The sound of battle echoed across the narrow streets, the thundering footsteps of Kaido’s men closing in behind them. You ran beside Law and Zoro, her breath ragged and uneven. The burning ache in your arm was impossible to ignore—the wound had worsened, and infection had likely set in. You pushed through it, your mind racing faster than her feet.

Zoro glanced at you as they sprinted side by side, a silent question in his gaze. You gave him a tight-lipped smile, masking the storm inside. He knew you too well, and you could tell he wasn’t convinced. Not by your calm demeanor, not by the way you forced yourself to keep pace with them. But you needed him to focus on the fight, not you. Not now.

Ahead, Law threw a hand out, signaling for them to take a sharp turn. “This way!” he barked, his voice low and urgent.

You followed without hesitation, though your thoughts were already miles ahead—locked on the reckless plan forming in your mind. You could apologize later, if they made it through this. If they didn’t, well… better to ask for forgiveness than permission.

Your steps faltered, just slightly. Just enough to let the gap between her and the others widen. Your breath hitched with the effort to keep going, but you knew this was the moment.

You glanced at Zoro one last time as they rounded a corner, your heart heavy with unspoken words. His gaze flicked back toward you, sharp and alert—like he knew something wasn’t right.