Happy New Years Everyone!
To start the new year we have the last of the flashback-centric chapters.
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1/1/2021
Chapter 10: Brook's Childhood: The Unsavory Man's Unbreakable Oath
Location: Crescend Major, Angus's house
Time: Afternoon
Current Year
Brook took a long deep breath as he surveyed the small opening. It was quite ridiculous how many slices of rock littered the 'yard.' He glanced over to the side, the opening in the trees that allowed the majority of the sun light through was smaller than Brook remembered. Angus wasn't there hacking the growing saplings anymore so no wonder the forest was growing back in. But if Brook stood right at the edge of the brush, he could still see through trees. Taking a moment to admire the island from above, Brook felt a little better. He had come up here so much either for training or just to spend time with Angus.
Reaching up, Brook gripped one of his boney arms. The cold wind blew through the skeleton and the trees making Brook shiver once again. Angus had died. Everybody does and Brook was left on his own to face the horrors of the world without his teacher's guidance. But even the lazy loathsome Unsavory Gentleman made sure Brook was as prepared as he could be.
~~BINK~*~SAKE~~
Location: Crescend Minor, Training ground
Time: Late Morning
75 years ago
Brook watched as Mulberry appeared practically out of thin air behind the wooden dummy that he had been in front of seconds before. Keeping his saber drawn, the Flowery Gentlemen took several steps before stopping. Bringing his sword parallel with the scabbard, Mulberry sheathed his sword with a snap. The wooden dummy sliced into several pieces before collapsing in a heap.
"Wow."
"It's a fairly simple technic once you understand it." Mulberry explained. "Speed and precision are the two key components to pulling it off successfully."
"Boring," Angus drawled from his lax position against a fallen seastone columns. A vein popped on Mulberry's forehead but the man managed to remain relatively calm.
"I'm teaching here Angus." He bit out. "Please keep your mouth shut! Now, Brook." Mulberry gestured to another wooden dummy. "Why don't you give it a try?"
The young teen nodded and took his place before the dummy. Brook took a deep breath. He needed to get stronger, strong enough that he'll be able to defend himself and his family. To do that, he had to train harder than ever before, and so he trained, continuously trying to perfect a traditional speed technique of the Royal Guard which was quite good in a pinch.
Angus watched from the sidelines, yelling an occasional insult to Mulberry about his teaching style. Dov had originally joined them on Minor to assist in Brook's training but he had been quickly distracted by Luan and Jean who were searching for seashells by the shore. Brook felt miserable. He was stuck between two opposing forces with no back up. But it gave more incentive to learn the technique, the sooner he did, the sooner he could get out of the crossfire between the two gentlemen. At least Luan was overcoming her fear of Minor after her trauma during the Waulfman tribe's invasion.
"Well done." Mulberry complimented after another attempt. "You're improving."
Brook paused to catch his breath. "Thank you."
Angus snorted. "What is this? Daycare? What are yah try'n tah teach 'im? The forms a slop, he needs tah be faster!"
"Excuse me, you oversized lazy ass! You did not hone your own speed so now it's all on me to teach your apprentice. I'm doing Brook favor since he has such an incompetent teacher!" Mulberry yelled.
Angus scoffed, "Yur teach'n wrong."
"If you find such a problem with Mulberry's teaching, I…" Brook gulped. "..would not mind you teaching, sir."
Angus shrugged carelessly. "Course I'd teach yah but I can't do it."
"You… can't…?"
"Angus is far too slow and way too much of blundering oaf to even do the technique." Dov explained with a chuckle as he and the others came over with armfuls of sea shells.
Angus glared at him, "Just a stupid flashy move." He snarled.
Dov just gave a teasing grin, knowing Angus was far too lazy to actually get up and harm him as long as Dov didn't push his luck too much.
"I know somethi'n better." Angus said.
"The Red Moon," Brook said.
Angus stared at his apprentice before saying, "Yeah. Yah see, you, Firecracker, Dingleberry, and the rest of the rat sack guard are good at dancing on your twiddle toes and spinning like a ballerina. I'm much manlier! If I get hit, I don't give an inch! YAHAHAHA!"
"Please, Angus. You're going to confuse them on the basic facts. Angus is the only one of the Royal Guard who specializes in strength." Mulberry explained.
Luan looked from her shell collection. "So that's why you sleep all the time, cause you really are too lazy and fat?"
"Fat?" Angus glared at the little girl but she was unfazed. "This here is all muscle." The Unsavory Gentleman patted his belly. "I like mah sleep and I'm gonna sleep when I wanna."
"You're making excuses." Luan accused.
Brook sighed, "Luan."
"Wha'd are yah imply'n, squirt?"
"You almost died when the enemy came and you dual Mulberry all the time but you never beat him. It's because he's faster than you so you can't catch him." Luan continued.
A vein popped on Angus's forehead.
"Luan… you're making him mad." Jean nervously pointed out.
"If I remember correctly…." He gritted out. "My 'duals' with dinglebutt are all draws." Angus stressed.
Luan frowned and shook her head viciously. "That's cause everybody stops you before you do too much damage but if they didn't then Mulberry would outlast you."
"Yah think so." Angus growled, eyeing Mulberry.
"I am not fighting you over a petty thing like this." Mulberry stated. He couldn't help but smile a little smugly.
Angus huffed and rose to his feet. "These twinkle wimps don't do shit for training like I train yah. Watch, I'll show yah whad mah "lazy arse's" been do'n." he boasted.
Angus strode over to an erect stone column that was slightly taller the man. He drew the Unsavory sword in his favored reversed grip. Taking a steady and anchored stance, the blade was place against the column. He drew in a deep breath.
Brook could have sworn the temperature dropped several degrees as Angus muttered.
"Watch Brook, dis is wha'd kind of power yur workin' fur."
Letting out a long and controlled growl, Angus pushed forward. The Unsavory sword sunk into the stone. The guardsmen, Brook, Luan, and Jean watched in shock as Angus shoved his way through the stone all under one long exhale. At the very end, Angus let go of his sword with his right hand.
"YAH!"
He did a palm strike right to the back of the column. The top piece of the stone, cracking from the raw force, flew off the bottom half. Brook and the others watched it fly through the air, spinning at blinding speeds, before crashing into a small fishing boat off the shores of the island. There was a mighty splash of seawater. Several fishermen were thrown into the air before hitting the sea again.
Mulberry's eyebrow twitched, "That imbecile."
Dov chuckled nervously.
"Yay!" Luan cheered.
"That was great!" Jean awed.
Brook's mouth hung open in shock at the raw power that his teacher possessed.
Angus rested the Unsavory sword on his shoulder. He looked at the stone column he had just cut then out to the sea where several black dots of human heads bobbled in the water, and then he looked back at where the top of the column should have been. Grinning, Angus couldn't help himself. He threw his head back and laughed.
"YAHAHAHAHAHA!"
~~BINK~*~SAKE~~
Location: Crescend Minor, Luan's house
Time: Afternoon
Current Year
"Shishishishi, I like this guy!" Luffy laughed.
"Was anyone hurt when the rock hit the boat?" Chopper asked.
Luan nodded. "Of course, but nobody died or was severely mangled."
"How comforting," Nami retorted.
"We later found out that he had cut seastone which made it all the more impressive. When the town was moved here, I made sure that column would be a historic monument." Luan smiled, reminiscing. "It's one of the few things left of Angus."
Sanji stayed quiet for now. His head was still stuck on the fact that Brook's teacher was a devil fruit user. The locals seem to prefer to call it a devil's gift. From what he gathered they had a bit of a religious hate towards the fruits. It was probably hard back then for a devil fruit user to live in a kingdom who was superstitious against them. Angus seemed to have kept it pretty secretive, even his onetime use was mostly overlooked.
