Trafalgar Law Ask Blog

tap

tap

[ The sound of footsteps echoes closer, bouncing off damp walls of the dim, empty hall of cells located far below deck. It breaks the oppressive silence, almost deafening in it’t sound, no matter how light the step is. It’s different than the slogging step of the guards, or the panicked pace waitstaff that bring the food down to him. It’s brisk. Confident. ]

[ Soon, almost too soon, the steps become more than an echo, closing the gap between the entrance and Laws cell, stopping in front of it and simply…standing. Silently observing from the shadowy place beyond the bars, eyes picking apart everything before them. Law can feel the brush of Observation over him several times, multiple unsuccessful though empathic attempts at gleaning information that isn’t already obvious. Of course Law is afraid, of course he is angry and defiantly withdrawn. Anyone would be. ]

[ Despite the Haki, Law can’t tell who it is until he finally speaks. The voice is annoyingly familiar, though much more commanding than anything Law has heard from him before, much more befitting of a Marine Captain negotiating with a former Warlord. ]

Trafalgar.

I’m more than familiar with how you must be feeling. I can likely get you out of this position, if you prove to be trustworthy. An alliance of circumstance, like before, though..this is no Rocky Port. There are only two lives to save. Yours, and my Commanders.

I won’t threaten you into compliance. You’re an intelligent man, a good one, I know you wouldn’t let anyone die from a..potentially incurable disease.

Right?

[Upon glancing over Law, a quick look was enough to tell Koby that he was not doing well. Uneaten food sat on an abandoned tray in front of him, his dark circles prominent and his facial hair unkept. Quite frankly, the other man looked like shit.]

[Law slowly looks up from where he's slumped against the cell wall, his eyes widening slightly in recognition and surprise. ...Koby? Why would he be here?]

[A snarky remark sat at the tip of his tongue. A marine begging a pirate for help? Someone who historically hates Law? Claiming he can save Law? What a fucking joke.]

[But something made Law pause. He had never seen Koby wear this expression- exhaustion, anxiety, concern- it was all easy to read in his desperate face.]

[Also... Incurable disease? What... Who is he talking about? It sparks something inside of him- his past he buried long ago. His own struggles with a supposedly incurable disease.]

[...But still. Law can't put his guard down. Now of all times, he can't afford it]

Law scoffs.

... I'm surprised that I'm the one you're coming to for help, of all people. You really trust me? A pirate? To save your... friend? colleague? Or... whoever it is.

...he pauses for a second, taking a deep breath and sighing lowly.

[ Koby squats down to be at Laws level. He holds up a ring with keys to the cell and the cuffs, maintaining strong eye contact with him as he speaks. ]

...Hanahaki. I've read about it before, long ago. Thought it was nothing more than a legend from sappy romance stories. Someone... actually managed to contract it?

[A glimmer of intrigue shines in his eyes. Law has always had an idle fascination for odd cases like this one- cases that only someone with an ability like his could solve.]

Something like that should be easy enough to fix... how far along are they? If you're coming to me I'm assuming you're getting pretty desperate... so it's probably at its end stage of progression, am I right? At this point, the damage to their respiratory system is more worrying than the flowers themselves. It could be quite... an interesting surgery.

[Law concludes, not breaking eye contact with the other man].

...Uncuff me. I'll take a look.

It’s only been a few days, and it’s…I don’t think it’s about romance. I overheard her talking with Admiral Ryokugyu and it seems like it’s entirely about her father, the Fleet Admiral..I don’t think you care much about that though. You just want a look inside, right?

Ah! Here, hold out your wrists.

[Rationally, he knows that Koby means no harm... he's not really like that. Law would never admit it out loud but among the Marines, Koby is... one of the not-as-horrible ones. He has a personality far different from Law's own, currently evident in his effort to smile, of all things, in the face of this... shitshow. It almost even made Law loosen up a little bit. Almost.]

[But the constant, suffocating aura of the ship, of Imu, has been keeping him on edge... like a prey animal that knows it's being hunted.]

[Law awkwardly held out his hands, letting Koby hold his wrist and fuss with the little locking mechanism, until he heard the telltale *click!* as the cuffs unlocked, dropping to the floor.]

[The relief was immediate, and a sigh left Law's mouth that he didn't even know he was holding in.]

...thank you, Koby-ya.

...

She’ll need medical attention either way, but..in the mean time, you look like you could use a shower, and something to eat. I know these cuffs make you woozy, I can’t imagine it’s easy to eat in that state…

[ Koby stands and offers his hand out to Law ]

She shouldn't let her pride get the best of her- talking with those blockhead Marines probably won't get her far. The sooner I take a look the better, but... in the end it's her choice, out of my hands.

[He looked warily at the extended hand, and at the earnest expression on the other's face. Before hesitantly reaching out and accepting the other's hand with a dusty blush from embarrassment, trying and failing to mask the quiver in his legs as he stood.]

...don't let this get to your head, Koby. Just because we're helping each other out doesn't mean we're friends or anything.

[Then, with a smaller voice,]

[A retort was on the tip of his tongue, before a pang of hunger jolted him back to reality.]

...okay. Fine.

A shower... would be good. Lead me to your room, then.

[ Koby walks with him slowly down the hallway, giving him as much time as he needs. He knows how sore his back was from sitting in a cell, and he wishes he hadn’t had to run with shooting pain in his spine. ]

[ The walk is long, painfully silent, and occasionally highlighted with the gentle brush of Koby’s Observation Haki. It’s not too dissimilar from walking with Luffy in that way, a wordless sort of ‘are you okay?’. It’s suddenly not so hard to understand why him and Luffy had been so quiet around each other on the Sunny, why they never seemed to need to tell each other anything. Each brush felt like a small bid to have Law reciprocate, to let Koby in even a little..]

[Koby clears his throat and nods at the door he stops next to.]

...I can go in first. If you... would maybe want to stay out here.

[He slowly opens the door, looking back towards Koby with an unreadable expression.]

[ He pauses, watching the way Law falters where he stands, frowning. He fidgets nervously for a moment, swallowing nothing before he speaks. ]

….I know you’ll say no, but I have to at least offer..

W-Wh- What?? H-help??

[he continued stammering awkwardly for a second as he processed that Koby just offered to fucking help him shower, until Law poorly tried to mask his fluster with a scowl]

N-no, I'll be fine on my own. I'm not... weak.

