Chapter Text
To say I was stressed was putting it mildly. It all started when a loud bang echoed across the room from Sabo’s head colliding with the table. Suddenly, people are bursting through the door, entering with the view of me trying but failing to lean over the table because of my (damn) cuffs and barely reaching the other side to a very unconscious Sabo. Predictably, the group of revolutionaries didn’t react well to their Chief of Staff being K.O., his face eating concrete. Koala was the first to rush into the room, rapidly joining Sabo’s side and checking for his pulse, only breathing again when she found it. Meanwhile, John and Adam run to detain me, taking both my arms to pin me down. And immediately things go further south, with me screaming bloody Mary from how tight Adam's hands were wrapped around my injured arm, hidden beneath my right sleeve. Startled by my reaction, he loosens his grip on instinct, letting me suck in a sharp hiss between gritted teeth.
AHHH, fuck! Mother trucker, that hurt like a butt-cheek on a stick! I hope he didn’t mess up my arm anymore than it already is. God, that hurt!
A momentary pause was in the air, everyone trying to figure out what the hell happened. However, (with my luck) a patch of my sleeve started to get darker in colour, indicating that my arm had started to bleed again. No one really noticed, until Adam exclaimed a hint of surprise at touching something wet on his palms. Taking his hand away from my arm, we all see how Adam’s palm is covered in a red sheen. Koala, quickly connecting the dots, starts to berate the two idiots for their manhandling.
"Guys, can you not see she’s bleeding!?”
“Uhhh, yeah, sorry, I didn’t know that would happen when I grabbed her.”
“Thank you Captain Obvious, that’s how hidden injuries work. Adam, John, can you both please release her arms? It’s not like she can really do anything to us right now.”
Koala then proceeds to point at my cuffed hands as though it needed to be explained (sadly, it probably did). The two men, heeding their commander's words, rapidly dropped their hold on me. I give both of them a pointed glare while they whistle away, pretending they weren’t guilty of acting before thinking. Koala merely sighs at their shenanigans before going to the table and unhooking my chain.
“I’ll bring her to the infirmary while you two can make yourselves useful by carrying Sabo behind us. He’s too heavy for me to lift, anyhow.”
“Yes, Madame!”
Taking her orders to heart, John hoists Sabo’s arms while Adam carries his legs. They lift the man while letting his head dangle, completely oblivious to how that was where he had been injured.
Should I point it out or... Nah, if Sabo survived Garp's fist of love, in the long run a bit more brain damage won’t do much.
Without delay, we all depart for the infirmary, with Koala gently nudging me while Sabo was being dropped left and right on the way. Koala, clearly used to this type of disaster, ignored the group behind us. Meanwhile, I’m trying not to laugh at the sight of Sabo’s ass sticking in the air while his face was kissing the floor.
This is hilarious! I wish my hands weren’t cuffed because these would be great pictures for blackmail.
By the time we reached a door with a sign above indicating the symbol of the red cross, Sabo was sporting a couple of new bumps, while I’m collapsing in laughter, barely able to stop myself from jostling my arm. Thankfully, Koala caught me before I face-planted and then moved my shaking form through the door, dropping me to the first available bed that she saw. Once settled down, I started to look around the place, first noticing the left wall that had cabinets filled to the brim with medical supplies, while the right had chairs for friends or family to wait in. The second thing I noticed were the numerous beds lined up in two neat rows, with each end of the beds facing the opposite walls. Luckily they were all unoccupied, except for the one on my left side with poor Sabo, who was tossed face first into the covers by John and Adam.
At least it’s not hard cement this time. I don’t think his skull could handle another crack.
After depositing him, they quickly waved through the doorway before Koala could berate them for Sabo’s handling. Instead, she gives off a huff before turning to search through the medicine cabinet, and while digging through the items, she half-heartedly points over her shoulder to me, ordering something that left me reeling.
“Strip”
“...what?”
Was I right all along!? Is she coming for my virgin ass? Koala, you’re supposed to ask me out on a date first, I thought you had better manners than this!
It was only once she had finished collecting her supplies that Koala looked back in my direction. She gave me a confused expression before clarity slammed into her at what she said. Immediately Koala tries to cover her face, which now sports a fierce blush (probably matching mine), and starts to stutter out her denials.
“Wait… It’s Not… IT’S NOT LIKE THAT! Get your mind out of the gutter! I just need to see how bad your injuries are.”
“...And nothing else.”
“YES! There is absolutely nothing that I want from you (ouch!). I only need you to remove your hoodie since that's where your bleeding from, you dolt.”
“...okay, if you say so.”
Like, I’m glad she doesn’t want to get frisky with me, but that was a hard shot to my ego.