Sanji guessed the smarter Strawhats caught that Angus had eaten a devil fruit, the Yomi-Yomi no Mi. Brook had originally given the impression that he had no real reason for eating a devil fruit but what Luan has told them, Sanji wondered if that was the case. Sanji could relate this to Luffy and the Mera-Mera no Mi. The Mera-Mera no Mi was one of the few things Luffy could remember Ace by. If Angus really left nothing behind then the same could be for Brook and the Yomi-Yomi no Mi.
"So what happened after?" Usopp asked.
"After?" Luan chuckled. "I have so many stories I could tell but I could sit here for weeks doing that." she relaxed back into her chair. "I just have to tell you the important bits."
~~BINK~*~SAKE~~
Location: Crescend Major, Angus's house
Time: Afternoon
Brook left Angus's house, not even bothering going inside. It was just an empty shack now. Instead, he took another trail that led him further and higher into the mountain's forest. His pace had slowed a bit so that he could prepare himself for what was ahead.
~~BINK~*~SAKE~~
Location: Crescend Major
Time: Early Morning
68 years ago
When she woke up, Luan always poked her head out her window, rain or shine. She loved the fresh crispy smell of a new day rejuvenating her. If she was lucky, Luan would receive a full blast from the infamous winds of Crescent Luna to shock her awake. After taking a minute to "wake up," she would get dressed and be out the door before sunrise. Taking her time to stroll down the quiet streets, Luan would hum to herself. Usually the tune would be from whatever composition Brook was currently learning.
Luan had tried so many times to convince Brook to compose his own music but he would smile at her and say. 'No Little Moon, it's not my place.' Luan found that to be a bunch of sea king poo. She often found Brook humming to himself a tune that she could not recognize and she knew her fair share. Brook's reasoning was that he was a royal guard first before he was a musician. He admitted that he still loved music but Brook said as long as he served the Queen, music would have to come second.
Luan arrived at the bakery a bit later than she expected to but the small shop was already lively. Always when Luan arrived, without fail, Myrtle would be there. The ovens would be roaring with heat and the fresh smell of bread pervaded the room. Myrtle's Bakery was always warm and busy. Luan honestly didn't know when that pudgy little woman ever rested. She was always baking and selling and then cleaning and then doing more baking.
"Good morning!" Luan called, entering the bakery.
Myrtle leveled the young woman with a glare, "Good morning my foot! You're late, young missy!"
"Sorry! I overslept." excused Luan.
Myrtle paused in her kneading. "You overslept?"
"Yeah,"
"Yes, what?"
"Yes ma'am!"
"I hired you to assist me so that I could get the big orders in the morning out of the way while you prepared the shop! So excuse my obviously misplaced assumption that you would be here. On. Time. Because your beauty sleep is far more important!"
Luan cringed.
"Get to work, those pastries won't bake themselves!" Myrtle ordered.
"Yes ma'am!" Luan exclaimed and quickly busied herself.
It wasn't too much later, the sun peeking over Crescend Minor, when Angus and Brook entered the bakery.
In the years that Luan had known him, Angus hadn't changed. He still looked like a middle-aged man but his white stubbed, bald head, and white eyebrows would always make him look older in her eyes.
Brook, on the other hand, had grown in many ways that were noticeable. Brook had shot up like a bean stalk as soon as he hit puberty, much to Jean's dismay. Pretty soon Brook towered over practically everyone on the island. His hair had expanded into a big knot of black curly hair. Due to Royal guard regulations, Brook kept his hair neatly tied in a bushy ponytail. Though it had been years since Brook received his uniform but it always made Luan happy and nervous. For Brook to become a Royal guard was a great honor and made her proud of her adopted brother but now Brook was obligated to fight in the war. The battle on Crescend Minor still haunted her nightmares. She was afraid for Brook whenever his squad engaged the enemy.
Brook smiled uncertainly and adjusted his glass. "Good morning Luan."
"Morn'in Mr. Brook! How did your meeting with the Queen go?" Luan asked.
"Darn toot'n fantastic!" Angus cut in with a laugh. "Yahaha!"
"That means your request was accepted, right?" Luan figured. "You're approved to join the Royal Armada?"
Brook nodded. "Yes... I…"
"Of course it was! He was trained by meh!" Angus stated.
"Is that brute out there!" Myrtle called, coming from the back of the bakery to the counter. She frowned. "What do you want?"
Angus grinned wider. "Fire up those ovens Myrtle! I've got ah tall order fur yah! WE'RE HAVING AH PARTY!"
Mrytle narrowed her eyes. "Oh? And who, pray tell, would go to your party?"
"Why in hell would I care about other people? Nah, it'll just be meh and Brook…" Angus paused in thought. "Maybe Short-stop and Firecracker Jr…"
"What about Dov and Mulberry?" Luan asked.
"Like hell I'd give meh booze tah Dingleberry." Angus scoffed.
"Be civilized in my shop!" Myrtle ordered. "What is the order?"
Angus pulled out a crumbled piece of paper and slapped it down on the counter. Myrtle looked apprehensive when she took and read it over.
"This is a tall order." She admitted. "You better have the coin to pay for this."
"Whad'yah take meh fur?" Angus said.
"A man-pig," Myrtle replied bluntly, accepting the coin bag that Angus handed her. She straightened herself out and said before returning to the back. "I'll get on it then."
Angus clapped his hands together. "Let's go Brook! We've got plenty of train'n tah do!" he grabbed Brook by his skinny arm and dragged him out of the shop, yelling. "I expect dat order done at 11'sharp."
"Don't rush my work!" Myrtle yelled from the back but the two men were long gone.
Now alone, Luan's smile dropped. She stood in a pensive silence for several minutes before sighing.
"I don't hear any work out of you!" Myrtle shouted causing Luan to jump into action.
Myrtle was relentless.
Angus marched with gusto, Brook followed a few steps behind. "Yahaha! Yah'll have a great time! Remember this is yur long term train'n! I expect yah tah come back a man worthy of the afro!"
Brook stopped walking. "Sir Angus… perhaps it would be wise if I declined."
Angus halted and glanced back at Brook. The man whacked Brook across the head with his sword. Brook flinched from the sudden pain.
"Whad'yah mean decline?! Yur go'in, and that's that!" Angus stated.
Brook frowned. "No."
"No?"
Brook nodded with reaffirmed confidence. "I do not wish to go. My duty is here, and this is where I belong. I will not be joining the Royal Armada."
"Yah ungrateful brat," Angus growled. "After all I've done fur yah! Yah want tah throw it all away."
"If I be so blunt, you've really just beaten on me all these years," said Brook.
"Yur gonna be a man of the afro! What's why yur going out to sea!" Angus rebuffed.
"What does the sea have to do with the mysterious power of the afro? What does it even mean to become a man of the afro? I see no logic in it." Brook admitted. "I am grateful for all that you've done for me but I am a man now and I must follow my own path. Good day, Sir Angus."
Brook bowed and walked passed Angus but the latter grabbed Brook's ponytail forcing him to stop.
"If yeh turn yur back now then we're done. Yur no longer mah apprentice."
Brook was silent.
"You'll be dead tah meh. I won't give yah mah guidance. You'll be on yur own, fur good." Angus warned.
Brook took a deep breath and said coolly. "I would like to politely ask you to release my hair, it hurts when you tug on it like so."
Angus frowned but before he could speak, a crash and harsh laughter caught their attention. The noise was coming from the tavern. A place Brook was now familiar with thanks to Angus. The older gentleman was now far more interested in the commotion in the tavern. He quickly strode into the tavern, Brook following.
It was a raggedy bunch of sailors partying brazenly in the tavern. Since the war had gotten worse, more unsavory sailors had found their way into their ports. Before the war, the Vienna Kingdom would think that such shady characters were too inferior to do any business with but now the kingdom needed all the trade opportunities it could get. Now with the war ending, all trade was needed to boost the kingdom's economy. That still didn't mean that the citizens had to like the uncouth sailors that visited their ports but they still had to show some form of hospitality.