[Law was fully aware of how he currently was... actually quite weak. But he can only let himself be so vulnerable in front of another person. He has far passed that threshold for today, even if Koby truly was just trying to be helpful].

[ Koby nods, though he’s looking at the floor. Laws reaction to the question has him flustered in return. He hadn’t meant it like that, he was offering out of genuinely concern for Laws wellbeing, but he probably should have realized out it would sound. At least he can’t be any more embarrassing— ]

I..uh..I only have one towel! So, you can..just..use..mine.

[ His face only gets more and more red for each word that comes out of his mouth. He’s never felt more like of an idiot. He needs to just shut up, still staring at the floorboards like they’re the most interesting thing he’s ever laid eyes on. He does not. ]

Really you can just use anything of mine! It’s— Make yourself comfortable…we have to……

[ He sighs, relinquishing himself to the situation at hand. ]

[But honestly, at this point, Law was just tired. So tired. The snarky remark about going back and sleeping on the cell floor never quite left his mouth, as the idea of sleeping in a real bed sounded... too good to pass up. Even if that meant... actually, he didn't want to think about that now.]

[So, Law closed his dumb gaping mouth and resigned himself to his fate.]

[The shower gave Law a much needed sense of relief, even if he had to intermittently sit down to rest his quivering legs. The combination of days wearing seastone, plus his mild starvation, really did a number on his stamina. He internally cursed himself for being so weak in front of Koby. It was fucking embarrassing.]

[Now that Law was no longer covered in grime, he awkwardly grabbed Koby's towel to dry off and change back into his own clothes. Asking for a change of clothes would be... too much. Not that Koby would have anything that fits his lanky stature, anyways.]

[Once he was dressed, he walked back out of the room, internally breathing a sigh of relief to see that Koby was, in fact, still diligently standing guard outside.]

Ah— y-yes! I..I had them bring something for you as soon as you went in the shower, y’know, that way in case it was poisoned it would’ve set in by now. Though..I don’t’ know why they’d do anything to the food, she clearly just wants company…SORRY—

I’m talking too much.

Food’s on the desk…help yourself. I really need to check on Hibari…Uh..sorry, I’ll shut up after this, but…you should stay in here. I don’t know how ‘allowed’ I am to be doing all this. Sorry. Sorry….

[ He puts his hands up in surrender rather than defense, then hurries out of the room, leaving Law suddenly very alone.

On the desk is a plate with four onigiri, with a clearly labelled note on the serving tray:

He remembered... my favorite food?

WHAT

@trafalgar-official

tap

tap

[ The sound of footsteps echoes closer, bouncing off damp walls of the dim, empty hall of cells located far below deck. It breaks the oppressive silence, almost deafening in it’t sound, no matter how light the step is. It’s different than the slogging step of the guards, or the panicked pace waitstaff that bring the food down to him. It’s brisk. Confident. ]

[ Soon, almost too soon, the steps become more than an echo, closing the gap between the entrance and Laws cell, stopping in front of it and simply…standing. Silently observing from the shadowy place beyond the bars, eyes picking apart everything before them. Law can feel the brush of Observation over him several times, multiple unsuccessful though empathic attempts at gleaning information that isn’t already obvious. Of course Law is afraid, of course he is angry and defiantly withdrawn. Anyone would be. ]

[ Despite the Haki, Law can’t tell who it is until he finally speaks. The voice is annoyingly familiar, though much more commanding than anything Law has heard from him before, much more befitting of a Marine Captain negotiating with a former Warlord. ]

Trafalgar.

I’m more than familiar with how you must be feeling. I can likely get you out of this position, if you prove to be trustworthy. An alliance of circumstance, like before, though..this is no Rocky Port. There are only two lives to save. Yours, and my Commanders.

I won’t threaten you into compliance. You’re an intelligent man, a good one, I know you wouldn’t let anyone die from a..potentially incurable disease.

Right?

[Upon glancing over Law, a quick look was enough to tell Koby that he was not doing well. Uneaten food sat on an abandoned tray in front of him, his dark circles prominent and his facial hair unkept. Quite frankly, the other man looked like shit.]

[Law slowly looks up from where he's slumped against the cell wall, his eyes widening slightly in recognition and surprise. ...Koby? Why would he be here?]

[A snarky remark sat at the tip of his tongue. A marine begging a pirate for help? Someone who historically hates Law? Claiming he can save Law? What a fucking joke.]

[But something made Law pause. He had never seen Koby wear this expression- exhaustion, anxiety, concern- it was all easy to read in his desperate face.]

[Also... Incurable disease? What... Who is he talking about? It sparks something inside of him- his past he buried long ago. His own struggles with a supposedly incurable disease.]

[...But still. Law can't put his guard down. Now of all times, he can't afford it]

Law scoffs.

... I'm surprised that I'm the one you're coming to for help, of all people. You really trust me? A pirate? To save your... friend? colleague? Or... whoever it is.

...he pauses for a second, taking a deep breath and sighing lowly.

[ Koby squats down to be at Laws level. He holds up a ring with keys to the cell and the cuffs, maintaining strong eye contact with him as he speaks. ]

...Hanahaki. I've read about it before, long ago. Thought it was nothing more than a legend from sappy romance stories. Someone... actually managed to contract it?

[A glimmer of intrigue shines in his eyes. Law has always had an idle fascination for odd cases like this one- cases that only someone with an ability like his could solve.]

Something like that should be easy enough to fix... how far along are they? If you're coming to me I'm assuming you're getting pretty desperate... so it's probably at its end stage of progression, am I right? At this point, the damage to their respiratory system is more worrying than the flowers themselves. It could be quite... an interesting surgery.

[Law concludes, not breaking eye contact with the other man].

...Uncuff me. I'll take a look.

It’s only been a few days, and it’s…I don’t think it’s about romance. I overheard her talking with Admiral Ryokugyu and it seems like it’s entirely about her father, the Fleet Admiral..I don’t think you care much about that though. You just want a look inside, right?

Ah! Here, hold out your wrists.

[Rationally, he knows that Koby means no harm... he's not really like that. Law would never admit it out loud but among the Marines, Koby is... one of the not-as-horrible ones. He has a personality far different from Law's own, currently evident in his effort to smile, of all things, in the face of this... shitshow. It almost even made Law loosen up a little bit. Almost.]

[But the constant, suffocating aura of the ship, of Imu, has been keeping him on edge... like a prey animal that knows it's being hunted.]