Koala heavily sighs before coming up to me with fresh bandages in hand and other medicines. As she began to prep her supplies, I busy myself with shimmering out of my top, struggling to use only my left arm while still being cuffed with my right arm not helping, by aching up a storm at each tug. Once done, I look down at my makeshift tourniquet, which was heavily stained and loosening around the edges, making it practically useless. The bandage untangled when I grabbed it, not even needing to put force to pull it apart. I grimaced at the sight hidden underneath, it wasn’t pretty. For what I found, was my right arm caked in new blood but also now had pus mixed in, hinting to it being infected.
This is really not good, I’ve only seen stuff like this on medical shows like Grey’s Anatomy or MD House. And I’m pretty sure there isn’t supposed to be a yellow colour, but my medical expertise goes as far as saving a kid from chocking on a grape, so who knows.
My attention was only brought back to the present when I hear Koala making a hissing noise at the sight of my injury.
“...That doesn’t look great. I’ll need to stitch that up, it’s too deep for simple bandaging. However, we at least carry disinfectant, so it should get better in a few days with proper care.”
“Wait, you’re patching me up? Not to sound unthankful, but shouldn’t there be, I don’t know a doctor or a nurse to do this?”
“I guess you haven’t realized, with being stuck underground and all. But it’s about 2 am right now, everybody who isn’t on patrol is asleep. Well, everybody but us, Sabo had just arrived and decided he couldn’t wait till morning like a normal person... I swear that blockhead is always leaving me to deal with his cleanup!”
Confirming Koala’s claim, I realized we had lighting from not only the candles placed here and there but also the moonlight from the night sky. Its gentle beams came from a window tucked into the back wall that I had somehow missed when first entering.
Huh, it’s been that long? My perception of time must really be messed up for me to not notice. Also, I feel a bit guilty about keeping them awake. Sure, it was Sabo who forced them up, but he was most likely very stressed by my info and didn’t want to wait any longer than necessary.
Debating my thoughts, I simply wave off Koala's comment. Pretending to seem nonchalant, though I did feel slightly bad since it was ass-o-clock in the morning.
"Ahh, it’s fine, I’m partially to blame for the circumstances. Still, are you sure you’re okay with doing this?”
“Not like I have much of a choice, someone needs to fix that arm of yours. And either way, don’t worry about it. I have lots of practice healing up our Chief of Staff right there.”
“Hahaha, I could see that. He does look like he would be... Um, accident-prone?”
“I wouldn’t say accident-prone, more like a reckless idiot. But I guess it’s all the same at the end of the day, when he becomes the number one patient.”
I feel you girl! I wanted to say the same thing, but it seemed a bit rude. Although when it comes to Sabo's more daring stunts, it seems we’re thinking on the same wavelength. Since I’m pretty sure he doesn’t have self-preservation as a skill set.
The atmosphere now feeling lighter than ever helped settle down my nerves as Koala started her work. She cleaned up the deep carve on my arm, removing any excess gunk before grabbing a needle and thread. She then proceeded to begin stitching me up with steady hands that talk of previous work (most likely Sabo’s fault). Whenever Koala pierced my skin, I needed to bite my bottom lip, trapping any whimpers from escaping. Because even when I knew it had to be done, it didn’t mean it hurt any less to be impaled over and over like a pin cushion. By the end of it, I had tears welling in my eyes, sucking in a few deep breaths through my nose. However, the job was done, and once Koala cleaned everything up, she wrapped sterile gauze over it. After it’s tied securely, she looks into my eyes and offers her honest opinion of her work.
“Just to let you know, this'll probably scar over. I tried my best, but the damage already done to your skin wasn’t really reparable. I merely had enough to close the gap, or you would have needed an actual doctor to do a skin graph.”
"Yeah, I thought that might happen... still sucks though...”
Every time I look at it, I think of Captain Chain’s death. He tried so hard to save me, even sacrificing his arm and then his life. Meanwhile, I only bear a reminder of how I failed to do the same.
Contempt came to me as I looked down at my right arm. Staring hotly as if I could melt away the burning disappointment of what had happened. Koala, who noticed how frustrated I was, grabbed my attention from how I glared at my bandages by proceeding to gently take my hand. Once my eyes set on hers, she began speaking about a well-known saying that people used even back home.
“...You know some people call scars badges of honour, proof of what we have survived... I want you to know there’s no shame in simply making it out alive, no matter how many painful traces it may leave behind.”
“...*sniff*...”
When she finished, Koala simply held on to my hands, unbothered by the wet drops decorating them. My tears started to pour down without remorse (most likely ugly crying) as I sniffled out from my nose getting stuffy. Koala merely lifts her sleeves, drying my cheeks that now sported trails of salty tears. It was at that moment, I realized it was the first time someone assured me that it was fine not to always come out completely okay.
