out to be an illusion. Everyone is living by their own assumptions. Wouldn’t you agree?” — Uchiha Itachi (Naruto)

Turning our attention to “One Piece,” the narrative portrays a world oblivious to the actual occurrences during the void century (from 800 years back), with an organization named the world government actively obstructing any attempts at researching or acquiring insight into that enigmatic historical period. In the present scenario, the world government wields authority over all, exerting control over each nation in the guise of justice. Conversely, pirates stand on the opposing side, crafting their own regulations and embracing life following their distinct ideals. The tale commences with the execution of a pirate named Gold Roger at the hands of the Navy, the sea-military unit of the world government. He and his crew had successfully discovered the coveted treasure known as the One-Piece, rumored to be the most invaluable of all. Subsequently, we witness numerous other pirates, inspired by Gold Roger’s legacy, embarking on their own journeys in pursuit of the One-Piece, aspiring to claim all of the wealth, fame, and power that lie beyond the horizon.

“Pirates are evil? The Marines are righteous? These terms have always changed throughout the course of history! Kids who have never seen peace and kids who have never seen war have different values! Those who stand at the top determine what’s wrong and what’s right! This very place is neutral ground! Justice will prevail, you say? Of course, it will! Whoever wins this war becomes justice!” — Doflamingo (One-Piece)

Amidst this dawn of the new era of pirates, we encounter the protagonist, Monkey D. Luffy, as he sets sail to find the one-piece and become “The king of the pirates”. We see him gathering his own crew, an interesting and unique bunch who absolutely complement their captain on his voyage. Through his journey, he crosses paths with an array of fellow pirates, kingdoms, and, naturally, the formidable world government. Luffy and his companions remain a cohesive unit not due to authority but owing to their resolute dedication to their dreams, supporting each other, and confronting the realities of the world. The story depicts Luffy as someone simple, stupid, and free from the constraints of the world, as he guides his crew and, by extension, the world itself, toward liberation from the world’s dominion.

“I don’t want to conquer anything. I just think the guy with the most freedom in this whole ocean… is the Pirate King!” — Monkey D Luffy (One-Piece)

While the anime might outwardly appear rebellious to some, its core message is that even through the concealment of the truth, the fabrication of history, and the imposition of control and dominance through means like numerical strength, technology, and money, the innate will of an individual’s spirit towards freedom cannot be suppressed. The themes explored in One Piece resonate deeply with our own lives and struggles. Just as the characters in the anime strive to break free from the constraints of their world, we too have the power to challenge societal norms, seek truth, and fight against injustice. By embracing the lessons from One Piece, we can find the inspiration to overcome obstacles, stand up for what is right, and contribute to the creation of a world where compassion, knowledge, and liberty prevail. Just like the Straw Hats, we can chart our own course, navigate uncharted waters, and work towards a brighter and more equitable future for all.

“Destiny. Fate. Dreams. These unstoppable ideals are held deep in the heart of men. As long as there are people who seek freedom in this life, these things shall not vanish from the earth.” — Gold Roger (One-Piece)