Chapter 19: Choices and decisions
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Continuing their path through the submarine, Law and Emi headed toward the infirmary. As soon as they entered, Law transformed from captain to doctor. He approached the medicine cabinet, retrieving what he needed without hesitation. Meanwhile, Emi settled on one of the examination beds, watching Law become a health professional, completely different from the pirate she knew.
He began by carefully examining Emi's injured rib, gently palpating to assess the extent of the damage while keeping her stable to minimize her pain. After confirming that the fracture was healing well, he applied a specialized support band around her torso, adjusting the tension to provide both support and comfort without being too tight. Throughout this process, Emi, though clearly in pain, tried to remain stoic.
Next, Law attended to Emi's sprained ankle. He gently manipulated her ankle, testing the range of motion and ligament integrity. Once the evaluation was complete, he applied a light but sturdy brace that would immobilize the ankle while allowing some mobility. During this, Emi sneezed abruptly. However, Law, focused on properly treating her injuries, didn't seem to pay it any attention.
Despite the evident tension from their situation , the atmosphere in the infirmary was calm and professional. Emi couldn't help but be impressed by Law's stoic demeanor. The tension from before, the uncertainty, the frustration—all of it seemed to melt away as he focused on his task. There was a certain gentleness in the way he handled her injuries, a side of him that she had rarely seen.
As she watched him work, a question began to form in her mind. Why is he so... gentle? She had known Law as someone who rarely showed emotion, let alone kindness. Was it simply the doctor in him, the part of him trained to heal and protect?
She couldn't quite figure it out. She wondered if this gentleness was something he reserved only for moments like this or if it was a deeper part of who he was. And if it was the latter, why did he keep it hidden so well?
Trying to distract herself from her thoughts, Emi observed the surgeon's hands. The tattoos adorning his fingers, spelling out the word "DEATH" in black letters, were both macabre and fascinating to her.
She raised her eyes to his face and noticed the two gold rings piercing each ear, adding to his already mysterious and intimidating aura.
As he bent down to adjust the brace on her ankle, a slight movement of his partially open shirt revealed another tribal tattoo along his chest. Emi's curiosity was piqued even further, but she knew that asking about his personal marks might be too intrusive.
She couldn't help but notice his physique. Despite his lean frame, his movements revealed a well-defined musculature, particularly around his torso where sculpted abs were visible beneath his shirt.
Emi felt a warmth rise within her, a strange sensation that seemed to radiate from her cheeks. Perplexed, she wondered what could be causing this feeling. It couldn't be Law, could it? She tried to dismiss the thought, but the proximity of the surgeon, coupled with the glimpse of his muscular chest and the seriousness of his care, created an unusual mix of sensations within her.
Law finished his work and looked up at Emi. As the silence stretched on, she had to make a conscious effort to tear her eyes away from his chest and meet his gaze. Law's gray eyes locked onto hers, intensifying the moment of hesitation. Time seemed to stand still; Law's penetrating gaze captured her full attention, and she felt inexplicably vulnerable under his silent scrutiny.
Emi, unsettled by this unspoken moment of intimacy, searched for words to break the silence, but nothing seemed appropriate. Law, ever composed, observed her reaction, perhaps aware of the effect his presence had on her.
He finally broke the silence with a deep voice, "If you really wanted to see my tattoos, you could have just asked."
Emi blushed, embarrassed at being caught in the act.
"I ... I wasn't staring!" she stammered, trying to regain her composure.
"You seemed very interested in my chest just now," he said, raising an eyebrow.
"It just happened to be in my line of sight," she replied, attempting to hide her embarrassment.
Law fixed Emi with his gaze again, a sly smile playing on his lips. He found it easy to tease Emi, her naivety always contrasting with her determined and impulsive demeanor. He was surprised to find that he appreciated this contrast, but his expression suddenly darkened as he remembered her impulsivity.
He broke the silence again, this time with a note of frustration in his voice, returning to a subject that clearly weighed on his mind.
"Why did you undertake that investigation on the ship without assessing the risks and without consulting me?"
Emi, suddenly brought back to reality by his direct question, felt a spark of defiance rise within her. Her findings had nothing to do with Caesar's affairs, and she didn't feel obliged to share her actions or information with him.
"I'm a journalist, don't forget that. I have my own tasks to handle that don't concern you." she replied curtly.
However, Law, with unshakable calm, responded, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.
"It becomes my problem the moment it puts both of us in unnecessary danger. We're in the same boat, literally and metaphorically, and your actions could have affected the entire crew."
Law's tone was firm, underscoring the fact that she couldn't act independently without considering the potential consequences for the whole crew. Emi felt a mix of frustration and acknowledgment of this reality; she understood his point of view, but already agitated by her pain, she felt even more irritated by his reproaches and wasn't ready to admit her faults.
"Just because we collaborate on some things doesn't mean you get to dictate my every move," she snapped back.