Since finding myself here, I’ve been getting into one accident after the next. I haven’t even realized lately how heavy my shoulders have been feeling... This burden of knowing about the secrets of this world but not having the power to simply survive in it... To be told that although my strength barely let's me survive, I shouldn’t be ashamed of getting the chance to breathe another day. It’s nice... But I know I can’t continue to be this way. Sure, it’s not a sin to live, but leading others to suffer from my own weakness is...
“...*sniff*...Thanks… You’re pretty good at this, Koala.”
“I suppose it comes with being a commander.”
"No, I’m certain that being kind and understanding takes more than just leading people.”
“Mmmm… I guess.”
An easy silence passed between us as I tried to gather myself back together while Koala patiently waited. When it seemed I wouldn’t suddenly start bawling again, Koala gently asked a question I knew was coming one way or another.
“So, what really happened? I haven’t jumped to conclusions like the other two idiots. Since I knew you were still cuffed and Sabo is more than likely stronger than you. So... for him to wind up unconscious is quite strange, isn’t it?”
Okay, not much of a vote of confidence there. But yeah, I wouldn’t blame Koala for thinking I was weaker than him. That man can break bones with his bare hands while I can barely lift a toddler.
“Well… I guess you could say that his memories hit him harder than he thought.”
“His memories? What does that mean?”
"Like we talked about before, I wanted to help Sabo with his amnesia. However, my questions weren’t getting through to him. So, I may have mentioned another way, it was actually quite the simple one. However, I was worried about the possibility of giving a heavy shock to his system. In fact, I even warned him against it, but he wouldn’t back down. So, I told him every single piece of memory he had forgotten, and when the puzzle was finally filled... it led to this.”
At the same time, we both looked towards Sabo’s sleeping form, his face switching from peaceful for one moment to troubled in the next. It was as though his memories couldn’t decide between being nostalgic or traumatic. I could only merely gaze, unsure what to do as Sabo sweats lightly from what was most likely a bad memory. Whereas Koala easily swipes her hand through his blonde hair, gently moving a few strands away from his furrowed eyebrows. Afterwards, she glances at me, her voice coming out almost like a whisper, scared to break the quiet mood.
“He’ll be okay, right? …I’m not usually this worried since he always bounces back, but that always when he's getting physically hurt, not mentally. This is an entirely new ballpark, and I don’t want to be blindsided.”
Her sincere concern pierced my heart. This was the first time her walls completely crumbled, leaving behind her commander persona for her friend stuck on bed rest. It almost felt like I was peeking behind a forbidden side of Koala, a real moment of something fragile showing itself. Knowing that this should be handled with care, I tell her the honest truth of the matter, not wanting to lie and hurt her further.
"I...from what I know, he should be out for about three days to a week. However, it may be longer. Honestly, I can’t be sure.”
“Ah, I see, I don’t know what I expected-”
“But there is one thing I can promise, he’ll wake up, and with his memories wholly intact.”
Is that a bold thing for me to say? Sure, but I know that she should at least have this piece of comfort. It would’d be right of me to know that everything turns out okay and stay silent while Koala is forced to wait, unsure and worried.
Even with my abrupt answer, Koala nods her head in relief. Slowly her face relaxes, not even noticing how tense it had previously been. In return, I give her a sunny smile, glad that I was able to wipe away her unease. When a few beats passed with the both of us basking in the light atmosphere, a yawn soon slipped through my lips. It seemed that the late hours were finally catching up, it also probably didn’t help that my wound had caused me some blood loss, leaving my body tired and weak. Soon after, the sound of Koala’s own yawn in response leaves her huffing out a laugh before standing up. Without thinking, I swiftly grabbed her hand, not wanting to kick her out of the infirmary in the middle of the night.
“You don’t need to leave because I’m tired. I’m sure you want to stay near Sabo, and there’s plenty of beds to rest upon.”
Koala pauses for a second, surprised by my quick action before laughing, a quiet but cheerful noise. Listening to Koala, I was left completely perplexed by her reactions, which just make her laugh louder than before.
“Pfft…hahaha. Don’t worry you dolt, I plan to stick around. I only need to put out the candles. Besides, Sabo’s known for sneaking out of this place, and even though he’s knocked out, I wouldn’t put it past him to try in his sleep.”
“...Oh”
“Pfft… Yeah, oh. Just stay there and get comfortable. It won’t take me long. Afterwards, I’ll settle myself down by the bed on Sabo's left. Then he really won’t be able to escape with us blocking both sides.”
I laugh, nodding in agreement while Koala goes ahead, blowing out one candle after the next. Once the infirmary was basked in darkness. I could hear Koala making her way to her own bed and with the lights off, my eyes were slipping into a lulled heaviness. Although before I was completely asleep, I gave my nightly farewell, my half-conscious brain not registering that what I said out loud was normally reserved for my own family.