Before Brook could stop him, Angus strode right on into the tavern and sat himself down at a next to a sailor at the counter. Brook pressed his lips into a thin line in irritation while his 'ex-master' drank heartedly. Various locals looked at Angus with distain.
"A bar's a good place tah stop especially after a long day's work." Angus remarked causally as he chugged down his drink.
The tipsy man next to him laughed. "You got that right! Seems like you're the only one of these chumps that gets it!" the man laughed harder.
Angus chuckled into his drink. "Suppose so. None of 'em got any balls," said Angus, subtly tilting his head towards Brook. Brook, on the other hand, had had enough. He stepped forward to speak but then the sailor laughed.
"I gotta say I didn't think to meet someone like you in a place like this!"
A thick, white eyebrow rose. "Like this?"
"This shitty kingdom! Everyone here is so high and mighty. I took a stroll around and people looked at me like I killed their brother and what's up with those freak ass winds!? Or those stupid trees? They might as well tip over! Not to mention how inconvenient this bloody place is! Ya'know, the blasted Navy should just make a huuuuge canon and blow away that other island and make a cove. Then this place would be a gre-!"
Without warning, Angus grabbed the back of the man's head and slammed it down into the counter. The wood cracked when the head hit before the body fell to the ground. The rest of the victims stood up violently, growling and grumbling at Angus like rabid animals.
Angus's 'drinking buddy' sat up, clutching his bump. "GET HIM!"
Those words set the men off like a starting gun in a race. Angus quietly readied himself until the first couple men were in range. With one swing, Angus knocked two men down into their comrades. Bystanders yelped in fright and ran for the door, trying to avoid flying bodies.
"Sir Angus! Stop!" Brook called, dodging a table that had been thrown. Seeing that no reasoning would reach his teacher, Brook turned his back and assisted a citizen outside.
Another man grabbed Angus from behind but the Unsavory Gentleman just flipped him right over and heaved the man up above his head before throwing him into the crowd. Angus flung a right hook and an uppercut sending men sprawling across the ground. The men kept charging and swinging their fist. Angus took some hits but none deterred the rhythm that Angus set into.
Through the whole fight, Angus did not say a word.
"You BASTARD!" The first man shouted and charged.
He didn't even get to try and punch. The man went rolling out of the tavern from the impact of Angus's attack. His men rolled out one after another forming a heap of battered bodies in the street.
There was an elapse of silence. A crowd had formed around the front of the tavern, keeping a safe distance from the men in a pile and the front of the tavern. No one dared to move to help the groaning men. Brook stood with the crowd, eyes on the tavern. The dimmer light in the tavern made the door look pitch black hole in the building. Brook didn't really understand why but cold air came pouring out of the tavern in a mist, creating a door to the underworld.
Then the devil himself stepped out from the shadows.
With deliberate steps, Angus approached the whimpering group. He sighed, releasing a puff of cold air. He raised his unsheathed sword high into the air.
The sailors screamed.
"OAF!"
Mulberry yelled as he dashed through the crowd placed himself between Angus and his down opponents. Mulberry was thrown to the ground from the force of Angus when the Flowery Gentlemen had tried to parry his attack.
"Sir Mulberry!" a bystander cried out.
Angus turned only to find himself at the tip of Brook's blade.
"Sir Angus, please stop this hostile attack." Brook stated calmly.
Angus made no movement to strike again neither did he sheath his sword. The crowd glared at him and muttered under their breaths in disapproval. Angus deliberate stepped towards Brook but the man held his ground. Angus took another step forward, a horrid menace in his face. Brook did not back down. The tip of Brook's saber pierced Angus's neck. A dribble of blood went down Angus's neck. Brook's heart pounded in his chest as the man wondered if his former teacher would skewer himself on his apprentice's blade. Angus took a step away and bent down to look at the frighten sailors.
"If yah don't like it, get lost," said Angus. Briefly sparing Brook a glance, he pushed his way through the crowd.
"What a despicable man." Someone muttered from the chattering crowd.
"Stupid ass town! You're all just a bunch of stupid snotty bastards! And you guys are useless! He was going to kill me! I hope the Empire slaughters all of you!" The 'drinking buddy' yelled in fury.
Mulberry strode over to the man and looked down at him coldly, "In the name of her Ladyship, I ask you to leave our island. You are no longer welcomed."
The man opened his mouth but realizing he was getting glares from the crowd, he conceded. The sailors picked themselves up and made their way to the port. With the conflict resolved, the citizens dispersed and went on as if nothing had happened.
Mulberry turned to the younger guard, "Sir Brook."
"If you would excuse me, Sir Mulberry, I should go after Sir Angus and make sure he doesn't cause any more damage." Brook bowed to Mulberry and ran off before the Flowery Gentleman could say anything else.
Angus was nowhere in sight. Brook walked through the streets, half-heartedly looking for Angus. The Unsavory Gentleman was not his responsibility.
Brook found Jean sitting on a low rock wall and contemplating silently. Jean looked up as Brook approached, "Oh Brook, good morning!"
Brook sighed, "Good morning."
Jean's eyebrow shot up. "That sounded like there's a story to be told with that sigh."
"I told Sir Angus that I would not be joining the Royal Armada," said Brook, not admitting to the fright the Unsavory Gentleman gave him.
"You said that to his face and you're still alive?" Jean said in surprised.
Brook nodded.
"Wow…" Jean frowned. "Why aren't you going?"
"What is the point? I love my island and my kingdom. I understand I can serve my kingdom out at sea but I prefer to be here."
"Not entirely interested in the sea, huh?" Jean looked towards Crescend Minor. "If you did go I think you would fall in love with it."
"You think so?" Brook said, amused.
Jean nodded. "Because I know you Brook."
"I suppose you do but not well enough. This island is teeming with life and music. What more could I want?" Brook pointed out.
"Angus thinks there's a lot more for you to learn." Jean refuted.
Brook scowled. "I am grateful that Sir Angus has taught me how to defend myself but he has done nothing else but push his ideals onto me,"
Jean looked at Brook in surprised before laughing, "I didn't expect something so spiteful to come rolling out of your mouth!"
Brook tried to find something to say to that but he had nothing.
Jean smiled. "I think Angus did a lot more than teach you how to fight." Brook was silent, pondering what Jean was thinking.
Jean stretched his limbs and hopped of the wall. "Besides, Angus came by a little a bit ago. I haven't seen him so merry since he drank three kegs of that top-brass whiskey. He told me to make sure my evening was free because we were going to have your sendoff party. I was kind of worried. His throat was bleeding! I thought something had happened to make him delusional. I guess he just got a bit rowdy at the tavern."
Brook furrowed his eyebrows. "He still thinks I'm going?"
"Well… yeah, wait, did something else happen?" Jean asked.
Brook avoided the question as well as looking Jean in the eyes. Brook looked out towards the sea and frowned when he saw dark clouds in the distance.
"That storm is approaching fast." Brook remarked.
Jean nodded, noting the change in the conversation, "Yeah, heard it was going to be a bad one. If it continues till tomorrow the boat for the Armada will probably be delayed."
"If it is going to be that bad, we should tell Mrs. Myrtle or her merchandise might get wet," said Brook.
"Really?"
"Yes, when she has a big order, Mrs. Myrtle completely ignores the world around or so I'm told." Brook replied.
"Alright, alright,"
The two friends made their way to Myrtle's bakery. Along the way, Jean noticed a crowd growing around the docks. Jean nudged Brook to get his attention. Brook sighed and changed his course.
The crowd was relatively silent expect for a layer of discontented murmurs. Being as tall as he was, Brook was able to see the center of the town folk's attention. He frowned when Brook saw that it was Angus.
