The blue gentlemen, and the straw hat.

CHAPTER 1: Dragon's daughter.

It was rather quiet, too quiet. Dragon noticed. It's out of the ordinary because the revolutionaries usually celebrate every time he returned from long missions. Dragon wondered what everyone was doing to be the source of so much noise, but decided not to linger on the thought, as there was a more pressing matter at hand. The revolution leader opened the top draw to his desk, searching through a few wanted posters before finding the one he sort after. It read *Monkey D Luffy: Wanted Dead or Alive* The man smirked at the impressive bounty his only daughter had managed. She would have only turned 17 recently and already she was making a name for herself. Dragon couldn't help but be impressed by his daughter's actions. However, as his eyes lingered on the photo of his daughter, he couldn't help but feel worried for her safety. Being a Pirate was no easy job. Thinking back, Dragon wondered how Luffy would handle in the grand line. Especially after what happened in Louge town.

It had happened barely a week ago, when Dragon had been doing some small investigations there, it must have been pure luck that he'd run into his daughter of all people. However, when he did see her there were several. For starters, she had almost been killed by that damn Buggy the clown, if she didn't have god's luck, and her devil's fruit, then that thunder blast would have killed her sure. Even Buggy's survival was questionable to the man. Either way, Dragon was not happy that his daughter, his only legacy, had nearly been killed. Another eyesore was Captain Smoker. He'd also nearly killed his daughter and would have if Dragon himself hadn't of interfered. If he hadn't have been there then who knows that would have happened to his precious offspring. Those two experiences demonstrated to Dragon that Luffy, despite how far she'd come she was not capable of protecting herself, let alone those around her. Dragon cared about Luffy despite never involving himself in her life, although he'd only done such things in hopes of sparing her from the harsh reality the Revolution faces. But either way, he hated having to worry about her all the time... And it didn't help that he couldn't protect her himself constantly, as it would soon be obvious that he was her father, which would make her situation a whole lot worse.

Dragon sat at his desk, now neglecting his duties while trying to think of a way he could protect Luffy without making it known to the world that he was her father. There had to be away, but no matter how hard, or how many times Dragon had thought what to do, he could never get an answer. There had to be some sort of alternative... The Revolutionary leader was about ready to give up, but there was a sudden, yet soft knock on his office door. Knowing who it was at the door by the way they'd knock, Dragon quickly placed his daughters wanted poster away inside his desk's drawer, Dragon gave a simple answer to the knock.

"Come in." He directed. When the door opened, none other than the chief of staff walked through as Dragon had expected. He gave Dragon a smile as he entered which was something the blonde normally did. It usually made Dragon smile inwardly to himself at how comfortable the chief was around him since many members of the revolution would act extremely formal, if not scared of him. Well, he was the leader so that was to be expected, but the blonde's familiarity was quite refreshing. As usual, he was carrying a hand full of papers while his signature pipe rested on his back.

"Hello, Dragon-san." He stated gladly while flicking through the papers he'd held onto. He handed the man three or four papers from his stack which accounted for his most recent mission. Dragon took them from the blonde and scanned through the small handful of papers. The documents were worn and messy so deciphering them was a mission somewhat. It had taken him a few minutes, to which the blonde waited patiently during that time, and after being satisfied with what he had read, Dragon handed the papers back to the second in command, motioning for him to wait a moment.

"Very good Sabo, you can file them with the north blue accidents, let me write you a tag." Dragon gave his younger comrade a small smile, which was very rare for him, before finding an empty label tag to the mark. It was common knowledge that before filing anything, it had to be approved by Dragon first. The leader himself felt this particular file was important as it accounts mentioned the rumoured Germa Army. Dragon had taken quite an interest in the Army, and more so their technology. Sabo was, however, the only person to know of Dragon's interest, which is why he alone is sent to retrieve information on the army. The blonde grinned and waited for his tag, and once received he thanked his leader before walking away.

As Sabo walked towards the office door, Dragon couldn't help but be reminded of how reliable the young man was. He had to be the most trusted out of all of his comrades, even people he'd had more history with such as Ivankov or Kuma. Not to mention how powerful he was, and determined as well. Dragon only wished the young man knew what to do with all his determination. It had been 10 years since he had met Sabo and he almost considered him as his own son. He knew that if anything were to happen to himself, he would leave the revolution in Sabo's hands. The brunette man hummed to himself at the thought of passing his lifework onto the blonde. He was very strong and was capable of protecting dozens of members without fail. Suddenly, Dragon's last thought sparked an idea in his mind. Sabo, he could protect people, he was strong, reliable, and almost like a son to him. The revolutionary leader played those facts on repeat in his mind, before coming to a somewhat rushed conclusion. "Wait." He voiced to the blonde. Sabo could hear the urgency in his voice.