[Law awkwardly held out his hands, letting Koby hold his wrist and fuss with the little locking mechanism, until he heard the telltale *click!* as the cuffs unlocked, dropping to the floor.]

[The relief was immediate, and a sigh left Law's mouth that he didn't even know he was holding in.]

...thank you, Koby-ya.

...

She’ll need medical attention either way, but..in the mean time, you look like you could use a shower, and something to eat. I know these cuffs make you woozy, I can’t imagine it’s easy to eat in that state…

[ Koby stands and offers his hand out to Law ]

She shouldn't let her pride get the best of her- talking with those blockhead Marines probably won't get her far. The sooner I take a look the better, but... in the end it's her choice, out of my hands.

[He looked warily at the extended hand, and at the earnest expression on the other's face. Before hesitantly reaching out and accepting the other's hand with a dusty blush from embarrassment, trying and failing to mask the quiver in his legs as he stood.]

...don't let this get to your head, Koby. Just because we're helping each other out doesn't mean we're friends or anything.

[Then, with a smaller voice,]

[A retort was on the tip of his tongue, before a pang of hunger jolted him back to reality.]

...okay. Fine.

A shower... would be good. Lead me to your room, then.

[ Koby walks with him slowly down the hallway, giving him as much time as he needs. He knows how sore his back was from sitting in a cell, and he wishes he hadn’t had to run with shooting pain in his spine. ]

[ The walk is long, painfully silent, and occasionally highlighted with the gentle brush of Koby’s Observation Haki. It’s not too dissimilar from walking with Luffy in that way, a wordless sort of ‘are you okay?’. It’s suddenly not so hard to understand why him and Luffy had been so quiet around each other on the Sunny, why they never seemed to need to tell each other anything. Each brush felt like a small bid to have Law reciprocate, to let Koby in even a little..]

[Koby clears his throat and nods at the door he stops next to.]

...I can go in first. If you... would maybe want to stay out here.

[He slowly opens the door, looking back towards Koby with an unreadable expression.]

[ He pauses, watching the way Law falters where he stands, frowning. He fidgets nervously for a moment, swallowing nothing before he speaks. ]

….I know you’ll say no, but I have to at least offer..

W-Wh- What?? H-help??

[he continued stammering awkwardly for a second as he processed that Koby just offered to fucking help him shower, until Law poorly tried to mask his fluster with a scowl]

N-no, I'll be fine on my own. I'm not... weak.

[Law was fully aware of how he currently was... actually quite weak. But he can only let himself be so vulnerable in front of another person. He has far passed that threshold for today, even if Koby truly was just trying to be helpful].

[ Koby nods, though he’s looking at the floor. Laws reaction to the question has him flustered in return. He hadn’t meant it like that, he was offering out of genuinely concern for Laws wellbeing, but he probably should have realized out it would sound. At least he can’t be any more embarrassing— ]

I..uh..I only have one towel! So, you can..just..use..mine.

[ His face only gets more and more red for each word that comes out of his mouth. He’s never felt more like of an idiot. He needs to just shut up, still staring at the floorboards like they’re the most interesting thing he’s ever laid eyes on. He does not. ]

Really you can just use anything of mine! It’s— Make yourself comfortable…we have to……

[ He sighs, relinquishing himself to the situation at hand. ]

[But honestly, at this point, Law was just tired. So tired. The snarky remark about going back and sleeping on the cell floor never quite left his mouth, as the idea of sleeping in a real bed sounded... too good to pass up. Even if that meant... actually, he didn't want to think about that now.]

[So, Law closed his dumb gaping mouth and resigned himself to his fate.]

[The shower gave Law a much needed sense of relief, even if he had to intermittently sit down to rest his quivering legs. The combination of days wearing seastone, plus his mild starvation, really did a number on his stamina. He internally cursed himself for being so weak in front of Koby. It was fucking embarrassing.]

[Now that Law was no longer covered in grime, he awkwardly grabbed Koby's towel to dry off and change back into his own clothes. Asking for a change of clothes would be... too much. Not that Koby would have anything that fits his lanky stature, anyways.]

[Once he was dressed, he walked back out of the room, internally breathing a sigh of relief to see that Koby was, in fact, still diligently standing guard outside.]

tap

tap

[ The sound of footsteps echoes closer, bouncing off damp walls of the dim, empty hall of cells located far below deck. It breaks the oppressive silence, almost deafening in it’t sound, no matter how light the step is. It’s different than the slogging step of the guards, or the panicked pace waitstaff that bring the food down to him. It’s brisk. Confident. ]

[ Soon, almost too soon, the steps become more than an echo, closing the gap between the entrance and Laws cell, stopping in front of it and simply…standing. Silently observing from the shadowy place beyond the bars, eyes picking apart everything before them. Law can feel the brush of Observation over him several times, multiple unsuccessful though empathic attempts at gleaning information that isn’t already obvious. Of course Law is afraid, of course he is angry and defiantly withdrawn. Anyone would be. ]

[ Despite the Haki, Law can’t tell who it is until he finally speaks. The voice is annoyingly familiar, though much more commanding than anything Law has heard from him before, much more befitting of a Marine Captain negotiating with a former Warlord. ]

Trafalgar.

I’m more than familiar with how you must be feeling. I can likely get you out of this position, if you prove to be trustworthy. An alliance of circumstance, like before, though..this is no Rocky Port. There are only two lives to save. Yours, and my Commanders.

I won’t threaten you into compliance. You’re an intelligent man, a good one, I know you wouldn’t let anyone die from a..potentially incurable disease.

Right?

[Upon glancing over Law, a quick look was enough to tell Koby that he was not doing well. Uneaten food sat on an abandoned tray in front of him, his dark circles prominent and his facial hair unkept. Quite frankly, the other man looked like shit.]

[Law slowly looks up from where he's slumped against the cell wall, his eyes widening slightly in recognition and surprise. ...Koby? Why would he be here?]

[A snarky remark sat at the tip of his tongue. A marine begging a pirate for help? Someone who historically hates Law? Claiming he can save Law? What a fucking joke.]

[But something made Law pause. He had never seen Koby wear this expression- exhaustion, anxiety, concern- it was all easy to read in his desperate face.]

[Also... Incurable disease? What... Who is he talking about? It sparks something inside of him- his past he buried long ago. His own struggles with a supposedly incurable disease.]

[...But still. Law can't put his guard down. Now of all times, he can't afford it]

Law scoffs.