The Unsavory Gentleman had his sword in one hand and a sack swung over his shoulder. With a light heave, he tossed the sack into a boat.
"Is… he leaving?" Brook questioned.
"He can't be serious! Somebody tell Angus that a storm's coming!" Jean shouted.
Jean's plea was ignored by the crowd while Angus tossed another sack into the boat. Jean turned to Brook expectantly but the taller man made no indication of interfering. The crowd parted like the sea against the rocks as a dignified figure strode through, flanked by two Royal Guards.
The whisper, "It's the queen," rippled by through the crowd.
Queen Liselle held herself as anyone one of noble blood should but Brook could hear the heaving in her breath and the suppressed rise and fall of her chest. Of course it would be Angus to rile up the Queen into such a state. Angus did not acknowledge the Queen's presence.
"Sir Angus,"
Angus ignored her.
"Sir Angus!" Queen Liselle stated firmly.
Angus paused and faced to the Queen.
"I will ask you one more time," The Queen stated. "Who do you serve!? Where do you loyalties lie!?"
"Not on this piece of rock," said Angus.
The crowd erupted in gasps and furious mummers.
"I gotta say I enjoyed mah time here until yah all became a bunch of pansies… nevah mind, that hasn't changed." Angus stepped into his boat.
"What you say is slander against her majesty, are you not a member of the royal guard!?" a bold citizen shouted.
"Yah must be new if yah don't know meh. I'm known as the Unsavory Gentleman! Named graciously by the citizens of Vienna!" Angus bowed mockingly. "And this unsavory gentleman is about tah deh the most courteous thin' evah!" Angus raised his head. "I'm gonna go get those meatheaded sailors."
"What the hell does he mean?!" Jean demanded.
"There were sailors who left recently, they'll hit the storm soon. I doubt their ship could survive this storm." Brook said.
"Then we have to go get them!" Jean stated.
"They have offended the crown and this island. They abused our hospitality while they were here, they will get no more."
"Brook –"
"They chose to go out ignoring our warnings. Their fate was created by their own hands."
"You've got to be kidding me."
"Besides the storm has advanced too far, we would likely lose our own lives."
"Brook do you even hear yourself? Don't you realize how cruel the sea can be?!" Jean exclaimed.
"It is the same sea you claim to love." Brook shot back.
"Yes," Jean said firmly.
"No one is allowed to leave this port. It is for the safety of all citizens of Crescent Luna." A guard reasoned with Angus.
Angus grinned. "Too bad I ain't ah citizen, remember? Just a brat from the Waulfman tribe." Angus released the boat from the dock and pushed away.
"Sir Angus! Heed my orders!" Queen Liselle called.
"What? Ah can't 'ear yah ovah this wind!" Angus shouted back, using the wind to pick up speed.
Rain dropped from the dark sky, scattering the crowd. The two guards coaxed the Queen away from the docks and back to the carriage. Brook watched as Angus's boat cut throw the waves on the lake. The wind howled in what seemed like an attempt to push the boat over. Somehow the boat made its way across the lake and disappeared through the rocky cliffs. Brook turned to leave. Jean stood there helplessly watching Brook leave.
"He can't swim." Jean voiced.
Brook glanced back at his friend. "I know."
Jean continued. "He's a scary bastard but I think you're wrong. I think he did a lot for you. If that scar on his chest isn't proof enough, then I don't know what is. I know you're about you're Royal Guard etiquette code and I bet mouthing off to the Queen isn't good but don't you owe him one?"
"You think I should go after him just because I "owe him one?"" said Brook.
"Yeah, sounds about right. No matter how mad you are at him, can you're gentlemanly honor take a debt like this?"
"You're trying to provoke me,"
"So? Does it make you mad enough to go?"
"No."
Jean frowned. "Is it better just to let him die because of an argument? I can't even count the number of times you guys differ in opinion but he was still your teacher."
Brook sighed. "... I would be shipwrecked before I even left the lake."
"I volunteer to be your sailor!" Jean yelled, throwing his hand into the air.
After a long moment of mental deliberation, Brook walked over to the carriage. "My Lady,"
The small window slid open, revealing the stern face of the Queen. "What is it, Sir Brook?"
Brook bowed his head. "With your permission, I would like to take a small vessel out to retrieve Sir Angus, he is an important asset to this kingdom and it would be foolish to lose him."
Queen Liselle pinched the bridge of her nose. "I cannot risk losing any more guards, especially to this ridiculous situation."
"If I may, my Queen, Sir Angus is my teacher and he has saved my life. As a Royal Guard, I cannot serve you honorably without repaying that debt."
The Queen sighed as a mournful and resigned expression over to her features. "You may go."
"Thank you, my Queen," Brook bowed and walked back to the dock where Jean was waiting.
"We good?" Jean asked.
"Yes, the Queen has given us her grace."
"Just say we're good."
"Are we prepared to sail?" Brook asked.
"Almost, hop on."
The journey across the lake wasn't has dramatic as Brook had though it would have been. The waves were choppy as from the the storm but not enough to risk overturning their vessel. As soon as they passed through the crevice passage, there was nothing left to protect them from the storm that raged across the ocean. Brook clung to the rope that Jean shouted at him to secure. The jagged rope bit into Brook's palms as he gritted his teeth. How drastic the intensity to the storm changed from leaving the safety of the lake.
"How will we find Angus in this!?" Brook yelled over the howling winds.
"A sailor's gut!" Jean shouted.
The boat lurched, nearly sending Brook over the edge if he had not clung to the rail.
"Jean, please don't joke with me!"
Jean grinned from ear to ear as the rain pelted down, "The ship would have been heading for Mayflower Island next so I can guess where they'll be."
"GUESS?!"
"Trust the Great Jean Clark!" said Jean, veering the boat sharply.
Brook groaned from the rolling black waves as they shook the ship back and forth. The wind blew straight Brook, making him lose feeling in his limbs. The ocean was merciless as it tried to topple their little boat.
"I think I'm going be sick."
~~BINK~*~SAKE~~
Location: Waters beyond Crescent Luna
Time: Late-morning
Angus wasn't a sailor. He had only been out in the ocean a handful of times and his knowledge was limited about sailing but Angus knew Crescent Luna. He knew all the islands in the Vienna Kingdom by name and their potential to benefit the kingdom. He knew about all the surrounding islands that were not part of the kingdom and which ones were a threat. He knew about the weather phenomenon that occurred year round and he knew the sea. Most importantly he knew what would happen to a ship if it was caught in a summer storm when the Marian Undercurrent was the strongest.
Angus sailed directly for a shoal that was notorious for sinking ships and as he expected, the sailor's ship was stuck on the submerged ridge. A large gash, that was likely made when the ship was thrown into the shoal by the storm, allowed the sea water to pour into the hull of the ship. Angus figured they didn't have too much longer.
With the grace of a toddler, Angus pulled the boat right long the bigger ship. From where he was, Angus could hear frantic shouting. With a halfhearted toss, Angus secured a grapple to the ship and hauled himself. Planting his boots on the deck Angus assessed the chaotic situation. The sailors were busy trying to save a literal sinking ship that they didn't notice their number increased by one.
Angus's eyes trailed up the main mast. A ragged black jolly roger whipped viciously from the storm winds, betraying that these men were not just mere sailors.
"OI, YAH DARN PIRATES!" Angus bellowed. His voice rang through the chaos. The men stopped and stared, most instantly recognizing him judging by the fear and distain they showed.
The man that drank with Angus pushed his way through the sopping wet crowd until he was in front.
He eyed Angus cautiously, "What the hell are you doing here?"
"Judge'n by dat stupid hat, I'd say yur de captain." Angus remarked.
"Why are you here?" the captain demanded again.
"I came tuh save yur sorry urchin arses." Angus said, jerking his thumb behind him. "I got a function'n boat tuh get yah out of here. If yah don't want tuh die, then yah can come with meh."
