The Story Behind Luffy’s Connection with Dadan in One Piece

Among the numerous enigmas in the One Piece manga, one burning question that fans are eager to uncover is the identity of Monkey D. Luffy’s mother. While creator Eiichiro Oda has yet to disclose her identity as of this writing, many compelling fan theories have emerged. Some admirers choose to embrace the narrative established by Oda, recognizing Curly Dadan as Luffy’s guiding figure and adoptive mother, given her significant role in shaping his life.

A common point of curiosity for fans revolves around the query, “how did Luffy come to be in Dadan’s care within One Piece?” This question is particularly pertinent, considering the rather unique circumstances surrounding their relationship. The answer lies in the arrangements made by Luffy’s grandfather, Monkey D. Garp, who placed Luffy under Dadan’s guardianship as part of an agreement with her.

The Backstory of Dadan in One Piece

After Luffy suffered injuries linked to his association with the Red-Haired Pirates, Garp decided to transfer guardianship to Dadan. Initially, Garp was responsible for Luffy’s upbringing, but due to his commitments as a Vice Admiral, he often found it challenging to care for Luffy properly. This transition to Dadan’s care stemmed from a prior arrangement between Dadan and Garp, established before the unfolding of One Piece’s storyline.

Many years before the events of the series, approximately 55 years prior, Dadan created what is known as the Dadan Family, a band of mountain bandits residing on Dawn Island, the same location as Luffy’s hometown, Foosha Village. The Dadan Family engaged in multiple criminal activities, earning themselves a bounty of 7.8 million Beri from the World Government.

Garp first approached Dadan after the bounty was issued, proposing an arrangement: in exchange for raising Portgas D. Ace, the Dadan Family would be spared from arrest. To avoid imprisonment, the Dadan Family agreed. Ten years later, Garp, leveraging his authority once more, requested Dadan to also raise Luffy alongside Ace.

Dadan’s Influence on Luffy and Ace

While the question of “how did Luffy end up with Dadan in One Piece” is clarified, it is also important to understand the influence she had on both boys. Although their relationship began with some tension, Luffy and Dadan ultimately developed a strong bond characterized by genuine affection and mutual concern for each other’s well-being. Luffy openly expressed his love for Dadan before embarking on his adventure, a statement that brought tears of joy to her eyes.

Dadan played a similarly pivotal role in Ace’s life, having raised him since infancy. Far more than just a caretaker, she served as Ace’s adoptive mother. There was a certain emotional distance due to Ace’s lineage, but their connection was undeniable. Ace often expressed his feelings for Dadan, and her reaction to his death, which involved physically confronting Garp, showcased her profound love and grief.

In essence, Dadan functioned as a true maternal figure to both Luffy and Ace, earning the title of their adoptive mother. Their upbringing led Luffy and Ace to regard each other as adoptive brothers, having been nurtured in the same family environment created by Dadan and her comrades.

Conclusion

Dadan is Luffy's mother in every sense but a biological one (Image via Toei Animation) — Dadan is Luffy’s mother in every sense but a biological one (Image via Toei Animation)

The response to the inquiry, “how did Luffy end up with Dadan in One Piece,” is rooted in the agreement Garp made with Dadan. This pact allowed her to avoid serving time for the crimes the Dadan Family had committed, in exchange for raising Luffy and Ace. Through this arrangement, Dadan fostered a motherhood bond with both boys, who reciprocated her affections wholeheartedly.

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