"Makino-chan!"
The young woman in question stopped in the street and turned around.
"Yes, dear?"
Clustered behind her was a small knot of local children. One in the front, a lad named Kibo, was being pushed forward excitedly by those behind. When she looked at him, the little boy fisted his hands in his pant fabric and loudly blurted out, "I… I'M GONNA MARRY YOU!"
Before she could frame a response to his heartfelt declaration Kibo was already off and running down the street. His pack followed in hot pursuit, some of them crying out, "Wait, Kibo, you didn't let her answer!" and, "You gotta go back, you didn't say it right!"
Makino watched them retreat with a fond smile on her face. He wasn't the most self-assured of her admirers, but he was definitely the youngest. Tucking her long black hair back behind a colorful kerchief, she took up her burden and continued on. Already this latest escapade in her romantic life was drawing laughter and grins from the other villagers out this day.
"Oi, Makino-chan, when's the wedding?"
"Guess this means my boy Gustav will be disappointed!"
"MOM, don't SAY that, she'll HEAR you!"
"Will there be free drinks today to celebrate, Makino-chan?"
In response the proprietress of the local bar only smiled and waved before continuing on her way. This sort of thing was nothing new. While approaching twenty might be considered a milestone, in her case it would be just one more birthday. It was true that girls her age were most often married and settled down by this point. Here in the Kingdom of Goa there wasn't much more to do besides that. In her case, however, Makino had found a very satisfying and prosperous occupation early on. Running her own eating establishment gave her great joy and no small amount of personal pride. The local youths had been pining after her for a while now without a doubt. And maybe sometime in the future it would be a good idea to consider letting someone special into her life. For now, though, there were other things to keep abreast of besides matrimony.
On this glorious summer day in Fuusha Village, one could entertain idle thoughts like romance without being considered a daydreamer. Their small port town still experienced brisk trade, which also meant a steady stream of customers for her business. Naval ships and merchant craft alike dropped anchor down by the docks. Inevitably the weary sailors would gravitate towards Makino's place at the insistence of the townsfolk, where she happily served them their ale and rum along with dishes prepared according to time-honored fashion.
The travelers paid her not just in money, but with stories and rumors about what was happening in the wide world beyond their minor island in East Blue. Gregarious by nature, the dutiful barmaid was glad to hear them talk. From blustering young sailors to sea-wise Marines, they were all welcome to spread their tall tales and preposterous truths about what went on in those wide dark seas. She had heard stories of sea monsters big enough to swallow an island and lands where giants walked like ordinary men, as well as the fantastical powers exhibited by those souls who had been blessed and cursed by the Devil Fruit.
And of course, there was talk of pirates.
"Makino-chan!" a laundrywoman with a full basket on her head called out. "Have they stopped by yet?"
"No, not yet," she called back. "It was just a merchant ship, I went down to pick up some spices I ordered." She indicated the small wooden crate in her arms.
"Well, I should have known. Old Norland will keep a lookout and let us know if they're really coming today." They waved to one another and went off.
The reason behind this seemingly innocent discussion would have shocked anyone outside of Fuusha. A short while back word reached their locale that the infamous pirate ship Dyed Red had been spotted once again in the waters of East Blue. That could only mean that the Red Haired Pirates had returned after a two-year absence. While other communities cowered in fear at the prospect, however, this particular hamlet hoped to once again welcome that band of good-natured marauders into their midst.
Makino considered the prospect as she approached her bar. It had seemed like forever since Shanks and his crew set sail back to their stomping grounds in the Grand Line. The chance to see him again was something she had looked forward to eagerly these last few weeks. If they did return, she would have to contact Luffy up on Mt. Corbo. The little rubber boy would never forgive her if he missed a chance to flock around his hero and personal savior. Some might label all pirates as wicked and dishonorable, but any man who would sacrifice his own arm to save a child was a credit to whatever profession he might choose. Garp wouldn't be thrilled when he found out, and no doubt Ace and Sabo would insist on tagging along. Still, you couldn't…
"Waddaya mean, NO?"
At this belligerent shout, her head came back to the present. That had come from inside her place. The lunchtime crowd had been dwindling when she stepped out for a bit. Apparently someone had taken advantage of her absence to get a little testy.
Let's see what the problem is.
It didn't take her long after entering to find out. Two teenage boys and a girl were perched on stools at the bar. The latter she didn't recognize, but the others were Bale and Eric. Not quite sixteen years old, they had a reputation around town for being rude troublemakers. One was tall and gangly with black hair that fell into his eyes, while the other kept his head shaved and liked to swagger around with a Jolly Roger bandana tied round his throat. The fact that they were here was no big news, but their place up at the bar could only mean one thing. They must have been watching for her to leave before coming in and trying to throw their weight around.
Positioned behind the counter with arms crossed over his chest, the waiter Robert stood stone-faced before the trio. Only a few other people remained eating their meals and watching the altercation curiously. They had spotted her arrival while the ones causing the ruckus clearly hadn't. Rather than rushing in, Makino took the time to evaluate this situation for a little longer.
Bale had his hands on the countertop and was leaning forward in an effort to be intimidating. "How do you know how old I am, crow-face? Did I tell you? Huh, did I?"
"Man, who do you think you are, talking to us like that?" Eric drawled in support of his friend. "You're just a broke loser scrubbing tables. So just do what we say and get us a round of drinks!"
"You're underage," Robert replied tersely, half-closed eyes exhibiting no distress. That was apparently all he had to say on the matter.
Bale looked over at the other two. "Can you believe this guy?" he groused, fingering the black flag at his throat.