The captain's lips twisted up into a wide vicious grin. "Only a fool won't grasp at that opportunity but…" The captain glanced back at his men. The crew adorned the same grin as their captain and chuckled under their breaths, "Doesn't mean we have to sail with you, fatty."
A vein popped on Agnus's forehead. "Whad?"
"By all means, take that very personally." Said the captain, "My men and I are still sore about how we were treated at that backwater island and it's because of you that our ship is sinking. So stay still while we kill you."
The captain drew his sword. The men cheered and ran at Angus, armed to the teeth with weapons. Angus held up his sword and drew it from its wooden scabbard. A gust of cold wind was created from the release, pushing the men back.
"What the hell is wrong with guy?" one pirate asked.
"It doesn't matter, get him!" Another pirate yelled and charged at Angus. Angus raised his wooden scabbard and smacked the man across the boat as if he was a fly. His opponent went straight through the cabin wall, the other men hesitant from the shock of seeing the strength of their opponent.
"I tried tuh do de right thing," Angus said with a shrug. "But if yah want tuh kill meh so much, I won't complain."
"KILL THAT BASTARD IF YOU WANT TO LIVE!" The captain ordered. Before the men could gather their courage again, Angus was upon them. With another whack from his scabbard, he sent several men into the secondary mast. The wood cracked and splintered as the mast toppled over.
"He's a beast."
Angus grinned as he approached the remaining men, "Next."
"WE HAVE NUMBERS! OVERWHELM HIM!" The captain shouted.
"RAHHHHH!"
Angus blocked and dodged through the pirates' attacks but he couldn't avoid all of them. Several pirates were fortunate enough to cut Angus across his body before they were struck down. Angus gritted his teeth as an arrow embedded itself into his shoulder. Throwing his scabbard into somebody's head, Angus ripped the arrow out and jammed it into a pirate's cheek. The pirate howled in pain before being decapitated.
The pirates continued to make shallow cuts as Angus hacked down anyone who dared to get too close. Angus ran the Unsavory sword through a man and tossed him into a group. The men fell over, revealing a cannon behind them. The cannonball burst out and buried itself in Angus's gut. Angus's feet slid across the wet deck as he hunched over.
"He's still standing?!"
The captain grinned, "I guess that fat is useful for something."
Angus sucked in a gasp of air. "Yahahaha"
His laugh started at a low rumble quickly growing in like a thunderstorm.
"What the hell?" the captain grumbled. The men felt uneasy as the rain pelted their skin like needles of ice. Fog encased the deck, pouring out into the churning black sea.
Angus stalked forward. "YAHAHAAHA, WHA'D YAH THINK WOULD HAPPPEN!? DID YAH THINK I'D BE BLOW APART!?"
Tapping the frost off his sword, Angus slashed the closest man down and pointed his sword at the captain.
"Yah teh much of ah wimp teh face meh?"
"Monster,"
"Wrong, yah picked ah fight with a Royal guard." The captain brought his sword up and blocked an attack from Angus.
"Like hell you are, all those guards are pushovers! So who the hell are you?!" the captain demanded.
"De shitty one!" Angus flipped his sword out of his reversed grip and sliced down the captain's cheek, causing the man to stumble back. "I'll get yur eye next time," Angus promised. Angus frowned and titled his head. He was sure he heard someone call his name over the lulling wind.
"SIR ANGUS!" Brook's voice rang off the waves, closer and louder than before. Angus peered over the edge. Jean tried to steady the small boat as he pushed it close to the pirate ship.
"YAHAHA! Wha'd the hell are yah do'n?" Angus yelled down, kicking a pirate who got too close.
"Sir Angus, I order you to abandon that ship!" Brook shouted.
"Yah, yah, I get it." Angus refuted before turning to face his foe, running straight into the captain's sword.
"You shouldn't take your eyes off your enemy," said the captain, digging the sword deeper into Angus's gut.
"Don't patronize meh," Angus growled, punching the captain across the deck. The captain smashed into and broke several crates. Groaning, the man sat up. Angus stalked towards him, pulling the blade from him, uncaring of how much blood spilled from the wounds. "I'm gonna take yur eye now."
"Grr," The captain threw a broken plank which Angus cut in half but that gave the captain to run past him. "MEN TAKE THEIR BOATS! KILL WHOEVER'S ON THEM!"
Jean frowned when more men appeared at the edge of the ship. "This doesn't look- ACK!" He ducked for cover when several arrows buried themselves into the ships wheel. Brook drew his sword as the first raging men jumped down to board the ship. With several slashes and a kick he sent them into the water. He could see more men readying themselves to jump.
"This is not good."
Upon the deck, Angus scratched his wound and observed the scurrying men. He grabbed two crates and tossed them. Some of the stragglers froze to watch the crates go over their head over ships side.
"WATCH OUT!" Jean cried, turning the wheel.
The crates barely missed the small boat as they plunged into the water. The waves rocked the boat, pushing it away from the ship. Brook clung to the mast as he watched more crates followed in succession, the waves they created pushed their small craft further away. Several crates hit Angus's vessel, the deck splintered from the force. The pirates hesitated, realizing that their getaway was too far out for them to reach.
"YAHAHAA!"
Reluctantly, the men turned towards the noise. Angus had made his way up the mast during all the commotion, he grinned menacingly down at the pirates.
From his angle, Brook could see Angus standing on the mast, using the black flag for balance. "Sir… Angus…"
"Yur all mine now," said Angus, tracing a half circle in the air.
"Sheathing style….." Angus flicked his grip back into reverse grip as he allowed himself to fall of the mast. Even now, as a Royal guard, Brook could not see Angus's attack until the man sheathed his sword.
"BLOOD MOON!"
A massive circle was suddenly etched into the deck.
The pirates didn't even have a chance to wonder about the attack because once Angus hit the center of the circle, the deck was pushed through the ship and into the keel. The ship snapped in half like a toothpick. The men screamed as they fell into the rampant sea. Jean and Brook clung to their boat as the shock wave from the attack pounded on the boat. Once the shock waves passed, Brook was at the side of the deck.
"ANGUS!"
"YAHAHA!" Brook spotted Angus on some wreckage that had not yet sunken. "Come pick me up already!"
"Unbelievable." Brook muttered.
Jean let his back hit the wheel so he could sink down to the floor. "Is it over now?"
Before his life line completely sunk, Angus hopped onto a cabinet as it floated by. "Let's celebrate with bosners!"
"Do you realize how much trouble you are in!?" Brook shouted.
"A SHIT TON I BET! YAHAH!" Angus laughed, hopping to the next wreckage. The ocean churned, water rose up and swallowed the wreckage and Angus.
"ANGUS!"
When the Unsavory man's head did not resurface with the wreckage, Brook dove into the water, ignoring Jean's calls. The ocean was frigid and quiet, a stark contrast to the howling winds and chaotic waves above. Brook heard nothing but he didn't care. What matter was that he could see. He could see through the equipment and the rigging was Angus, sinking into the blackness below.
Brook frantically swam after him. Why did he have to fall into the ocean of all places? Brook cursed whatever thought had crossed Angus's mind when the man decided to eat a devil's gift. It didn't matter, Brook would scold him later. He knew he could reach Angus. Brook was stronger than when he was a boy who blubbered around trying to save his master from drowning. He could swim faster, hold his breath longer and he could pull his teacher back to the surface. Brook could save him, he had to save him.
Brook reached his hand out towards his teacher who only seemed to be farther from his grasp. The darkness began to swallow Brook as well, crushing him with quiet weight and freezing him thoroughly making his arms sluggish with each stroke.
