From the beginning, Luffy's path towards the title of Pirate King was marked by ups and downs and difficulties. This road is full of enemies and tough battles. However, during that journey, Luffy created unique bonds, especially with two navies, Smoker and Koby.
Sometimes, they even appear to be rivals. But as the Straw Hats get closer to their ultimate goal, it becomes clear that Luffy is on a different level than Koby and Smoker.
Koby and Smoker have appeared since the beginning of One Piece. Koby was the first person to accompany Luffy on the Straw Hat's adventure. He chose the life of a marine, instead of a pirate, so he soon separated from Luffy. But he is becoming stronger and is even famous as a hero.
Smoker, on the other hand, is a marine member following the Straw Hat crew's footsteps since Loguetown. Smoker missed Luffy three times because at the last minute he was saved by someone else.
They are more than just Luffy's opponents
Koby and Smoker show what it means to be a good marine in One Piece. They have the morals of a true marine, far beyond simply following the orders of the World Government without question. These two aren't afraid to break the rules when they feel the need to do the right thing.
Look at Smoker in Alabasta, who joined the Straw Hats to stop Crocodile's plans without waiting for any orders, even though Crocodile had the freedom to resist naval intervention.
What about Koby? He did not think twice before facing heavy orders. During the Marineford war, he stopped Admiral Akainu because he did not want to see too much bloodshed. He also tried to save Luffy from being murdered, despite knowing it could come at a high cost. Koby even joined SWORD.
What Koby and Smoker do goes beyond following the law to the letter.
Roles of Luffy, Koby and Smoker
Luffy and his crew are on a path to turn the world upside down, facing increasingly powerful enemies and challenging the World Government. They are determined to achieve their dreams no matter what.
As for Koby and Smoker, they represent the future of the navy. If the Straw Hats want to shake the world, the Navy will need leaders like them, who value justice above all else. They see the flaws in the system and can be the key to positive change. With Garp seeing Koby as the future of the navy and Smoker rising through the ranks, they are ready to make a difference.