Law, with his preference for meticulous planning, felt frustrated by Emi's impulsiveness. She had a tendency to act on emotion, a method that could jeopardize carefully orchestrated operations.
For him, absolute focus was necessary. He had a plan against Doflamingo, and any deviation or distraction could be fatal. Emi, with her multiple engagements and journalistic zeal, was scattering her attention, focusing less on her mission concerning Caesar. This dispersion of Emi's priorities deeply irritated him because he saw her as a key element in his plans against Doflamingo, and every distraction was a potential risk.
"You need to stay focused on Caesar," Law insisted, his tone tinged with irritation. "I've noticed you've been handling other matters on the side, and it's distracting you from our main objective."
Outraged by what she perceived as selfishness, Emi retorted vehemently, "First of all, you're not my client or my boss, Law, so you have no right to tell me what to do. Besides, you're the one who forced me to come here, and now you have the audacity to give me orders. Why should I set aside my other missions and my journalism just for you and a project you're not even transparent about with me?"
"I owe you nothing, and don't forget you're on my ship. I don't need to be transparent with you, but you need discipline."
This statement, though cold, was imbued with an implacable logic that Law applied not only to his strategy but to all his interactions. It was a clear reminder of the limits of their alliance.
Typically unflappable and distant with his allies, Law had started to feel an internal discomfort with the relatively gentle approach he had taken with Emi. It was atypical for him, as he preferred to maintain a calculated coldness to ensure the discipline and focus necessary for his plans' success. Recognizing this anomaly in his behavior, he strove to reestablish the usual distance.
Emi felt a growing indignation. She was not a pawn in Law's plans; she had her own career and missions to prioritize. The idea that he could command her so freely was offensive, especially considering how he had brought her into this adventure—under duress and without the transparency she had hoped for.
Emi clenched her fists, her gaze hardening. "Discipline? Since when do I need your lessons in discipline, Law? I've survived far more dangerous situations than this one thanks to my instincts and judgment. If I listen to you, it's because I choose to, not because you impose your rules on me."
Law straightened up, now towering over Emi as she remained seated on the examination table, his stern gaze locked onto her eyes.
"Listen carefully, journalist-ya. I brought you here for a reason, and you need to focus on that reason. End of discussion."
Emi felt her anger rising, but she knew she had to stay calm to get what she wanted.
"You want me to do my part, fine. But you need to be more honest about your plans against Doflamingo if you want my full cooperation."
Law crossed his arms, his piercing gaze fixed on her. "I've already told you what you need to know. You don't need more."
Emi raised an eyebrow. "Maybe you could start by telling me about Joker?"
Law frowned at the mention of Joker. How did she know? This sudden revelation was a reminder of Emi's stealthy actions and her ability to uncover even the most hidden information.
Seeing the impact of her words, Emi added with determination, "I know you're dealing with Doflamingo, but if you want my full cooperation, I need to understand what we're up against. Without that, how can I fully align with your goals?"
Law took a moment to think about his response. He knew that keeping Emi with the minimum amount of information was no longer a viable option, especially now that she had proven she could gather information on her own and keep it from the rest of the crew.
He sighed, resigning himself to revealing only the informative, non-personal parts.
"Joker is the codename Doflamingo uses for his underground operations. He's a major player in the criminal underworld, involved in more than just arms trafficking," Law said in a grave, measured voice. "I want to confirm whether or not Caesar Clown is involved in his dealings."
This newfound transparency from Law changed Emi's approach to their collaboration. She had initially accepted this forced alliance with Trafalgar Law largely because she saw him as an interesting subject for a crucial article she needed to write to keep her job. However, as their partnership progressed and the layers of mystery surrounding Law began to unravel, she started to see even greater journalistic opportunities.
The complexity and scale of Doflamingo's operations under the name Joker, the arms trafficking, and Caesar Clown were proving to be a goldmine for potentially explosive and impactful stories. If she could navigate the treacherous waters of their missions while maintaining Law's trust, she could not only ensure her safety but also gather enough information to write deep and revealing articles that would surely interest and impress her editors.
"I'm willing to put aside my journalistic curiosity about some of your activities," she said in a softer yet resolute voice. "But I expect you to keep me informed about your discoveries as well."
Though Law would remain cautious about the information he shared, he recognized the potential value she brought to his objective. "As long as your writings don't jeopardize our operations, I see mutual benefit in you delving into these subjects."
Emi knew that every piece of information Law chose to share was calculated. Her journalistic curiosity burned to know more, to better understand. Why would a pirate of Law's stature be involved with someone like Doflamingo? What were his true objectives? Associating with such a figure could bring powerful allies but also dangerous enemies. Emi wondered how far their connections extended and what Law was really planning. This didn't fit the image of a pirate merely seeking to increase his power or territory… There had to be more behind it. But she also knew she had to tread carefully. She decided to leave her deeper questions for later, appreciating that Law had already shared a glimpse of his plans.