Angus lulled his head and looked at Brook coming to his rescue. Weakly, Angus's hand ghosted over his wounds which had only gotten larger from throwing the crates and destroying the ship. Angus gripped his sword's hilt tighter as he forced his muscles to work. Angus grinned as the rest of his air escaped through his lips. Brook's panic gave away a moment's hesitation which Angus took that chance to launch his sword through the water. Brook's eyes widened as the hilt hit his stomach, propelling Brook to the surface as the man watched helplessly as Angus was sank further into the darkness.
The surface of the ocean shattered and spewed as Brook was tossed into the air. Gravity grabbed him and pulled him back into the water. Brook cringed from the pain in his gut and the salt water in his mouth as he gasped for breath. Clearing his lungs, Brook dove back under the surface but he could see Angus, just darkness. Thick arms wrapped around his waist, dragging him away from the darkness. Brook flailed his limbs, he gasped and sputtered while whoever was behind him tried to keep him above the water.
"STOP STRUGGLING!" Jean shouted. Keeping one arm securely wrapped around Brook, he used his other to get them back to the ship. Grunting, Jean tossed Angus's sword onto the ship before climbing in himself.
Brook struggled to get his bearings, stumbling to his feet. Jean was suddenly in front of him, pushing him back down.
"Don't go getting ideas." Jean warned.
"Angus CANNOT swim! I have to go get him! I – "
"IT'S TOO LATE!" Jean shouted grabbing Brook's cravat. "ANGUS IS GONE! THE SEA TOOK HIM!"
Brook stared back at Jean is disbelief and went limp in the man's arms.
"Impossible, Angus…" muttered Brook. His body shudder violently, he couldn't even tell if it was because of the cold. "… he wouldn't die because of a storm."
Jean clenched his fist around the Unsavory sword and wiped the water from his eyes before he took the helm again.
~~BINK~*~SAKE~~
Location: Crescend Minor, Luan's house
Time: Afternoon
Current Year
"That was the last time anyone saw Angus," said Luan. "No one knows exactly why Angus decided to abandon his post as a royal guard that day and we were never able to ask him."
"Do you think Brook could've reached Angus?" Nami asked.
Luan sighed. "… I believe that Brook could have reached him but Jean thinks that Angus had lost a lot of blood during his battle. Maybe Angus thought that a dying man would be dead weight for two men struggling to get through a storm but Brook said that Angus had made an oath and he wouldn't recklessly throw his life away on a chance he'll die."
"What was the vow?" Chopper asked.
"To be honest, I'm not really sure. I don't think even Brook knows. We all just assumed it was to the Queen and the Vienna Kingdom since he never wanted to go to other islands to fight. It just seemed like he wanted to stay close and protect the Queen but on the day that he died he outright disobeyed her… I'm still not sure what to think." said Luan.
"What about Brook?" Luffy asked.
The expression Luan made was heartbreaking, "He left with the Battle Armada the next day without saying a word. I didn't see him again for three years."
~~BINK~*~SAKE~~
Location: In the sea near Crescent Luna
Time: Late-morning
65 years ago
"Young Prince Alto," said Brook, bowing gracefully to the boy after he had boarded the ship.
"You're Brook, the Humming Gentleman, it's a pleasure to meet you." The prince greeted. "Um… where is the rest of the Armada?"
"Forgive me your highness, the Armada was called to aid our allies in a battle to the north. I came with this ship to ensure your safe return to Crescent Luna." Brook explained.
"Oh," Alto smiled. "Okay, when are we going to set off?"
"The navigator has already set our course." said Brook.
"That's good," Alto slumped against the railing, "How long until we arrive?"
"A few hours at most, your highness," Brook replied, noting the fog slowly rolling in.
Alto's smile grew.
"Are you excited to return?"
Alto nodded. "Yeah. I've been away for a couple of months, attending balls and celebrations to show good faith to our neighbors but I miss home so much… how long have you been away?"
"Must be close to three years now,"
"That long? Don't you get homesick?"
Brook joined the prince at the railing and said gravelly, "I haven't thought about it at all so I haven't gotten homesick."
Alto didn't pick on Brook's somber tone and continued, "But you have friends and family, right? Don't you miss them?"
"… Yes, I suppose I do,"
"Suppose? Shouldn't you know?"
Brook smiled but it didn't widen far, "I haven't thought about home. I focused my mind on my music and the sea while I served my fair Queen. The only kind of ailment I have suffered was sea sickness!"
The prince snickered.
"Would you like to listen to a merry sailor song?"
"You're a great musician, how could I say no!" the young prince said with excitement.
Brook retrieved his violin and promptly played a tune he had learned while out at sea. It was simple enough but had a jovial, uplifting effect on those who listened. Brook hoped this would keep the prince's mind off Crescent Luna and he hoped it would do the same for him. Brook closed his eyes, listening to the hearty notes. A slight disturbance was all Brook needed to hear in the verse to drop the violin and pull the boy away from the rail. A moment later a cannon ball shattered the wood where the young prince once stood.
A far off voice yelled, "PIRATES!"
Appearing from the fog, a ship rammed into it unsuspecting target. Brook firmly held onto the prince, keeping him from falling overboard. With a roar, pirates boarded the military ship.
"Find cover, your highness!" Brook ordered, drawing his sword and clashing with a bold pirate before he struck him down.
"SIR BROOK!" Alto shouted when a pirate from behind grabbed the prince and dragged him towards the enemy ship.
Brook moved to strike but a flock of grunts got in his way. Speeding up, Brook disappeared from sight before reappearing behind the pirate at a walk. Brook sheathed his sword and the delayed reaction caught up to the present. The pirates screamed and fell soaked in their blood. Brook made no heed and hopped onto the enemy ship. There were fewer opponents on the enemy ship but they got in his way none the less. In the distant he could hear men shouting for a retreat but he wasn't sure which side.
Since the prince wasn't on the deck and Brook could hear muffled struggling beneath his feet, Brook decided to try his luck down below. The hull smelled terrible and was poorly lighted but Brook instantly spotted the prince flailing on the floor while two pirates tried to restrain him. Only one of the pirates was quick enough to deflect Brook's sudden attack.
"Sir Brook," said Alto when Brook pulled him to his feet, keeping his body between the prince and the pirate. The boy shook as he looked at the lifeless body of the man that dragged him down here.
Brook pushed the boy further behind him and away from the gruesome sight. "Your highness, please stay back."
"So it is the prince of Vienna. After seeing how gangly that brat was, I thought we were set up." The pirate chuckled, pointing both his swords at Brook. "Don't mind me but I'm gonna kill you and take the boy."
"Sorry, but I will not allow that to happen. Your highness, go back to the ship."
"But…"
"I'll follow you after I deal with this filth," Brook swore, nudging the boy. Alto sprinted up the steps.
"Where do you think you're going!?" The man charged forward but Brook intercepted him, forcing the pirate back. "Ooh? I'm gonna skin yah!"
The pirate's cutlasses crashed against Brook's thin saber. The man was fast and powerful. Both of his swords only added to the danger this man presented but what he made up for in power, he lacked in coordination. Brook gracefully dodged the raging swings, striking only when he thought there was an opening but the pirate's defense was good as well.
Their fight drove them deeper and deeper into the ship, the whole hull was their battleground. Brook managed to corner the man but in a split second, the pirate kicked a lantern off its post. Brook flinched when the hot oil splattered on his skin. His hesitation gave the pirate more room to move, putting Brook on the defensive. Smoke filled the room, adding only to the heat of the battle. The pirate ignored the burning sacks and crates, solely focused on killing Brook. Brook on the other hand did not want to be burned alive. He hopped over one of the building fires.
With a shout, the pirate jumped after him. Brook struck the man midair where he couldn't dodge. The pirate coughed blood which sprinkled on to the gentleman's glasses. Brook pushed the pirate off his sword. The fire crackled and curled when the body was added to its fuel. Grimacing at the sight, Brook turned his attention to finding a path through the growing labyrinth of flames. He had to leave before the fire decided to swallow him as well.
Fear raced through Brook when a flame licked a wooden crate labeled for explosives.