"Sir?" The blonde questioned, unsure why his boss had suddenly addressed him like that. Sabo walked back to Dragon, whose expression gave the impression that he was having a mental debate in his mind. Sabo waited patiently to let Dragon come to a decision, despite his confusion, and Dragon soon did speak up.

"Am I right, that you've recently turned 20?" Sabo gave the man a confused look, which was now very prominent on his face, compared to how it was only vaguely seen. It was a rather odd question and he Sabo wondered what it had to do with anything. However, putting his questions aside he answered nonetheless.

"Uh, that's correct sir. However, it's nearing the end of May. My birthday was sometime in March." Sabo explained. He'd never quite known anything about himself aside from his name and birthdate, since those things were written on a handkerchief that apparently belonged to him when he was a child. The 20th of March. Sabo couldn't ever remember anything more than that. It was curious for Dragon to be concerned about his age, but the blonde assumed the man had his reasons. Dragon, however, looked at the confused blonde in front of him, a smile finding it's way to his face, which for some reason looked daunting to the blonde. He had looked as though he was planning something.

"I see. The years sure are passing by." Dragon said with some enjoyment in his tone, which eased Sabo's nerves, however, the confusion only returned as the man continued. "And, if I may ask, what do you plan to do from now on? Has a family ever crossed your mind?" Sabo found a frown reach his lips, he was really confused by what Dragon was trying to get at. What was he even trying to ask him? Because he sure did hide his intentions well. Sabo sweatdropped at the thought of having a family in future times. He'd never thought about such things before and he felt himself get nervous by his leader's sudden interest in his personal life.

"Erm, well... It's not like I've met anyone. I think that the Revolution is my only family." Sabo scratched his cheek sheepishly, hoping that answer would be enough to get his boss to stop questioning him. Although, the blonde's reaction had only caused Dragon to laugh at the young man's shyness. It was hilarious that someone of his age would still get nervous about these sorts of conversations. Dragon's mind was now sure that his plan would work well, not only to help preserve the Revolution but also to help Sabo's social situation.

"I see. Well, that seems to be all I need to know. I'll be giving you a new mission." Dragon reached into his top draw, pulling out a wanted poster. Sabo wondered why those questions had related to his new mission but shrugged the thought aside when he'd realised Dragon wanted him to go on a mission. He sighed because, in all honesty, the blonde wasn't really wanting to go on any missions as of now, he had just returned from his previous mission and was exhausted. He'd hoped he would be able to relax or take the day off, not be sent right back out into the field for another mission. The blonde hoped it wouldn't be a group mission, as he preferred his solo missions. Either way, this day was just getting longer and longer.

"Uh, If I may ask. What exactly is the mission?" Sabo inquired. Wishing his boss would hurry and ease his confusion. Dragon held onto the wanted poster he'd had, not yet handing it to the blonde, and instead cleared his throat as if he'd been waiting to explain something. Sabo was all ears now and kept quiet because he wanted to know all the details if only to calm his mind.

"Sabo. You are one of, if not the best subordinate we have here at the Revolution. You acquired the title of 'Chief of staff' and have become my most trusted partner." The brunette man started, which caused the blonde to gape slightly at all the praise he was receiving. Sure he was a good member, and he loved to work, and he supported the Revolution fully, however... most trusted partner? It was hard to think Dragon thought that highly of him. An embarrassed flush mad it's way to Sabo's cheeks as the man continued. "And as such, I trust you with everything I have. Sabo, I am getting old, I'm 53 years old, and although lot's of men work themselves into their grave, my forsaken father being a prominent example, this doesn't mean I want to step down, However, something could happen to me at any time and I do not want the Revolution to be left with nothing, and with no one to support them." Sabo found it in himself to listen intently to Dragons words. He was worried about the future, that was very considerate of him. However... what did all of this have to do with him?

Dragon looked over the blonde one more time, which was something he'd been doing a lot Sabo noticed, before letting a smile reach his face as he kept speaking. "Sabo, I decided, that if anything were to happen to me, you would become the head of the Revolution." The embarrassed blush reddened at Dragons statement. Him? Become the leader of the Revolution!? Sabo couldn't believe he was hearing such things! He wanted to say something but he felt like his tongue was caught in his throat. The blonde had noticed that Dragon was looking him over once more, which he didn't understand, however, he managed to utter a handful of words despite the heavy gaze he was for some reason receiving.

"Th-thank you for... this opportunity to-" Sabo attempted his sincere thanks, however, was cut off by Dragon himself who apparently wasn't finished speaking. The blonde mentally hit himself for not letting his superior finish. After all the training he'd done, and all the politeness he savoured so high;y, he still made mistakes such a these, and at a critical moment, if the expression on Dragon's face was any indication.

