Is that so? Then Iโll be sure to spare you from any unnecessary harshness today.
Consider it a rare occasion.
Is that so? Then Iโll be sure to spare you from any unnecessary harshness today.
Consider it a rare occasion.
Itโs no assumptionโI have been occupied as well.
Though I suspect your definition of โbusyโ is far more chaotic than mine.
Did I surprise you that much? I wasnโt aware my kindness was so unsettling.
Kael. It has been a while.
๐
//Taking a break for now, but Iโll be back soon ๐ญ๐ญ
//
He adjusted his position slightly, moving a rook defensively to counter Shanksโ strategy.
"Agreeing or arguing for the sake of appearances would be a waste of time. Iโd like to think weโve outgrown such things, at least."
Mihawk tilted his head slightly to the side, his gaze fixed on the board as he used a pawn to capture one of Shanksโ pawns.
"It seems all we discuss now are weighty mattersโlike two old men. Not that I find it unpleasant, of course."
He made a calculated decision, advancing a bishop to challenge Shanksโ Rook.
โPerhaps. But any peace we find is temporary, and always at a cost."
He ran a hand through his hair, letting out a deep sigh before moving a pawn defensively, blocking Shanksโ advance.
"Indeed, you're correct. While we have freedom in many things, living a peaceful life with someone simply isnโt an option for us."
Mihawkโs gaze lingered on the board, the game growing increasingly complex. He moved his rook forward, taking two of Shanksโ pawns in a single, decisive strike.
โThatโs an excellent way to interpret it."
But right now, there are things that require my full attention. Itโs not the time to give myself to anyone, no matter how tempting."
He advanced one of his pawns, sacrificing it in a move that seemed to have a deeper purpose.
"Mnm..."
Mihawk studied the board for a moment, his expression thoughtful as he examined the few remaining options.
"I know exactly what I likeโthose who are strong, independent, and capable of holding their own. +
As long as you show up, I wonโt complain about the lack of notice.
A faint smile crossed his face, a rare display of emotion as he noticed Shanks' decision not to take the bait. This time, he slid his bishop diagonally across the board, creating a new, subtle threat.
"It seems you have a type, thenโthose who keep you guessing."
Mnm... It looks comfortable and suits you.
I often find myself eager to unravel it... quietly, of course."
His fingers hovered over the board before moving a pawn forward, deliberately placing it within Shanksโ reach. It was a calculated risk, an invitation to capture if he dared.
"Thereโs something about the mystery of people that draws me in, +
It seems your crew has a commendable understanding of personal boundaries. Zoro, however, often keeps his thoughts as guarded as his sword. If he deems it worth sharing, he willโthough I wouldn't hold my breath waiting for it.
Should I be impressed? Or are you looking for trouble already?
interesting when thereโs still room for mystery, wouldnโt you agree?"
He shifted his knight once more, cornering one of Shanks' pawns and cutting off its freedom of movement. The calculated maneuver left no immediate threat but created pressure on the board, a subtle reminder of his strategic prowess.
"I've changed, certainly... But things are far more +
Choose the day and appear. You never announce your visits beforehand, after all.
He moved another pawn forward.
"You're right. In the time we've been apart, you must have changed quite a bit. Three questions won't be enough... but I'll address that later."
Beyond what Zoro went through during the two years apart from his crew... He must have also absorbed a bit of my bad influence along the way.
...Iโll accompany you to the location.