... I'm surprised that I'm the one you're coming to for help, of all people. You really trust me? A pirate? To save your... friend? colleague? Or... whoever it is.

...he pauses for a second, taking a deep breath and sighing lowly.

[ Koby squats down to be at Laws level. He holds up a ring with keys to the cell and the cuffs, maintaining strong eye contact with him as he speaks. ]

...Hanahaki. I've read about it before, long ago. Thought it was nothing more than a legend from sappy romance stories. Someone... actually managed to contract it?

[A glimmer of intrigue shines in his eyes. Law has always had an idle fascination for odd cases like this one- cases that only someone with an ability like his could solve.]

Something like that should be easy enough to fix... how far along are they? If you're coming to me I'm assuming you're getting pretty desperate... so it's probably at its end stage of progression, am I right? At this point, the damage to their respiratory system is more worrying than the flowers themselves. It could be quite... an interesting surgery.

[Law concludes, not breaking eye contact with the other man].

...Uncuff me. I'll take a look.

It’s only been a few days, and it’s…I don’t think it’s about romance. I overheard her talking with Admiral Ryokugyu and it seems like it’s entirely about her father, the Fleet Admiral..I don’t think you care much about that though. You just want a look inside, right?

Ah! Here, hold out your wrists.

[Rationally, he knows that Koby means no harm... he's not really like that. Law would never admit it out loud but among the Marines, Koby is... one of the not-as-horrible ones. He has a personality far different from Law's own, currently evident in his effort to smile, of all things, in the face of this... shitshow. It almost even made Law loosen up a little bit. Almost.]

[But the constant, suffocating aura of the ship, of Imu, has been keeping him on edge... like a prey animal that knows it's being hunted.]

[Law awkwardly held out his hands, letting Koby hold his wrist and fuss with the little locking mechanism, until he heard the telltale *click!* as the cuffs unlocked, dropping to the floor.]

[The relief was immediate, and a sigh left Law's mouth that he didn't even know he was holding in.]

...thank you, Koby-ya.

...

She’ll need medical attention either way, but..in the mean time, you look like you could use a shower, and something to eat. I know these cuffs make you woozy, I can’t imagine it’s easy to eat in that state…

[ Koby stands and offers his hand out to Law ]

She shouldn't let her pride get the best of her- talking with those blockhead Marines probably won't get her far. The sooner I take a look the better, but... in the end it's her choice, out of my hands.

[He looked warily at the extended hand, and at the earnest expression on the other's face. Before hesitantly reaching out and accepting the other's hand with a dusty blush from embarrassment, trying and failing to mask the quiver in his legs as he stood.]

...don't let this get to your head, Koby. Just because we're helping each other out doesn't mean we're friends or anything.

[Then, with a smaller voice,]

[A retort was on the tip of his tongue, before a pang of hunger jolted him back to reality.]

...okay. Fine.

A shower... would be good. Lead me to your room, then.

[ Koby walks with him slowly down the hallway, giving him as much time as he needs. He knows how sore his back was from sitting in a cell, and he wishes he hadn’t had to run with shooting pain in his spine. ]

[ The walk is long, painfully silent, and occasionally highlighted with the gentle brush of Koby’s Observation Haki. It’s not too dissimilar from walking with Luffy in that way, a wordless sort of ‘are you okay?’. It’s suddenly not so hard to understand why him and Luffy had been so quiet around each other on the Sunny, why they never seemed to need to tell each other anything. Each brush felt like a small bid to have Law reciprocate, to let Koby in even a little..]

[Koby clears his throat and nods at the door he stops next to.]

...I can go in first. If you... would maybe want to stay out here.

[He slowly opens the door, looking back towards Koby with an unreadable expression.]

[ He pauses, watching the way Law falters where he stands, frowning. He fidgets nervously for a moment, swallowing nothing before he speaks. ]

….I know you’ll say no, but I have to at least offer..

W-Wh- What?? H-help??

[he continued stammering awkwardly for a second as he processed that Koby just offered to fucking help him shower, until Law poorly tried to mask his fluster with a scowl]

N-no, I'll be fine on my own. I'm not... weak.

[Law was fully aware of how he currently was... actually quite weak. But he can only let himself be so vulnerable in front of another person. He has far passed that threshold for today, even if Koby truly was just trying to be helpful].

[ Koby nods, though he’s looking at the floor. Laws reaction to the question has him flustered in return. He hadn’t meant it like that, he was offering out of genuinely concern for Laws wellbeing, but he probably should have realized out it would sound. At least he can’t be any more embarrassing— ]

I..uh..I only have one towel! So, you can..just..use..mine.

[ His face only gets more and more red for each word that comes out of his mouth. He’s never felt more like of an idiot. He needs to just shut up, still staring at the floorboards like they’re the most interesting thing he’s ever laid eyes on. He does not. ]

Really you can just use anything of mine! It’s— Make yourself comfortable…we have to……

[ He sighs, relinquishing himself to the situation at hand. ]

[But honestly, at this point, Law was just tired. So tired. The snarky remark about going back and sleeping on the cell floor never quite left his mouth, as the idea of sleeping in a real bed sounded... too good to pass up. Even if that meant... actually, he didn't want to think about that now.]

[So, Law closed his dumb gaping mouth and resigned himself to his fate.]

WELL WOULD YA LOOK AT WHAT WE DREDGED UP!!!!!!!!

tap

tap

[ The sound of footsteps echoes closer, bouncing off damp walls of the dim, empty hall of cells located far below deck. It breaks the oppressive silence, almost deafening in it’t sound, no matter how light the step is. It’s different than the slogging step of the guards, or the panicked pace waitstaff that bring the food down to him. It’s brisk. Confident. ]

[ Soon, almost too soon, the steps become more than an echo, closing the gap between the entrance and Laws cell, stopping in front of it and simply…standing. Silently observing from the shadowy place beyond the bars, eyes picking apart everything before them. Law can feel the brush of Observation over him several times, multiple unsuccessful though empathic attempts at gleaning information that isn’t already obvious. Of course Law is afraid, of course he is angry and defiantly withdrawn. Anyone would be. ]

[ Despite the Haki, Law can’t tell who it is until he finally speaks. The voice is annoyingly familiar, though much more commanding than anything Law has heard from him before, much more befitting of a Marine Captain negotiating with a former Warlord. ]

Trafalgar.

I’m more than familiar with how you must be feeling. I can likely get you out of this position, if you prove to be trustworthy. An alliance of circumstance, like before, though..this is no Rocky Port. There are only two lives to save. Yours, and my Commanders.