The young Prince of Vienna and a handful of the kingdom's navy watched in horror as the enemy ship explode into a tornado of ash and fire.
~~BINK~*~SAKE~~
Location: Crescend Major, Myrtle's Bakery
Time: Afternoon
65 years ago
Jean brought her the news, bursting into the bakery, panting heavily. "Brook's back but his ship–!"
Luan hopped over the counter and took off like an antelope. She didn't hear Myrtle demanding what was going on or Jeans shouts to slow down. At the docks, the crew was unloading the supplies that had not been damaged. Healers were attending to the wounded and a Royal guard questioned the ship's captain. The Queen, flanked by guards, was embracing her young child, muttering softly into his ears while he refused to uncover his face from her robes.
All of this was happening around Luan but she didn't care about any of it. She wanted to see a bushy ponytailed gentleman come off that ship so she could give him a piece of her mind. How dare he leave and not say a word? She may be a lady but she was going to rip that idiot brother of hers a new one.
"Where's Brook?" Luan asked a crewmate who had departed from the ship. He looked at her for moment before walking away.
Huffing, Luan continued to inquiring around the docks but people just continued their tasks and avoided eye contact. A pit of denial was growing in her stomach when Jean came over to her with a defeated look.
"I overheard the guard interrogating the captain, they were attacked by pirates that were probably hired by another kingdom to get leverage over our Queen," said Jean.
"Not everybody likes the peace agreement we signed to end the Gentle War, so what of it? Where's Brook? Don't tell me he went to make friends with the pirate's boss. Sing a merry tune or two to avoid coming home. UGH! When I get my hands on him- …. What?"
"The prince was taken to the pirate's ship. Brook went and got him but… the pirate ship… exploded…" Jean managed to say.
Luan stared at him. "That's wrong, he escaped into the sea."
"Luan, Brook is human, it's unlikely that he-"
"Don't you dare say it!" Luan shouted.
"Luan,"
"Shut up, Sunkiss!"
A blue firework exploded in the air catching everyone's attention. The sparks poured down over Crescend Minor.
"That was-"
"Brook!" Luan shouted, running for Jean's boat.
"Sir Redman, go investigate." The Queen ordered.
The Royal guard bowed with a 'yes my lady,' and joined Jean at his boat. "Do you mind for an extra passenger?"
"Not at all," said Jean.
It took some time to get across the lake and go up the hill. Every minute seemed like an hour to Luan. The Royal guard had to individually transport Luan and Jean down the boulder slope to save time. Sir Redman told Luan to wait for them while he went to retrieve Jean at the top. Luan didn't listen. She ran towards the sea, searching for whoever shot off the distress signal.
Just like all those years ago when she found Jean washed ashore, Brook's battered and scorched body laid out on the sand, the tide nearly touching his lips as it advanced. His arm was stretched upward, to avoid the spent firework from getting wet. Dread gripped Luan's heart like an icy grip.
"BROOK!" She raced to her brother's side, turning him over and pulling his head out of the water and into her lap.
"Brook!"
How lifeless his expression was. Cracked blue lips parted slightly, allowing him to breathe shallow breaths. Blood and burns splattered his skin like an impressionist's painting. Luan's tears meddling with the drying blood.
"You jerk, you stupid, stupid jerk." Luan sobbed. "You're under Luan Law, got that? That's what you get for leaving me."
Carefully, Luan pulled a piece of Brook's glasses buried in his cheek.
Brook scrunched his eyebrows in pain, "…w-ho…?"
"Shut up you freakishly tall asshole,"
Brook was silent, focusing on breathing and taking in his surroundings without once opening his eyes. His voice cracked, "L-uan?"
"Yeah, it's me."
"I afraid I couldn't get my hands up in…time…"
Luan glanced down at the half chard sleeves.
"I told you to shut up."
"I – thought I told you- that- vul-garities is un-becoming of – a lady," Brook breathed out.
Luan smiled through a choking breath. "You weren't around to keep me on the straight-and-narrow, Mister Brook,"
"A failure on my part- li- little-moo-n" Brook mumbled softly.
"LUAN! BROOK!" Jean shouted, running to his friends. He paused briefly at Brook's state and the glare from Luan daring him to saying something. The Royal guard passed Jean and took in Brook condition.
"Mr. Clark, go back and inform the healers that we have an injured guard here. This man has survived both an explosion and the sea. He should not die after his valiant effort to live." Redman ordered, kneeling down to preform first aid, covering the shredded area of Brook's eyes with a handkerchief.
~~BINK~*~SAKE~~
Location: Crescend Minor, Luan's house
Time: Late afternoon
Current Year
"Brook made a successful recovery, but his eyes were far too damaged to be saved," said Luan. "He was honorable discharged from the Royal Guard after he recovered."
"So he saves the brat, costing him his eyesight and they boot him to the curve," Zoro summarized.
"Our Queen would not let Brook suffer any more than he had while being charged with protecting the Royal family." Luan replied. "And Brook lived comfortably after his discharge. For a while, he seemed content. He was able to focus on his music like he always wanted to…. But after a couple of months, he got restless."
~~BINK~*~SAKE~~
Location: Crescend Major
Time: Late afternoon
65 years ago
If there wasn't a lot to do or their parents would tell them to play elsewhere, the children of Crescent Luna would head to the western plaza near midday. They would splash in fountain and play with marbles, anything to pass the time while they wait. A cane tapping on stone would signal his arrival, accompanied by humming.
The children would gather around the fountain as he sat on the stone bench riddled with scars from its previous occupant. The purple cane would be discarded and a violin would take its place. Then their private spring festival would begin. The children would squeal and run around, listening to the upbeat music that danced around the plaza. The man would smile silently so that he could listen to every small noise around him.
When the man first started to come to the place, the children were filled with apprehensive curiosity to who would dare intrude on their territory or sit on the forbidden seat. That same man who would trip over a rock his cane did not detect but wouldn't be bothered by the mistake, chuckling to himself before going on his way. The man who would hum to himself like an old coot completely immersed in his own world. Messing with the humming gentleman became a game to the children.
First, they tried to move his cane to watch him fumble around while searching for it. Whenever they got close, he would turn, smile and ask them how their day was. The children tried to get craftier, working together to distract the man in order to get the cane but he always seemed to know where they were. One boy practiced holding his breath so he could swim across the fountain. He was the closest but when the cane was inches from his fingers, the man picked up his cane and asked him how the water was. Some of the brazen ones tested the man's senses by tossing rocks at him. The first stone had hit the man's shin, startling him. That was the only stone that ever hit its target. Grudgingly, respect for the tall afro man who could avoid all their "tests," slowly grew. One day, the man brought his violin and the children opted to dance since then.
Occasionally, adults would come and chat with the man. The humming man would smile and mostly listen. Often a short woman or a man with hair like straw would come and the humming gentleman would leave with them for the day.
Today was one of those days.
"Mister Brook!" Luan called, Brook smiled, putting down his violin to listening to Luan's approach. By the pace, he assumed she was running.
"Good afternoon Luan," Brook greeted. "What's the rush?"
"I got today off!" Luan cheered.
"Shall we go on a stroll then?" Brook offered.
"Actually, I'm going to go meet with someone," said Luan, her voice raised an octave higher.
"Which boy has caught your fancy?" Brook asked.
Luan huffed in annoyance. "Boy!? Just so you know he's a ma-" Brook chuckled when Luan tried to catch herself. "I – I just wanted to see you before I go meet… that person."
"Pray tell, who is that person?"
"... Anthony"
"…Anthony... The boy who spilt juice on your dress and called you stupid because you wanted to dance?"
"He's mature now!"
"I should hope so. Don't forget to bring him by your house. Your father must see what kind of man he is."
"Don't be such a stickler."
"It's tradition that the courter goes to the head of the house first." Brook said.