“...Goodnight...don't let the bed bugs bite...”
“...Goodnight... Wait... I... still don't know your name.”
“...Ellie...”
“Ellie…sorry”
“No...no, you’re good... it’s not like I really told you either.”
“...”
Koala didn’t respond even as I fell into a deep slumber. My light snores could be heard in the background as she quietly got up and went to my sleeping form. Now in front of me, Koala got out of her pocket a ring filled with keys and slotted one of them inside the lock of my cuffs, moving to free me without disturbing my rest. Once done, Koala silently returned to bed and before succumbing to sleep herself, whispered a heartfelt truth.
“...sorry for so quickly deciding you were the enemy... you’re actually quite nice.”
Although no one verbally answered Koala, since her only company were the two sleeping figures. In the calm silence, she heard a peaceful sigh leaving my body resembling a wordless thanks to the trust that she had given me. And in return, a small smile graced her lips before falling into oblivion.
__________________________
The next morning, I slowly opened my eyes, feeling completely rested since I first became a “prisoner”. Smacking my lips, I began to stretch my left arm while the other scratched my torso, not noticing the missing clanking noise that my cuffs would make from the still sleepy haze I was in. Not to mention, my half-awake senses somehow missed the looming form that had most definitely not been there last night. It wasn’t until a yawn came out of me that my blurry eyes registered this new addition. The item confounded me since I had no idea where it came from and my uncaffeinated mind could not puzzle together this mystery. It was only when noticing how the inanimate object was apparently making an up-and-down motion, eerily resembling a breathing cycle, that my brain started to piece together the situation. Leaning closer to look at the strange sight, the object turned to me, and once face-to-face, I was certain my heart had flat lined. For at that moment the thing blinked calmly and made it very clear that it was alive. All at once, a scream was ripped out of my lungs, gathering attention from Koala who stumbles out of her own bed, waking up from my personal alarm.
What??? WHAT IS THAT!? Oh god, what do they say in these situations: incapacitate and run?... Dammit, I wish I had my pepper spray! Maybe I could kick it in the groins and escape?... No, that wouldn’t work, it’s built like a freaking boulder. Those stupid stranger-danger ads didn’t say I would need to defend myself from people the same size of a fucking grizzly bear!!!
Because that’s exactly what stood in front of me, a figure easily reaching over 8 feet tall, and to add (to the whole serial killer vibes), it was hiding behind a dark green cloak. My stress hiked up further when I realized I hadn’t heard this large person sneaking inside while I was asleep. I could only blanch on the spot from thinking what they could have done to hurt me while in such a vulnerable position.
Like seriously, I need to stop waking up in horrible situations. How can my luck be this bad!? At this point I have woken up to a new universe, as a castaway on a random island, stuck inside a beast’s belly, a prisoner to a revolutionary group, and now to the literal personification of Michael Myers.
Koala who had finally gotten up from the floor, went into a defensive position, checking her surroundings for what could have startled me so severely. When she came upon the stranger, she merely sighed in exhaustion before loosening her clenched muscles. Afterwards, Koala proceeded to stand in a perfect 90° stance and happily announce the man’s name. Meanwhile, I’m getting back to my bearings, my heart still fluttering like a hummingbird, and trying to understand why Koala was so calm when a menacing stranger was standing not even 2 feet in front of us.
“Dragon, sir!”
Who!?
“Koala.”
At the introduction, the intruder lifts the hood of his cloak, revealing himself to be one Monkey D. Dragon. The man gives a small nod of recognition to Koala, and immediately after he turns his piercing eyes onto me. Faced with his recognizable red tattoo on the left side and a narrowed gaze (that didn’t even resemble Luffy's), I tried to brave it out as if I wasn't shitting bricks from the man standing before me. Honestly, I could barely comprehend how I was apparently in the presence of the world's most wanted man and the known figurehead of the Revolutionary Army.
Jeezus, is he tall! I’m pretty sure he’s breaking the world record here... God, he makes me feel like I reverted back into a 5-year-old! His entire stance just screams, “I’m dangerous and powerful! Fear me!!!”. Seriously, how do people handle this guy without passing out… For christ sake, Koala’s even genuinely smiling!
Watching how Koala brightened in the man’s presence was a new experience. Especially when the woman turned to her boss and happily began to ask questions. Whereas Dragon only maintained an unreadable face while his voice held a casual professionalism. Meantime, I’m staring between the two, unable to squeak inside the conversion, much too anxious at possibly gathering more attention from the imposing man.
“When did you arrive, sir? I thought you’re mission was supposed too last longer.”
“There was a change of plans, but we have gained a new trading route.”