I won’t threaten you into compliance. You’re an intelligent man, a good one, I know you wouldn’t let anyone die from a..potentially incurable disease.

Right?

[Upon glancing over Law, a quick look was enough to tell Koby that he was not doing well. Uneaten food sat on an abandoned tray in front of him, his dark circles prominent and his facial hair unkept. Quite frankly, the other man looked like shit.]

[Law slowly looks up from where he's slumped against the cell wall, his eyes widening slightly in recognition and surprise. ...Koby? Why would he be here?]

[A snarky remark sat at the tip of his tongue. A marine begging a pirate for help? Someone who historically hates Law? Claiming he can save Law? What a fucking joke.]

[But something made Law pause. He had never seen Koby wear this expression- exhaustion, anxiety, concern- it was all easy to read in his desperate face.]

[Also... Incurable disease? What... Who is he talking about? It sparks something inside of him- his past he buried long ago. His own struggles with a supposedly incurable disease.]

[...But still. Law can't put his guard down. Now of all times, he can't afford it]

Law scoffs.

... I'm surprised that I'm the one you're coming to for help, of all people. You really trust me? A pirate? To save your... friend? colleague? Or... whoever it is.

...he pauses for a second, taking a deep breath and sighing lowly.

[ Koby squats down to be at Laws level. He holds up a ring with keys to the cell and the cuffs, maintaining strong eye contact with him as he speaks. ]

...Hanahaki. I've read about it before, long ago. Thought it was nothing more than a legend from sappy romance stories. Someone... actually managed to contract it?

[A glimmer of intrigue shines in his eyes. Law has always had an idle fascination for odd cases like this one- cases that only someone with an ability like his could solve.]

Something like that should be easy enough to fix... how far along are they? If you're coming to me I'm assuming you're getting pretty desperate... so it's probably at its end stage of progression, am I right? At this point, the damage to their respiratory system is more worrying than the flowers themselves. It could be quite... an interesting surgery.

[Law concludes, not breaking eye contact with the other man].

...Uncuff me. I'll take a look.

It’s only been a few days, and it’s…I don’t think it’s about romance. I overheard her talking with Admiral Ryokugyu and it seems like it’s entirely about her father, the Fleet Admiral..I don’t think you care much about that though. You just want a look inside, right?

Ah! Here, hold out your wrists.

[Rationally, he knows that Koby means no harm... he's not really like that. Law would never admit it out loud but among the Marines, Koby is... one of the not-as-horrible ones. He has a personality far different from Law's own, currently evident in his effort to smile, of all things, in the face of this... shitshow. It almost even made Law loosen up a little bit. Almost.]

[But the constant, suffocating aura of the ship, of Imu, has been keeping him on edge... like a prey animal that knows it's being hunted.]

[Law awkwardly held out his hands, letting Koby hold his wrist and fuss with the little locking mechanism, until he heard the telltale *click!* as the cuffs unlocked, dropping to the floor.]

[The relief was immediate, and a sigh left Law's mouth that he didn't even know he was holding in.]

...thank you, Koby-ya.

...

She’ll need medical attention either way, but..in the mean time, you look like you could use a shower, and something to eat. I know these cuffs make you woozy, I can’t imagine it’s easy to eat in that state…

[ Koby stands and offers his hand out to Law ]

She shouldn't let her pride get the best of her- talking with those blockhead Marines probably won't get her far. The sooner I take a look the better, but... in the end it's her choice, out of my hands.

[He looked warily at the extended hand, and at the earnest expression on the other's face. Before hesitantly reaching out and accepting the other's hand with a dusty blush from embarrassment, trying and failing to mask the quiver in his legs as he stood.]

...don't let this get to your head, Koby. Just because we're helping each other out doesn't mean we're friends or anything.

[Then, with a smaller voice,]

[A retort was on the tip of his tongue, before a pang of hunger jolted him back to reality.]

...okay. Fine.

A shower... would be good. Lead me to your room, then.

[ Koby walks with him slowly down the hallway, giving him as much time as he needs. He knows how sore his back was from sitting in a cell, and he wishes he hadn’t had to run with shooting pain in his spine. ]

[ The walk is long, painfully silent, and occasionally highlighted with the gentle brush of Koby’s Observation Haki. It’s not too dissimilar from walking with Luffy in that way, a wordless sort of ‘are you okay?’. It’s suddenly not so hard to understand why him and Luffy had been so quiet around each other on the Sunny, why they never seemed to need to tell each other anything. Each brush felt like a small bid to have Law reciprocate, to let Koby in even a little..]

[Koby clears his throat and nods at the door he stops next to.]

...I can go in first. If you... would maybe want to stay out here.

[He slowly opens the door, looking back towards Koby with an unreadable expression.]

[ He pauses, watching the way Law falters where he stands, frowning. He fidgets nervously for a moment, swallowing nothing before he speaks. ]

….I know you’ll say no, but I have to at least offer..

W-Wh- What?? H-help??

[he continued stammering awkwardly for a second as he processed that Koby just offered to fucking help him shower, until Law poorly tried to mask his fluster with a scowl]

N-no, I'll be fine on my own. I'm not... weak.

[Law was fully aware of how he currently was... actually quite weak. But he can only let himself be so vulnerable in front of another person. He has far passed that threshold for today, even if Koby truly was just trying to be helpful].

How unprofessional!

Anyway.

tap

tap

[ The sound of footsteps echoes closer, bouncing off damp walls of the dim, empty hall of cells located far below deck. It breaks the oppressive silence, almost deafening in it’t sound, no matter how light the step is. It’s different than the slogging step of the guards, or the panicked pace waitstaff that bring the food down to him. It’s brisk. Confident. ]

[ Soon, almost too soon, the steps become more than an echo, closing the gap between the entrance and Laws cell, stopping in front of it and simply…standing. Silently observing from the shadowy place beyond the bars, eyes picking apart everything before them. Law can feel the brush of Observation over him several times, multiple unsuccessful though empathic attempts at gleaning information that isn’t already obvious. Of course Law is afraid, of course he is angry and defiantly withdrawn. Anyone would be. ]

[ Despite the Haki, Law can’t tell who it is until he finally speaks. The voice is annoyingly familiar, though much more commanding than anything Law has heard from him before, much more befitting of a Marine Captain negotiating with a former Warlord. ]

Trafalgar.