"Or what? You're going to arrest him?" Luan replied sarcastically. "Have a fun time finding him."
"Don't underestimate a blind man."
"I'll keep that in mind but really you should just relax." Luan said.
Brook frowned. "I don't fully understand what you mean."
Luan plopped down next to Brook. Her finger traced over the cuts in the stone that Unsavory gentleman had left. "You can live comfortably for the rest of your life. The war is over, our kingdom will prosper again, and you can just play your violin to your heart's content. You're pretty lucky, all play and no work. What's even better is that I can see you all the time now."
Brook smiled softly and leaned back against the stone. "Too be honest, I'm feeling a bit like a restless spirit. After the rage of battle and the fast paced life of a Royal guard, just lounging around the city seems wrong like drum sticks playing the harp."
"You've always wanted more time to devote to your music," Luan pointed out.
"True but traveling with the Armada allowed me to experience new places and sounds. Did I tell you about the island that sang through tubes in the ground?" Brook asked.
"Multiple times, so you want to travel again? You can't even…" Luan trailed off.
"I cannot see but there are plenty of sounds I have not heard nor music have I played." Brook replied.
"Then I'll bring some new music sheets for you when I trade with the next ship." Luan offered, standing up.
"How I love the the smell of inked notes upon crisp paper! However, Miss Luan, I cannot read for I am blind!" Brook replied cheerfully.
Luan stormed off, yelling. "You know what I mean! If you're going to be like this then I won't bother!"
Brook listened to her fading footsteps before departing himself. Humming as he went, the sounds of the bustling street mixed with the notes. The hiss of steam, chattering ladies, and the rustle of expensive clothing, Brook could paint a picture of Crescent Luna from the sounds that reached his ear. But there was a sound that was missing. One Brook hadn't heard for years, the boom from the drums that interrupt the harmony of gentle voices, the hearty laughter in a place of refined singing.
With a bang and a sizzle, smoke filled Brook's nostrils. His hand went to the handle of his cane but he paused when he recognized the congested cough.
"Are you alright, Jean?"
"Yeah, sort of," Jean coughed once more. "When did you get here?"
"I just arrived… I'm in the park, correct?"
"Right on the nose,"
"From that explosion, what was damaged?" Brook asked, hearing a faint sizzle and pop.
"Me…. my pride… OH CRAP! Tree on fire!"
"Let me help."
"I GOT IT! I don't want to get you burned!" Jean fumbled out of his jacket. The soft thuds of the jacket hitting the tree eventually subdued the growing flames. Jean sighed in relief, signaling that his task was done, "That was close."
"You should really think about making a place for you work instead of causing property damage every time you experiment." Brook suggested. He brushed his fingers against the still cooling wood.
Brook could hear Jean scratch his chin while he contemplated. "Where? My room would get blown to smithereens. My landlord would have a conniption."
"I could speak to him on your behalf."
"Nah, I'll just keep tests out of my room but thanks anyways." Silence fell over the men. Without seeing Jean's facial expressions, it had become harder for Brook to understand what the feather-haired man was thinking. 'Wearing his heart on his sleeve' is an accurate phrase to describe Jean but Brook could no long utilize his eyes to see Jean's moods. Brook never realized how often he used his eyes to spot telling signs of his friend's emotions until after they were gone. Brook focused on whatever sounds he could pick up.
Jean coughed to clear his throat. "Everyone here's been great to me, since I was taken in. Seriously, you guys are so happy all the time."
"I suppose so, music has always had a strong presence in our culture. I personally believe that music is the reason why Crescent Luna feels like paradise," said Brook.
"You don't hear much music nowadays." Jean remarked.
Jean's offhanded comment surprised Brook. He was a musician so Brook had been constantly surrounded by music. Thinking back over the past couple months, he hadn't heard any music unless he was playing his violin. Many musicians were soldiers in the Gentle War and not many returned. Families were still attempting to accommodate the empty seats at their dinner tables, neighbors talked in whispers about the state of affairs instead of the fashions and trends of sophisticated societies. It seemed like the only noise was the occasion ghost wind the roared through the streets as if there was nothing its way. Brook frowned, realizing Crescent Luna's voice, once merry and clear, was barely a murmur in the wind.
"War affects everyone," Brook said grimly. "Our dignity and our soul were beaten down by the never ending waterfall of bloodshed. It will not be an easy recovery."
"I know. I was a mess when I washed up here. But yah know what? The best medicine I got was the music. It would cheer me up without fail. I think Crescent Luna needs that medicine now."
"I think recovering the economy comes first." Brook suggested.
"You have to motivate people first." Jean argued, his voice becoming stronger. "I already figured out my master creation. I'll will lift the spirit of Crescent Luna back on her feet, the people with have a reason to be proud of their kingdom and invading forces will halt at our shores are realize that Crescent Luna will not be beaten!"
"That was quite poetic of you. I'll hold you to it. When I return, I want to be able to feel the change your master creation brings." Brook said.
"Trust me, it'll be so great your ears will be blown away."
"I hope not, I need them." Brook smiled, "A promise then?"
"Yeah,"
With a flare of dramatics, Brook bowed. "Then I'm off to show my respects to the dead, a good day to you Jean Clark."
"See you around, Brook."
With a bit of a bounce in his step, Brook walked faster than he usually dared. Humming as he went.
"… Wait did you say 'return?'" Jean questioned but Brook was gone and his humming had faded into the wind.
~~BINK~*~SAKE~~
Location: Crescend Major
Time: Late Afternoon
Current Year
Brook had thought a lot about what he wanted in those first months after he was blinded. He listened and realized that Crescent Luna had changed because of the war and he found himself longing for adventure. Back then Brook didn't want to admit it but Jean and Angus were right, he had become obsessed with the world beyond the horizon.
At first he was hesitant to leave. After all those years of being a Royal Guard, the obligation to protect and aid the island he swore his loyalty to was overwhelming influential. After several months, Brook realized he didn't need to protect anyone anymore. Luna had grown up and Jean focused his energy into his dream. The Queen stood firmly and proud and the children were capable of entertaining themselves.
So Brook left. He traveled, joined a pirate crew full of musicians, befriended a baby whale, ate a devil fruit, crossed the Grand Line, died, revived, got stranded in the Florian Triangle, lost his shadow, found new nakama, crossed the Red Line and traveled the New World. All of the adventures, the merry assembly to the empty decrepitate halls of the Rumbar ship, everything led him back to where he started.
Over fifty years ago he stood before Angus's grave for the first time before Brook departed for his adventures. Now he stood before it again.
Sixty-five years had barely weathered the seastone slab that stood as an empty plot for a body lost in the sea. The undertaker just used the best piece he found amongst the stones in Angus's yard. There wasn't even a service, just a few people who tolerated Angus in his life time convened when the undertaker stuck the stone into the ground. The grave was erected in place of the man who lived up in the mountain, hidden behind the man's poor excuse for a house. The grave was removed from society, tucking away the memories of a man who, once upon a time, was impossible to ignore.
It saddened Brook to recall his teacher and what he once was. While one would never associate any gentlemanly manners with such a man, Angus was one of Crescent Luna's greatest warriors. Brook questioned bitterly why Angus forced him back to the surface. He was strong enough to swim down to him so why couldn't Angus let him save him? Was the man so prideful that he would rather face a torturous death by drowning instead of being saved by his apprentice?
Even if Angus had lived, he would most likely try and kill him for becoming a pirate. Brook had to admit it was nice to know that he would never have to be on the other side of Angus's sword in an actually battle.
A twig snapped, breaking Brook out of his pensive thoughts. He barely had a chance to register a hand wrapping its long fingers around his throat.
Just an itty bitty cliffhanger. Not too bad, right? What kind of trouble has Brook gotten himself into? I don't know. We'll just have to wait until the next chapter comes out.
-DigitalGuardian