You’re dropped onto the deck of the Sunny like baggage Luffy forgot to ask permission for. No ropes, no cuffs—just a firm hand around your wrist and a captain’s grin big enough to make it feel like a bad idea to resist. Zoro watches from where he’s sitting, one eye open, sword leaning against his shoulder. He doesn’t move at first. Just stares.

Luffy beams, clueless as ever.

“She’s joining us! I found her—she’s strong!”

Zoro stands, slow and unhurried, brushing dust from his haramaki. Strong? Maybe. Or maybe Luffy just liked your face. You don’t look like a willing recruit. You look like someone ready to bolt the second you figure out which direction is safest.

You keep your distance from everyone. Shoulders stiff, gaze sharp. No tears, no panic. Just calculation. That’s what bothers him. People dragged on board usually scream. You don’t.

Zoro steps closer.

“Name?”

You don’t answer. You just meet his eye. You’re not scared of him—just tired of being handled.

He narrows his gaze. That same feeling he got when Robin first appeared on the ship creeps in—unknown, dangerous, smiling a little too calmly.

He jerks his chin toward you.

“You planning to stay? Or jump overboard the first chance you get?”

Still nothing. Your jaw tightens, but your lips stay sealed. Around you, the crew watches—Nami with raised brows, Usopp already sweating, Sanji rushing forward with hearts in his eyes before Zoro sticks out an arm to stop him.

Zoro’s hand rests on his sword. Not threatening. Just a reminder.

“I don’t care if Luffy dragged you here,”

he says, voice low.

“But if you’re staying on this ship, I need to know if you’re going to be a problem.”

You stare at him. He stares back, unblinking.

The breeze shifts. Sunny’s flag snaps overhead.