"However. Sabo. Despite all your loyal work, I had vowed to myself, that the Revolution would be left in the hands of a blood relative." Suddenly the blush faded, and Sabo felt himself begin to feel upset. Did Dragon really build-up to this moment, by telling him he wanted to leave the Revolution to him, but then immediately shut him down? That was just too cruel. Besides, Dragon didn't do or say anything without a reason so there must have been a purpose. Sabo hoped so anyway. As the blonde stood there, expression slightly more solemn, Dragon took that moment to hand the wanted poster to Sabo.

The blonde took the paper, and read the name *Monkey D Luffy*, and the mention of that name for some reason had caused Sabo's body to stiffen. He re-read the name several times, letting it sink in, and couldn't help but recognise it. Monkey D... Perhaps this was the person who was to inherit the Revolution instead of him, as her name sounded much like Dragon's, and there didn't seem to be any other reason why he'd bring this up. However, who was she exactly? A relative for sure, but how? A niece? cousin? Sabo wasn't sure, He studied the poster a while longer, and couldn't help but feel like he knew her. That sure is odd. Why did she look so familiar? However before he could get lost in his thoughts, Dragon spoke up. "As you can see. Her name is Monkey D Luffy. She actually my daughter and-" Sabo froze where he stood. This time his reaction was much faster. Did Dragon say that right? There's no way he heard him correctly!

"You have a daughter!?" He asked with a fair hint of panic escaping his mouth. Dragon wasn't surprised by the boy's reaction. Although he did wonder if he actually should attempt to explain the mission, as the blonde seemed to be very confused, and not in need of any more excitement. Either way, Dragon continued, as the faster he'd tell the blonde, the faster he could get on with his day.

"Yes, that's right. But please don't blurt it out to anyone. Even Ivankov doesn't know I have a daughter, despite how much he probed me to tell him." Sabo calmed down somewhat, glancing down at the poster one last time before looking back at Dragon. Why was he being told this? Why him? If even Ivankov didn't know, why was he favoured in this situation? Sabo didn't know, but he waited to hear Dragon's second explanation. The man reluctantly continued. "Now Sabo. What I'm about to tell you may be a bit of a surprise, so please don't lose it in my office okay?" Sabo nodded slowly, unsure why the mission would be as a shock to him. Surely it wouldn't be that bad.

"Yes sir, I promise." Dragon nodded before continuing.

"Good. Now, Luffy had recently turned 17. I saw her during my last mission and she doesn't seem to be holding up too well strength-wise. I want to protect her, however, the world doesn't know that she's my daughter so I can't do it." Sabo for some reason felt like he knew what Dragon was about to tell him. He was assuming having to be a chaperon for the girl or something? Maybe have to bring her back here to see Dragon? "Sabo. I want you to go and meet Luffy, and bring her here. I'm asking this of you because you are my most trusted companion, I almost see you as my son." Sabo grinned pridefully at the man's words. He even had guessed it was an escort mission. Those were usually boring but whatever. "And there would be no one better to marry my daughter."

Then everything went silent.

Sabo hadn't quite registered what he'd been told, but as the words sunk into the man's head he slowly understood. 'Marry' 'daughter'. Sabo glanced down at the poster, then back at Dragon, then everything clicked and the blonde lost it.

"WHAT!?" Sabo fell back in surprise, not expecting those words to ever come out of Dragon's mouth. The blonde literally fainted where he stood from shock, he collapsed on the spot, his face as pale as a ghost. Dragon sighed at the blonde's antics, knowing he wouldn't have been able to take it. It's ridiculous how the man can raid a castle but can't be told of an arranged marriage. And yet, Dragon knew he would be the best for Luffy; he could already see it. Dragon then picked up the den den-mushi, and Hack answered on the other end.

"Dragon-san? What do you need?" Dragon hummed as his gaze met the unconscious Sabo, then replied.

"The chief of staff just collapsed in my office. Please take him to the infirmary." Hack immediately hung up the mushi and Dragon didn't even have to wait a minute before the fish man himself opened the door to see what had happened. Hack looked at the ghost faced Sabo and then at Dragon in utter horror.

"What the hell happened to Sabo!?" He shouted at no one. Quickly gathering the blonde, Dragon quickly scribbled something down on a piece of paper. He knew that Sabo could sometimes be a bit reckless so instructions may lessen the chance of the entire world finding out Luffy is his daughter. That wouldn't simply be a mess Dragon wasn't all too willing to deal with right now. He had faith Sabo would do a good job but, you simply just never knew.