“That’s wonderful to hear! Congrats, sir.”
The man merely grunted in agreement before lifting a questioning brow at me. Though his face stayed impassive, it seemed his curiosity had won since he finally pointed out the elephant in the room.
“...Koala”
“Yes sir?”
“Who is this?”
“...”
“I’m Ellie.” / “A new recruit.”
We both spoke up at the same time, leaving me and Koala to snap our heads towards each other in surprise. Koala gives me a look (Like, what was I supposed to do, not answer the man!?) before continuing on, acting as if I hadn’t talked over her.
"She's... a person of interest who has declared to offer a wealth of information for the Revolutionary Army.”
“Is that so?”
Dragon then looks me up and down, not in a judgmental way (I think?) but as if he could determine my potential as a future enlistee. Weighing the pros and cons, I stand straight as a bow and lift my chin to stare directly into his eyes (which is hard because of his damn height), trying to tip the scale in my favour. Koala merely smiles, clearly pleased with Dragon's interest in doing his stressful inspection of my worth.
Thanks Koala for the great introduction! But no matter what, an on-the-spot interview would leave anyone unprepared and a bit terrified. Especially if they’re deciding where your immediate future is heading. Hopefully, the man believes that the pen can be mightier than the sword. Because I sure as shit won’t be able to wield one with my noodle arms!
Minutes later Dragon, who’s finished with whatever he saw, then proceeded to tilt his head in the direction of the entryway of the infirmary and started to walk away. Hot on his tail, I follow closely behind him, recognizing a silent command when I see it. However, before I was completely out of the room, I nervously waved to Koala, who smiled and sent a thumbs up in return. The next few moments were spent quietly walking down Baltigo’s hallways (you probably couldn’t see me behind his shadow) until we stopped by an office. Dragon went inside and sat down behind a desk with a massive window taking over the back wall. Following the man's lead, I sit in the chair facing him. This scene was oddly familiar to what had happened with Smoker, only the stakes were much higher this time. For I wasn’t a lost child trying to get home but a person who was going to leverage a position from one of the most powerful men on this planet.
…No pressure.
“Now then I’ll be evaluating the information you have to offer.”
“Oh uh, yes sir! Um… Well, do you know the structure of the World Government?”
“Yes.”
I merely cringed at his unimpressed stare. I knew I had started on a low ball, but maybe it was a bit too much of a simple question for the leader of a secret organisation.
Good job, dumbass! Of course a man like him would know such general information, even your local grandma could tell you the basics. Get your head in the game! Be precise and hit where it hurts... Well, don’t actually... Just make sure that you pique his interest... So, I guess... using the secret cult leader as a bargaining chip, it is!
“About that… Does Imu ring any bells for you, Dragon sir?”
“Imu?”
“Yes sir. They're a massive unknown player on the board. But most importantly, Imu is and has been the supreme ruler of the World Government since it’s creation. These past centuries, it has been a propagated lie that the highest in the chain of commands were the Five Elders. Not even those of high standing in the marines know the actual truth. Although it isn’t surprising, since the government has previously erased history, such is the case for the Void Century and the Ancient Kingdom.”
I wasn’t surprised to see Dragon taking a second to digest this rather immense revelation, since I went with one of the biggest piece secrets across the One Piece universe. When it seemed he had reached a conclusion, the man responded by asking very precise questions about this new knowledge.
“...If what you’re saying is the truth, then our enemy has a more focalized center to it’s structure than we had thought. However, to hold such power for centuries is unheard of, especially knowing the greed of the Celestial Dragon. How could such a person stay in their position while standing above those who consider themselves the peak of humanity, the so-called "Gods" of this world?”
“Well sir, Imu is... um, I don't actually know what they are for certain. However, I can confirm they belong to the times of old, with the power to manipulate the very lives of the Five Elders. Enforcing their will, Imu can prolong a lifespan for centuries or extinguish it instantly on mere whims. Thus, an invisible chain is held tightly in their grasp, keeping a constant axe over the Five Elders heads. Moreover, Imu can further their reach (and their resemblance to Satan) with the ability to send people through portals that hold complex runes."
“Mmmm, that’s quite the unique powers. Ones that allow such diverse tactics and military advantages. However, this is all hearsay at the moment, what proof do you have to confirm such claims?”
Ah crap, I knew it would come to this... What can I use to convince him?...I could mention his own little secrets. But he’s probably going to think I mean to threaten him like Koala did… mmmm… Yep, there’s nothing else coming to mind... Screw it, if it worked out the first time, it’ll work again.
“...Dragon, sir. I don’t have any physical evidence to give to you, but if you need proof, then I can tell you of future and past events few or none know of.”