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Night had fallen, and Emi stood at the bow of the submarine, watching the waves crash against the hull. The sea air was fresh and invigorating, but her mind was elsewhere, lost in thoughts of the slaves she had seen on the island. Their distress and despair had deeply affected her, and she couldn't just continue her life without taking action.
She pulled a Den Den Mushi from her satchel and dialed a number she had sworn to use only in absolute necessity. After a few rings, a familiar voice answered, with a hint of surprise.
"Emi? It's been a while. How are you?"
Emi took a deep breath before responding, trying to push aside her dark thoughts for the moment. "I'm fine," she said in a steady voice, "And you, how are things going on your end?"
There was a brief pause, followed by a measured response. "Things are moving along, as always. A few complications here and there, but nothing major. We're doing our best to stay on course."
Emi nodded, even though he couldn't see her. It was typical of him to remain vague, but she knew he wasn't the type to dwell on his own problems. It was time to get to the real reason she had called.
"I have information on a slavery and arms trafficking operation involving a noble," she began in a low but firm voice, "And I think it's something you'll want to see for yourselves."
Before Emi could continue her detailed explanation, a familiar voice interrupted the conversation from the background. "Is that Emi?! Pass her the receiver!" She instantly recognized the enthusiastic tone, which brought a nostalgic smile to her face despite the tension.
A few seconds later, the person took over the receiver, their warm voice filling the line. "Hey Emi, it's me, Sabo! It's been a while! How are you?"
Emi, slightly thrown off by Sabo's sudden interruption, decided to hide her melancholy and play along for a moment before diving into the darker details of her discovery. "Yo, Sabo, I'm doing well. And you? Still out there saving the world?"
Sabo laughed heartily. "You know me! But tell me, what brings on this surprise? Have you finally decided to join our cause?"
Emi smiled at Sabo's remark, but she knew she had to quickly shift back to the serious matter that prompted her to contact them. She took a short breath, searching for the right words before responding.
"Sabo, it's always tempting to join you," she replied with a slight smile in her voice. "But there's something urgent I need to talk to you about. It's related to a slavery and arms trafficking operation tied to a noble and a royal family."
Sabo immediately became serious, even though Emi couldn't see it. "I'm listening, Emi. Tell me everything."
She then explained in detail what she had observed and discovered—the construction of a noble's castle, the conditions of the slaves, and the possible involvement of the Amadeo family, which immediately piqued Sabo's interest. The Revolutionary Army was always ready to act against the abuses of the nobility, especially if it could help destabilize the World Government.
The conversation ended on a note of mutual gratitude, with Sabo thanking Emi for her information and her thanking him for his attention. After hanging up, Emi felt a mix of relief and anticipation. She had done what she could; now, it was up to the Revolutionary Army to take over. Perhaps, thanks to her intervention, the chains of a few unfortunate souls could be broken, and she hoped that tomorrow would bring the beginning of justice for those she had left behind.
Emi remained still for a moment, her hand still gripping the Den Den Mushi. Sabo's voice, full of enthusiasm and familiarity, had rekindled a flood of memories, making her heart feel both heavy and warm. She thought back to the period in her life right after leaving the Times, a time marked by uncertainty and a deep questioning of her career and convictions.
It was during that time that she met Sabo. She had just started independent journalism, driven by a desire to reveal the truth without the chains of censorship or editorial corruption. Sabo, with his unwavering commitment to justice and his disdain for the government, had become an unexpected ally. He saw in her a flame similar to the one that fueled the Revolutionary Army—a burning desire to expose injustices and promote meaningful change.
During the three months they spent together, Sabo supported her without reservation, providing her with contacts, resources, and, most importantly, a new ethical framework in which to anchor her work. They had shared long discussions about the nature of justice, the responsibility of the media in society, and how a journalist could influence the global stage for the better.
However, despite their fruitful collaboration, Sabo, with his own missions and responsibilities within the Revolutionary Army, had battles to fight that went beyond Emi's scope. Her father, a respected figure at the Times, worked closely with government entities, tying him, whether he liked it or not, to the structures the Revolutionary Army fought against. Emi knew that openly joining Sabo and his comrades could potentially harm her father, compromising his position and safety.
Loyalty to her father and respect for his achievements had always kept her in a precarious balance. She wasn't ready to disappoint him or put him in a situation where he would have to answer for his daughter's actions. It was a line she couldn't afford to cross, despite the powerful pull of the ideals she shared with Sabo.
This tension between her personal convictions and her family obligations had been a constant source of inner conflict for Emi. She had chosen to become an independent journalist, focusing on investigations that could shed light on the same injustices Sabo fought against, without openly engaging in a struggle that would force her father to take a stand against her.
Now, as she recalled those moments, Emi felt a bittersweet melancholy. She was grateful for the impact Sabo had on her life and career, but she also felt the loneliness of her choice to continue alone. It reminded her of the complexity of human relationships, especially when they were woven around such fervent common causes.
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Thank you for reading this chapter ! See you soon for their next adventures ~