"Hack, if you could please give this to Sabo when he wakes up. He needs to leave on his new mission as soon as possible." Hack took the piece of paper. Feeling bad that Sabo would still have to leave in his condition. What exactly was he and Dragon talking about the caused the poor guy to faint?

"Understood..." Hack answered warily, unsure what on earth sort of mission it was Sabo was given, to put him in this kind of state. Assuming that was why this happened. Hack left in a rush to the infirmary, and neither he nor Dragon noticed that the blonde's grip was still firm on the wanted poster.

Sabo woke up to a blinding light, he jostled out from his bed rather quickly, his thoughts immediately lingering to his conversation with Dragon. Remembering the context of the conversation, the blonde sighed and slumped in the bed. Sabo looked around, noting that he was in the infirmary. Sabo looked around, seeing a vase of flowers near his bed. What the hell was that about? Was he dying or something? He continued to examine the side table, seeing that the wanted poster from earlier was sitting there. It looked a little crinkled which Sabo assumed was his tight grip from earlier. However, there was another note that was folded in half sitting on the table. Sabo reached over and grabbed it, opening the paper then read the message.

*Sabo, you must not tell anyone of your mission. Especially do not mention anything about Luffy being my daughter.*

It was signed with Dragon's signature. That's rather formal. And as if on demand, Hack and Koala entered the room, Koala was comically crying at the sight os Sabo awake. "Sabo-kun! How could you faint like that!? You had me worried!" She threw her arms about in a childish way. Sabo chuckled at the girl's antics. Same old Koala she was very worried for him usually, which was odd for him. While the revolutionary women acted like a child, Hack made his way over to Sabo's bedside.

"Sabo, How are you doing? Also, what exactly was your conversation with dragon all about? You don't usually pass out that easily." It was nice of Hack to be concerned for the blondes well being. However, he didn't exactly want to tell him about what had happened. He wasn't even allowed to... Not to mention how embarrassing that must have been...

"Oh, I'm doing fine. About that, It's... confidential." Hack sighed in defeat at Sabo's words. Koala then made her way to the blonde, worry covering her face.

"Oh, come on Sabo-kun!" Koala pouted knowing that the blonde probably wouldn't say anything about the mission. Her interest switched elsewhere when she glanced over at the wanted poster. She picked it up and showed the nobleman. "You could at least, explain what this was doing in your hand? Who exactly is this anyway?" Sabo sweatdropped, that was the one thing Dragon had instructed him not to say. If anything it was more confidential than anything else... Right?

"That's.. also, confidential." Koala pouted at the blondes secretive responses. She wanted to know what was going on but it simply didn't seem like she would.

"She's not your girlfriend is she?" Koala inquired, Hack coughed at the women words and Sabo just about choked on thin air.

"No, she isn't." Sabo barely managed to say formally, trying to not give away who she was. "Future finance?" he mentally added, then cursed himself for saying such things. He didn't even know the girl. Or well, he was pretty sure he didn't. When he looked at her face, her sweet smile, it was all so familiar if only Sabo could put his finger on who she was. It was almost frustrating but he decided to set the thought aside for now.

"Good, I would be mad if you got a girlfriend without telling me!" Koala shouted back. Sabo was snapped out of his thoughts at his comrade's shout. The blonde simply narrowed his eyes at the girl.

"What are you, my mother?" Koala snapped at the comment, she looked like she was about to hit him, however, Hack held her back before she could do any damage. Sabo continued, "Anyway, I better get going. I'm sure Dragon said I had to leave right away." Hack nodded and Koala calmed down, eye-watering at the fact that Sabo had to leave.

"But, Sabo-kun." She whined, however, Sabo waved her off, knowing he had to focus on the task at hand. He also needed some alone time, to try and figure out what exactly he would do about this whole situation. It was nice that Dragon trusted him with such a title, Sabo was sure that being asked by Dragon himself to marry is only known daughter was indeed special. But the blonde didn't know what to do about it. What if he didn't even like the girl? He would simply put it aside for now and try and locate her. He swiftly made his way out of the infirmary and left Hack and Koala alone to wonder what had gotten into the chief of staff.

Quite a while away from the revolutionaries base, there sailed a rather small ship with a particular girl aboard, she wore a red vest with high shorts. A straw hat rested on her head while she looked out onto the sea. She and her crew had done it. They had made it to the grand line, now the real adventure would begin.

"ACHOO!" She sneezed. Obviously, someone was talking about her. She had no clue who it was though.

TBC.

[AUTHORS NOTES]

Rewrote this chapter which I think makes it much better than before. Writing it was frustrating because I was adding so much, then I got to 4k words and I just had to stop editing, so the ending is much more shortened... But oh well, It's better than before and that's all I really care about. Until next chapter update.