“Are you alleging to be a prophet of sort? Forgive me, but I’ll need more-”
“Monkey D. Dragon I know exactly who you are and what your son will achieve. Those with the Will of D have always brought a storm in this world, but I can assure you that Luffy will be the one creating the biggest waves. And regardless of my personal faith in him, his fate, like that of every member of the clan of D, including you, will be force to confront the world's oppressor as is declared by being the "Natural Enemy of God"."
“...”
A beat of silence passed as I finished my spiel. Staying tensed in my seat, as I worried at possibly offending the man with my impromptu expose of his secret son, who would be immediately targeted by the World Government if his existence was found.
Okay, I may have gone a bit far, but at least he knows that I have impossible information that even those closest to him haven’t been informed on. Thus, confirming that I know of past events since the only other who knew of his connection was Garp, and he sure as hell isn’t going to be talking on the matter. Whereas, mentioning the Will of D and what it poses to the world, tells Dragon that I know what the future holds for him and those who have it’s legacy written in their name.
Seconds tick by, with Dragon not moving an inch, a quiet blanketing his office entirely. As my worries turned into anxiety, the silence grew and soon became unbearably stifling. It wasn’t until the cloudless skies that illuminated the office from the back wall had darkened that sound resumed, with the winds going from a breeze to a howling gust of such strength it shook the glass windows. Albeit as intense the weather was outside, it couldn’t compare to Dragon’s stony frown. This was the first expression I have seen since meeting the man, and I wouldn’t say it was a particularly good thing.
“...What information you have of me should not be used lightly as a threat. For even if you knew of every future possibility, I promise that you wouldn’t escape my claws undamaged.”
Sweat coated my nape as Dragon stood, the height difference making him seem further imposing (which was not necessary!). I could barely suck in a wheeze as a cold shiver ran through my body. I knew that at that moment, if I didn’t say something, I was digging my grave here and now.
ABORT, THIS WAS A MISTAKE!!! Oh god, he’s going to kill me where I sit. Shit, I knew he might be a bit threatened, but not to this extent. He’s going to smite me if I don’t say something RIGHT NOW!
“WAIT! It’s not what you think! Crap, I went about this the wrong way. I swear I only want to work for you, so threatening you would be counterproductive. Plus, I’m not delusional enough to think I could make it a step out of this office if you didn’t permit it. I’m so sorry for using such private information, but I thought it was the quickest way for you to believe me.”
I bow my head deeply in penance. Not once looking up until the winds returned to a calm breeze and I could hear the man hum (hopefully in forgiveness). After I felt my heartbeat slow down, I went back to sitting normally, missing the perplexed glance Dragon threw my way until he mentioned a semi-cryptic line.
“...strange. Did you not feel any pressure?”
Huh? Pressure, what is he talking about? Sure, I probably felt my soul leave my body for a moment there, but that’s more me than anything physical.
“Uhh, no sir. I didn’t feel any pressure. Was I supposed too?”
“...Interesting, I thought you would have been long unconscious by now.”
“...what?”
What is he talking about??? I know he's not going to murder me anymore, and yes the whole menacing storm is gone. But this is so 180°, like who gives a vague but concerning situation of being passed out in the most casual way? That's just wild!
Dragon deciding not to clear anything up instead goes back to his default face, which meant I couldn’t tell what he was thinking at all. Instead, left feeling extremely confused and more than a bit unsettled by the chain of events, I look at him with a clueless face (or a WTF face). Meanwhile, Dragon simply moves on in his questioning, not bothered by my reaction.
"Your... demonstration of the knowledge you possess has me concluded that to a certain extent you could be seen under the role of a “prophet”.”
“A what?”
Is Dragon religious??? Because it’s either he’s saying I’m the messenger of a deity... Which would suck because God is a dick... Or maybe he means it’s like the witches who tell your desires but don’t mention the strings attached? That type of prophet is cool and all, but I don’t have any magic to curse people to their fate and make things interesting.
“A "prophet” is someone who holds improbable information that they communicate to others. Depending on what is said, it could lead to a massive shift in reality by changing or manipulating the situation with the use of the information given. However, even if that's not the case, I would like to personally know how you came to pass such knowledge.”
“Uhhhh…Well, about that...”
Should I just go ahead and tell him everything? Like sure, being a prophet would be a pretty awesome position? But I already almost committed suicide by not being completely honest to the guy, and he’s supposed to become my boss... So, I probably should tell him about the whole inter-dimensional travel. Also, that his world is only a story of fiction in mine... Yeah, that won’t be an issue.
“Um, Dragon sir, I’m less of a prophet and more along the lines... of an alien being that came from a different dimension.”
“...”
“...”
“...”
Yeah, that was definitely the wrong way to go about it. It’s not like I’m E.T. here, I’m probably more along the lines of Rick and Morty, a satire parody of people who know way too much and are more than likely to fuck up things along the way.