I’m more than familiar with how you must be feeling. I can likely get you out of this position, if you prove to be trustworthy. An alliance of circumstance, like before, though..this is no Rocky Port. There are only two lives to save. Yours, and my Commanders.

I won’t threaten you into compliance. You’re an intelligent man, a good one, I know you wouldn’t let anyone die from a..potentially incurable disease.

Right?

[Upon glancing over Law, a quick look was enough to tell Koby that he was not doing well. Uneaten food sat on an abandoned tray in front of him, his dark circles prominent and his facial hair unkept. Quite frankly, the other man looked like shit.]

[Law slowly looks up from where he's slumped against the cell wall, his eyes widening slightly in recognition and surprise. ...Koby? Why would he be here?]

[A snarky remark sat at the tip of his tongue. A marine begging a pirate for help? Someone who historically hates Law? Claiming he can save Law? What a fucking joke.]

[But something made Law pause. He had never seen Koby wear this expression- exhaustion, anxiety, concern- it was all easy to read in his desperate face.]

[Also... Incurable disease? What... Who is he talking about? It sparks something inside of him- his past he buried long ago. His own struggles with a supposedly incurable disease.]

[...But still. Law can't put his guard down. Now of all times, he can't afford it]

Law scoffs.

... I'm surprised that I'm the one you're coming to for help, of all people. You really trust me? A pirate? To save your... friend? colleague? Or... whoever it is.

...he pauses for a second, taking a deep breath and sighing lowly.

[ Koby squats down to be at Laws level. He holds up a ring with keys to the cell and the cuffs, maintaining strong eye contact with him as he speaks. ]

...Hanahaki. I've read about it before, long ago. Thought it was nothing more than a legend from sappy romance stories. Someone... actually managed to contract it?

[A glimmer of intrigue shines in his eyes. Law has always had an idle fascination for odd cases like this one- cases that only someone with an ability like his could solve.]

Something like that should be easy enough to fix... how far along are they? If you're coming to me I'm assuming you're getting pretty desperate... so it's probably at its end stage of progression, am I right? At this point, the damage to their respiratory system is more worrying than the flowers themselves. It could be quite... an interesting surgery.

[Law concludes, not breaking eye contact with the other man].

...Uncuff me. I'll take a look.

It’s only been a few days, and it’s…I don’t think it’s about romance. I overheard her talking with Admiral Ryokugyu and it seems like it’s entirely about her father, the Fleet Admiral..I don’t think you care much about that though. You just want a look inside, right?

Ah! Here, hold out your wrists.

[Rationally, he knows that Koby means no harm... he's not really like that. Law would never admit it out loud but among the Marines, Koby is... one of the not-as-horrible ones. He has a personality far different from Law's own, currently evident in his effort to smile, of all things, in the face of this... shitshow. It almost even made Law loosen up a little bit. Almost.]

[But the constant, suffocating aura of the ship, of Imu, has been keeping him on edge... like a prey animal that knows it's being hunted.]

[Law awkwardly held out his hands, letting Koby hold his wrist and fuss with the little locking mechanism, until he heard the telltale *click!* as the cuffs unlocked, dropping to the floor.]

[The relief was immediate, and a sigh left Law's mouth that he didn't even know he was holding in.]

...thank you, Koby-ya.

...

She’ll need medical attention either way, but..in the mean time, you look like you could use a shower, and something to eat. I know these cuffs make you woozy, I can’t imagine it’s easy to eat in that state…

[ Koby stands and offers his hand out to Law ]

She shouldn't let her pride get the best of her- talking with those blockhead Marines probably won't get her far. The sooner I take a look the better, but... in the end it's her choice, out of my hands.

[He looked warily at the extended hand, and at the earnest expression on the other's face. Before hesitantly reaching out and accepting the other's hand with a dusty blush from embarrassment, trying and failing to mask the quiver in his legs as he stood.]

...don't let this get to your head, Koby. Just because we're helping each other out doesn't mean we're friends or anything.

[Then, with a smaller voice,]

[A retort was on the tip of his tongue, before a pang of hunger jolted him back to reality.]

...okay. Fine.

A shower... would be good. Lead me to your room, then.

[ Koby walks with him slowly down the hallway, giving him as much time as he needs. He knows how sore his back was from sitting in a cell, and he wishes he hadn’t had to run with shooting pain in his spine. ]

[ The walk is long, painfully silent, and occasionally highlighted with the gentle brush of Koby’s Observation Haki. It’s not too dissimilar from walking with Luffy in that way, a wordless sort of ‘are you okay?’. It’s suddenly not so hard to understand why him and Luffy had been so quiet around each other on the Sunny, why they never seemed to need to tell each other anything. Each brush felt like a small bid to have Law reciprocate, to let Koby in even a little..]

[Koby clears his throat and nods at the door he stops next to.]

...I can go in first. If you... would maybe want to stay out here.

[He slowly opens the door, looking back towards Koby with an unreadable expression.]

How unprofessional!

Anyway.

tap

tap

[ The sound of footsteps echoes closer, bouncing off damp walls of the dim, empty hall of cells located far below deck. It breaks the oppressive silence, almost deafening in it’t sound, no matter how light the step is. It’s different than the slogging step of the guards, or the panicked pace waitstaff that bring the food down to him. It’s brisk. Confident. ]

[ Soon, almost too soon, the steps become more than an echo, closing the gap between the entrance and Laws cell, stopping in front of it and simply…standing. Silently observing from the shadowy place beyond the bars, eyes picking apart everything before them. Law can feel the brush of Observation over him several times, multiple unsuccessful though empathic attempts at gleaning information that isn’t already obvious. Of course Law is afraid, of course he is angry and defiantly withdrawn. Anyone would be. ]

[ Despite the Haki, Law can’t tell who it is until he finally speaks. The voice is annoyingly familiar, though much more commanding than anything Law has heard from him before, much more befitting of a Marine Captain negotiating with a former Warlord. ]

Trafalgar.

I’m more than familiar with how you must be feeling. I can likely get you out of this position, if you prove to be trustworthy. An alliance of circumstance, like before, though..this is no Rocky Port. There are only two lives to save. Yours, and my Commanders.

I won’t threaten you into compliance. You’re an intelligent man, a good one, I know you wouldn’t let anyone die from a..potentially incurable disease.

Right?

[Upon glancing over Law, a quick look was enough to tell Koby that he was not doing well. Uneaten food sat on an abandoned tray in front of him, his dark circles prominent and his facial hair unkept. Quite frankly, the other man looked like shit.]

[Law slowly looks up from where he's slumped against the cell wall, his eyes widening slightly in recognition and surprise. ...Koby? Why would he be here?]

[A snarky remark sat at the tip of his tongue. A marine begging a pirate for help? Someone who historically hates Law? Claiming he can save Law? What a fucking joke.]

[But something made Law pause. He had never seen Koby wear this expression- exhaustion, anxiety, concern- it was all easy to read in his desperate face.]

[Also... Incurable disease? What... Who is he talking about? It sparks something inside of him- his past he buried long ago. His own struggles with a supposedly incurable disease.]

[...But still. Law can't put his guard down. Now of all times, he can't afford it]

Law scoffs.

... I'm surprised that I'm the one you're coming to for help, of all people. You really trust me? A pirate? To save your... friend? colleague? Or... whoever it is.

...he pauses for a second, taking a deep breath and sighing lowly.

[ Koby squats down to be at Laws level. He holds up a ring with keys to the cell and the cuffs, maintaining strong eye contact with him as he speaks. ]

...Hanahaki. I've read about it before, long ago. Thought it was nothing more than a legend from sappy romance stories. Someone... actually managed to contract it?

[A glimmer of intrigue shines in his eyes. Law has always had an idle fascination for odd cases like this one- cases that only someone with an ability like his could solve.]

Something like that should be easy enough to fix... how far along are they? If you're coming to me I'm assuming you're getting pretty desperate... so it's probably at its end stage of progression, am I right? At this point, the damage to their respiratory system is more worrying than the flowers themselves. It could be quite... an interesting surgery.

[Law concludes, not breaking eye contact with the other man].

...Uncuff me. I'll take a look.

It’s only been a few days, and it’s…I don’t think it’s about romance. I overheard her talking with Admiral Ryokugyu and it seems like it’s entirely about her father, the Fleet Admiral..I don’t think you care much about that though. You just want a look inside, right?

Ah! Here, hold out your wrists.

[Rationally, he knows that Koby means no harm... he's not really like that. Law would never admit it out loud but among the Marines, Koby is... one of the not-as-horrible ones. He has a personality far different from Law's own, currently evident in his effort to smile, of all things, in the face of this... shitshow. It almost even made Law loosen up a little bit. Almost.]

[But the constant, suffocating aura of the ship, of Imu, has been keeping him on edge... like a prey animal that knows it's being hunted.]

[Law awkwardly held out his hands, letting Koby hold his wrist and fuss with the little locking mechanism, until he heard the telltale *click!* as the cuffs unlocked, dropping to the floor.]

[The relief was immediate, and a sigh left Law's mouth that he didn't even know he was holding in.]

...thank you, Koby-ya.

...

She’ll need medical attention either way, but..in the mean time, you look like you could use a shower, and something to eat. I know these cuffs make you woozy, I can’t imagine it’s easy to eat in that state…

[ Koby stands and offers his hand out to Law ]

She shouldn't let her pride get the best of her- talking with those blockhead Marines probably won't get her far. The sooner I take a look the better, but... in the end it's her choice, out of my hands.

[He looked warily at the extended hand, and at the earnest expression on the other's face. Before hesitantly reaching out and accepting the other's hand with a dusty blush from embarrassment, trying and failing to mask the quiver in his legs as he stood.]

...don't let this get to your head, Koby. Just because we're helping each other out doesn't mean we're friends or anything.

[Then, with a smaller voice,]

[A retort was on the tip of his tongue, before a pang of hunger jolted him back to reality.]

...okay. Fine.

A shower... would be good. Lead me to your room, then.

tap

tap

[ The sound of footsteps echoes closer, bouncing off damp walls of the dim, empty hall of cells located far below deck. It breaks the oppressive silence, almost deafening in it’t sound, no matter how light the step is. It’s different than the slogging step of the guards, or the panicked pace waitstaff that bring the food down to him. It’s brisk. Confident. ]

[ Soon, almost too soon, the steps become more than an echo, closing the gap between the entrance and Laws cell, stopping in front of it and simply…standing. Silently observing from the shadowy place beyond the bars, eyes picking apart everything before them. Law can feel the brush of Observation over him several times, multiple unsuccessful though empathic attempts at gleaning information that isn’t already obvious. Of course Law is afraid, of course he is angry and defiantly withdrawn. Anyone would be. ]

[ Despite the Haki, Law can’t tell who it is until he finally speaks. The voice is annoyingly familiar, though much more commanding than anything Law has heard from him before, much more befitting of a Marine Captain negotiating with a former Warlord. ]

Trafalgar.

I’m more than familiar with how you must be feeling. I can likely get you out of this position, if you prove to be trustworthy. An alliance of circumstance, like before, though..this is no Rocky Port. There are only two lives to save. Yours, and my Commanders.

I won’t threaten you into compliance. You’re an intelligent man, a good one, I know you wouldn’t let anyone die from a..potentially incurable disease.

Right?

[Upon glancing over Law, a quick look was enough to tell Koby that he was not doing well. Uneaten food sat on an abandoned tray in front of him, his dark circles prominent and his facial hair unkept. Quite frankly, the other man looked like shit.]

[Law slowly looks up from where he's slumped against the cell wall, his eyes widening slightly in recognition and surprise. ...Koby? Why would he be here?]

[A snarky remark sat at the tip of his tongue. A marine begging a pirate for help? Someone who historically hates Law? Claiming he can save Law? What a fucking joke.]

[But something made Law pause. He had never seen Koby wear this expression- exhaustion, anxiety, concern- it was all easy to read in his desperate face.]

[Also... Incurable disease? What... Who is he talking about? It sparks something inside of him- his past he buried long ago. His own struggles with a supposedly incurable disease.]

[...But still. Law can't put his guard down. Now of all times, he can't afford it]

Law scoffs.

... I'm surprised that I'm the one you're coming to for help, of all people. You really trust me? A pirate? To save your... friend? colleague? Or... whoever it is.

...he pauses for a second, taking a deep breath and sighing lowly.

[ Koby squats down to be at Laws level. He holds up a ring with keys to the cell and the cuffs, maintaining strong eye contact with him as he speaks. ]

...Hanahaki. I've read about it before, long ago. Thought it was nothing more than a legend from sappy romance stories. Someone... actually managed to contract it?