“Don’t get me wrong! I’m still human and the whole shebang, it’s just that I don’t come from this world... And the information I carry isn’t exactly the future but the plot line that follows your universe.”
“...a plot line, similar to those from novels?”
“Yes sir, funnily enough your son is the main character, and I don’t know if this is a hint for what the real treasure is, but the title is known as “One Piece”. This could merely be a coincidence, but I personally find it suspicious. That a person like me who read the book series has now come to the world that carries the actual treasure of the same name.”
For a minute, Dragon says nothing to agree or disagree with my statement. He simply stares at me as though my physical presence would somehow scream out that I don’t originally come from the same universe. Of course, Dragon doesn't find anything abnormal and instead responds back in the most bland manner known to man.
“Mmmm, I see.”
I don’t think you do! Dammit, what can I do to not seem absolutely bat-shit crazy? ...mmmmm…C’mon big brain moment…WAIT, I KNOW! How could I forget? I’m literally carrying photographic evidence on me!
Without thinking, I immediately shove my hand down the top of my hoodie, ransacking my bra before finally taking out my phone. The man (bless his soul) merely moves his eyes away, giving the illusion of privacy until I slam my phone in front of him. He looks at the new object with interest, though I couldn’t have told you the difference.
“...What is this?”
“This is a cellphone! In my world, it’s the equivalent of a Denden mushi, though it has many more functions (sorry Dusk, your still perfect in my eyes). However, what matters most right now is that it can carry an entire album of photos, which I have used to keep memories throughout my life.”
Instantly, I opened my phone, going inside the photo app, and started to swipe through the many birthdays, nights out, meet-ups with friends and family, or just random moments that I took and showed them at Dragon. The man in return, kept his eyes focused on every photo, taking in the different faces and strange environments that surrounded me.
“Dragon sir, I know what I’m saying sounds far-fetched even for this world's standards. However, as you can see, the clothes, technology, and even the buildings I lived in on a daily basis don’t exist here.”
“...Yes, I truly haven’t seen anything like this across the many Blues or the Grandline.”
Perfect, it seems he’s actually starting to believe my circumstances. Now that I’ve got him listening... it’s time to set up bait and keep him on my good side.
“Sir, my world underwent a technological evolution. These inventions you see are used in everything from normal everyday activity to transportation, medical feats, entertainment, communication, and even in military development.”
“...Mmmm. How far would you consider the progress of these machines to be?”
Ooooh, he seems very interested! Now, let’s use my customer smile that every retail worker is forced to learn...thanks McDonald's...and reel him in!
“Well, what you’re holding in your hand is one of the largest recent advancements. This device, which includes a built-in system called the internet, can store massive amounts of information on a worldwide scale. In simpler terms, imagine a single library that contains every available source of knowledge known to man. Not only are they all accessible, but they can easily be found by saying a desired word, phrase, or subject matter you wish to explore. Instantly every single book that may correspond to your search will materialize in an organised stack based on importance and relativity... That is what a cellphone is capable of, and compared to government-sanctioned technology, it’s on the simpler side.”
In a moment of pure astonishment, I see both of Dragon’s eyebrows slightly raise at the end of my explanation. The man pauses, imagining how grand-scale such a technological wonder could reach. Especially if the revolutionaries took charge, leading the general population to easy access for education, and with fact-checking, they could keep the propaganda sent by the World Government at bay.
“...How were they successfully able to engineer this machine? The complexities of reaching an audience of this size would render most of it null by the weight or simply fail to make a range for such a wide land mass…”
A smile brightens my face listening to Dragon configuring different problems and solutions for this idea. It was fascinating to see how passionate this normally indifferent man could become. Albeit before he went any further, I coughed into my hand, getting him to snap out of his brainstorming session.
I got him hook, line, and sinker! Now to completely solidify his desire for recruitment, I can demonstrate what being an artistic nerd can do, and it’s more than just accurate anatomical fan-art!
“Well sir, their success comes from the cell phone being not the only component, there’s also satellites, telephone poles, and even grids. However, (not to toot my own horn) I could draw you the detailed schematics for these needed items. This should help in understanding the concepts of every piece, and of course I can always explain further for those who are interested.”
“That could work... However, aren’t you concerned that I might try to manipulate or take advantage of what you've freely given to me? Between your claims of future knowledge and possessing a mental vault that may spark an industrial revolution. There are many people who would harm you in diverse ways, from abduction, imprisonment, and torture to acquire even a small portion of what you have voluntarily given to me in these last few minutes. I wonder, What will you do if you're threatened with death? Will you uphold your values or bend and break? Likewise, how far are you able to go in protecting yourself or others at that? Can you say confidently you can defend what you consider precious?”