[A glimmer of intrigue shines in his eyes. Law has always had an idle fascination for odd cases like this one- cases that only someone with an ability like his could solve.]

Something like that should be easy enough to fix... how far along are they? If you're coming to me I'm assuming you're getting pretty desperate... so it's probably at its end stage of progression, am I right? At this point, the damage to their respiratory system is more worrying than the flowers themselves. It could be quite... an interesting surgery.

[Law concludes, not breaking eye contact with the other man].

...Uncuff me. I'll take a look.

It’s only been a few days, and it’s…I don’t think it’s about romance. I overheard her talking with Admiral Ryokugyu and it seems like it’s entirely about her father, the Fleet Admiral..I don’t think you care much about that though. You just want a look inside, right?

Ah! Here, hold out your wrists.

[Rationally, he knows that Koby means no harm... he's not really like that. Law would never admit it out loud but among the Marines, Koby is... one of the not-as-horrible ones. He has a personality far different from Law's own, currently evident in his effort to smile, of all things, in the face of this... shitshow. It almost even made Law loosen up a little bit. Almost.]

[But the constant, suffocating aura of the ship, of Imu, has been keeping him on edge... like a prey animal that knows it's being hunted.]

[Law awkwardly held out his hands, letting Koby hold his wrist and fuss with the little locking mechanism, until he heard the telltale *click!* as the cuffs unlocked, dropping to the floor.]

[The relief was immediate, and a sigh left Law's mouth that he didn't even know he was holding in.]

...thank you, Koby-ya.

...

She’ll need medical attention either way, but..in the mean time, you look like you could use a shower, and something to eat. I know these cuffs make you woozy, I can’t imagine it’s easy to eat in that state…

[ Koby stands and offers his hand out to Law ]

She shouldn't let her pride get the best of her- talking with those blockhead Marines probably won't get her far. The sooner I take a look the better, but... in the end it's her choice, out of my hands.

[He looked warily at the extended hand, and at the earnest expression on the other's face. Before hesitantly reaching out and accepting the other's hand with a dusty blush from embarrassment, trying and failing to mask the quiver in his legs as he stood.]

...don't let this get to your head, Koby. Just because we're helping each other out doesn't mean we're friends or anything.

[Then, with a smaller voice,]

tap

tap

[ The sound of footsteps echoes closer, bouncing off damp walls of the dim, empty hall of cells located far below deck. It breaks the oppressive silence, almost deafening in it’t sound, no matter how light the step is. It’s different than the slogging step of the guards, or the panicked pace waitstaff that bring the food down to him. It’s brisk. Confident. ]

[ Soon, almost too soon, the steps become more than an echo, closing the gap between the entrance and Laws cell, stopping in front of it and simply…standing. Silently observing from the shadowy place beyond the bars, eyes picking apart everything before them. Law can feel the brush of Observation over him several times, multiple unsuccessful though empathic attempts at gleaning information that isn’t already obvious. Of course Law is afraid, of course he is angry and defiantly withdrawn. Anyone would be. ]

[ Despite the Haki, Law can’t tell who it is until he finally speaks. The voice is annoyingly familiar, though much more commanding than anything Law has heard from him before, much more befitting of a Marine Captain negotiating with a former Warlord. ]

Trafalgar.

I’m more than familiar with how you must be feeling. I can likely get you out of this position, if you prove to be trustworthy. An alliance of circumstance, like before, though..this is no Rocky Port. There are only two lives to save. Yours, and my Commanders.

I won’t threaten you into compliance. You’re an intelligent man, a good one, I know you wouldn’t let anyone die from a..potentially incurable disease.

Right?

[Upon glancing over Law, a quick look was enough to tell Koby that he was not doing well. Uneaten food sat on an abandoned tray in front of him, his dark circles prominent and his facial hair unkept. Quite frankly, the other man looked like shit.]

[Law slowly looks up from where he's slumped against the cell wall, his eyes widening slightly in recognition and surprise. ...Koby? Why would he be here?]

[A snarky remark sat at the tip of his tongue. A marine begging a pirate for help? Someone who historically hates Law? Claiming he can save Law? What a fucking joke.]

[But something made Law pause. He had never seen Koby wear this expression- exhaustion, anxiety, concern- it was all easy to read in his desperate face.]

[Also... Incurable disease? What... Who is he talking about? It sparks something inside of him- his past he buried long ago. His own struggles with a supposedly incurable disease.]

[...But still. Law can't put his guard down. Now of all times, he can't afford it]

Law scoffs.

... I'm surprised that I'm the one you're coming to for help, of all people. You really trust me? A pirate? To save your... friend? colleague? Or... whoever it is.

...he pauses for a second, taking a deep breath and sighing lowly.

[ Koby squats down to be at Laws level. He holds up a ring with keys to the cell and the cuffs, maintaining strong eye contact with him as he speaks. ]

...Hanahaki. I've read about it before, long ago. Thought it was nothing more than a legend from sappy romance stories. Someone... actually managed to contract it?

[A glimmer of intrigue shines in his eyes. Law has always had an idle fascination for odd cases like this one- cases that only someone with an ability like his could solve.]

Something like that should be easy enough to fix... how far along are they? If you're coming to me I'm assuming you're getting pretty desperate... so it's probably at its end stage of progression, am I right? At this point, the damage to their respiratory system is more worrying than the flowers themselves. It could be quite... an interesting surgery.

[Law concludes, not breaking eye contact with the other man].

...Uncuff me. I'll take a look.

It’s only been a few days, and it’s…I don’t think it’s about romance. I overheard her talking with Admiral Ryokugyu and it seems like it’s entirely about her father, the Fleet Admiral..I don’t think you care much about that though. You just want a look inside, right?

Ah! Here, hold out your wrists.

[Rationally, he knows that Koby means no harm... he's not really like that. Law would never admit it out loud but among the Marines, Koby is... one of the not-as-horrible ones. He has a personality far different from Law's own, currently evident in his effort to smile, of all things, in the face of this... shitshow. It almost even made Law loosen up a little bit. Almost.]

[But the constant, suffocating aura of the ship, of Imu, has been keeping him on edge... like a prey animal that knows it's being hunted.]

[Law awkwardly held out his hands, letting Koby hold his wrist and fuss with the little locking mechanism, until he heard the telltale *click!* as the cuffs unlocked, dropping to the floor.]

[The relief was immediate, and a sigh left Law's mouth that he didn't even know he was holding in.]

...thank you, Koby-ya.

...