This line of questioning was told in an air of indifference, as if Dragon were merely questioning a philosophy and not the real possibilities that may happen to me if word ever got out. In response, my smile melts off, and a steely gaze replaces my earlier joy. While my eyes faced him head-on, I could feel a fire lit between them. I didn’t know if this was a test or merely him asking to see how I would react. But I knew that I couldn’t let it stand, that simply because I’m a young teen, I presented myself as someone who didn’t understand the dangers I now lived with.
Of course, I know I could be hurt, injured, captured, or killed. I’m not just a teenager but also a woman, and living in a patriarchy forced me to learn these facts from a young age. Although that doesn’t mean I’ll take it like a lying dog. No, I will bite, and no matter who’s blood I taste, I won’t stop until I come out on top.
Mind made up I stand and look directly at the man in front of me, refusing to be looked down upon when telling him off. Dragon merely stares back, unbothered by the change of stance. Now, on a more even height, I slam both my hands on his desk, ready to rip him a new one!
“Since the beginning, I've never been naive, I know what people would do to gain a sliver of power. My world isn’t different than yours in how they put an emphasis on different social classes. However, what set us apart is that we succeeded in our desires for freedom. To change our fate, we made sure the right heads rolled, and those forced underneath the heel of the powerful raised the guillotine themselves. As someone who follows this ideology, I find it hard to believe that you and the people who fight for their own liberation would use my knowledge in such callous ways... But if it came too, then the saying “the enemy of my enemy is my friend” won’t be only on paper but a reality that I will achieve with swift vengeance.”
Once finished with my passionate rant, all you could hear was my harsh breathing across the room. Seconds went by with me standing my ground, daring Dragon to give an unimpressed eyebrow or even a scoff at what others would have considered a "tantrum”. Though what I hadn’t expected was for Dragon to begin laughing, and not a mere huff of amusement but a full-blown cackle. My utter confusion at his reaction must have painted an amusing picture since he kept at it for a few minutes longer. By the time he settled down and I sat back in my chair, I could only look at the man like he’d grown a second head.
What the hell is happening... I definitely threatened him this time. I even spat on his efforts, comparing them to failures to what my world has achieved. Shouldn’t he want to I don't know...smack me or throw me out the window?
“Hahahaha…It’s been a while since someone tried to correct me in such an audacious way. Although it’s not often that I blatantly question a person's morals either. As such, I can’t fault you for your fierce backlash against me.”
And now he's apologizing??? I don't get it, I thought I screwed up with how blatant I was in disrespecting him...
A bit dazed by the exchange, I simply nodded at his explanation, unsure how to vocalize my mixed feelings on the matter. Later, Dragon had fully returned to his neutral self and gazed at me with purpose.
“Ellie (oh god, he said my name), I understand your frustration of having someone overlook your experience and what it may have taken to reach this point. However, this time I only mean with the best of interests. Do you have a way to fight those who wish to cause you harm?”
If you count a small container of hairspray and a lighter to make a portable flamethrower, then yes. But that’s probably not what he’s asking, and my two weeks of babysitting a kid who tried karate moves on me won’t be much help.
“Uhhhh, I know to go for the groins, eyes, nose, neck, or ears when defending myself. I can’t say I have any martial arts training and guns, or any weapon really, weren’t legal in Canada, the country I came from.”
“Mmm, I see. Since we're beginning from scratch, I’ll mandate that you'll learn the basics of defensive and offensive attack positions. Meanwhile, you will have training in a specified weapon. Did you have any you wished to learn?”
What is happening!? Is he actually planning out a training regime? I thought I bombed this whole thing? Am I a revolutionary now???
“Sir, are you accepting me?”
Dragon, just give me a pointed look and nod. Instantly, I give him a blinding million-watt smile, my stress sliding off my shoulders from passing the however-ass-long interview. I could barely suppress myself from instead jumping all over the place and squealing like I just won the lottery. Unfazed by my excitement, Dragon simply continues and repeats his question, although a bit more clip this time.
“Yes, now weapon?”
“I always wanted to shoot something…mmmm”
Well, I always wanted too shoot something, and let’s be honest, I could never be a melee girl. That’s just asking for death, like I could bludgeon a normal guy, no issues there! But in this world, people have powers that change physics itself, and I can’t really fight an element without probably dying. Soooo, long range it is... Ooooh I could be like a sniper! Maybe do some spy actions, I already have the whole “I know everything about you” and now I’m part of a secret organisation. The only thing missing is the training montage for my obvious character development.
Cackling at knowing which weapon I wanted and the chaos I could produce, I excitedly smiled with a hint of impishness and answered Dragon.
“Dragon sir, I want to learn how to use a rifle!”