"I thought you said you ran this town," the girl drawled in a mocking tone of voice. High-quality clothes and a cultured accent told Makino that she wasn't from around here. Probably just drifted in from the capitol on the other side of the island. The sort who was always looking for trouble, but not wanting to do it in her own backyard.
"Hey, Bale," Eric said. "Maybe we should teach him a lesson?"
"I think you're right." He turned back about. "You hear that, dork-boy?"
Their bravado didn't seem to have quite the desired effect. Robert had already turned away and was busying himself stacking glasses. He paid no more attention to the three malcontents.
Bale's face went dead with anger, and he slammed a hand loudly on the hardwood surface. "HEY! Don't turn your back on me, man! You come out from behind there! You and me are gonna go outside!"
When Robert continued to ignore him, the brash youth reached up and knocked the hairnet off her employee's head.
Well, that was more than enough.
"Boys," Makino announced calmly.
They spun about and froze upon seeing her standing in the doorway. She took her time strolling up to deposit the box on the side of the counter, casually dusting her hands off her long skirts. Robert picked it up and carried it back to the kitchen without saying a word. He seemed willing to let the boss handle this.
Her large black eyes didn't even bother to look at them when she spoke next. "You're both going to go outside and stay out until you're invited back in. Your little friend too. And the next time you come here you can leave the attitudes at the door." Lifting the divider of the bartop, she stepped through and let it drop before finally turning to confront them. A cheerful grin lit her face. "Otherwise I'll have to call on your mothers and let them know what I think."
Her words had hit the mark. In moments the menacing toughs were reduced to shamefaced boys. Chagrined, they both looked away from the nineteen-year old woman smiling sweetly before them.
"Sorry, Makino-san," Bale muttered.
Eric echoed him. "Yeah, sorry."
Makino picked up a half-empty bowl of peanuts and dumped it out the window to feed the pigeons. She then opened a fresh can to refill it. "You heard me. Run along, now. I'll let you know when you're welcome back here."
Eric and Bale stood up and began to shuffle towards the exit. "C'mon, Tina," the skinny one mumbled. Their out-of-town temptress watched her cohorts in disgust. She stood up and spit, "Losers!" before stomping outside with the boys trailing in her wake trying desperately to salvage their reputations.
The person responsible for their humiliation continued to tend bar while humming to herself. All other patrons went back to their drinks and meals with contented smiles. Everybody in town with a lick of sense knew better than to get on Makino's bad side. She was a very popular public figure and not afraid to speak her mind on any issue. Being on good terms with most of the older villagers, she had a certain say in how daily life was run in these parts. And the children adored her. In the face of all that, even teenage hormones weren't enough to win the day.
Moving back into the kitchens bearing a stack of dirty dishes, Makino almost collided with Robert. "Everything all right?" she asked with concern.
In response he only finished slipping a new hairnet over his dark curls and rolled up his sleeves. "Yes, ma'am." With that he took the dishes from her before going over to the sink.
She sighed as he began to busy himself with cleaning. Though roughly the same age, Robert insisted on referring to her as 'ma'am'. He had arrived on the island a few months back looking for work. A self-described wandering poet, he claimed to have handled a variety of odd jobs on his travels in order to pay his way. While somewhat morose and certainly not what one would call talkative, he had proven himself a diligent worker, and that counted for more in Makino's book than sparkling personality.
Initially he had implied he only needed to work until he had enough to afford passage on a vessel heading to the next island. Robert was her only steady help at this time, and so Makino had offered him a generous wage in addition to whatever tips he might earn. By what she was paying him alone it should have already been enough to book a seat on any reputable ship. Yet here he stayed. The young man cut a mysterious figure in these parts. His aura of the 'brooding artist' had served to foster a good deal of rumors. A healthy build and leonine face earned her waiter his share of admirers amongst the girls in the community as well. To her knowledge he had never taken them up on a date, preferring to spend his time absorbed in composing poetry which he permitted no one to read.
Truth be told, she was starting to think his willingness to stay might be due to him having a crush on her. If so, Makino would just have to let him down easy. She had a lot of time left in which to find love. That wasn't in the cards for her right now.
The rest of the day went by without mishap. Fishermen came in around mid-afternoon in order to swap big fish stories and complain about the weather, in spite of it being beautiful. Too calm, they all muttered. A storm was brewing. All of them wanted to tug her ear regarding the big news, namely whether or not Shanks and company would be making an appearance. To their eager entreaties the beautiful barmaid could only reply back with guesses. She tried to keep from becoming infected by their air of excitement. But lately every time word came in about a ship being tied up, regardless of whether it flew a pirate flag or not, it made her heart race with anticipation.
By 6 o'clock things were starting to die down. The regular dinner mob had come and gone leaving only a few stragglers. It would be at least another hour before the late-night party bunch started trickling in, on the lookout for drinks and good company to share them with. Makino's pub stayed open late in order to make up for not serving any breakfast. This also meant she could sleep in to a reasonable degree. If she didn't own the place, the sort of effort you had to put into every day might make her come to despise this job. But there was no way she could hate the people who depended on her for food and a friendly atmosphere. You couldn't put a price tag on such things.
Still no word from Old Norland on spotting any pirate ships, Makino thought to herself as she and her help bused tables. Maybe tomorrow would hold better luck. Still, the Marines were getting more serious about patrolling this area recently. Several merchant ships had sunk in the past year under mysterious conditions. It was said they had simply run up against bad weather or unpredictable ocean currents. And that was certainly believable. This had been a season noticeable for its storms.
But another rumor hinted at a darker hand at work. It stated pirates were to blame, and not just any ordinary ruffians. A few years back a gang of fishmen supposedly came into East Blue by way of the Calm Belt, a route only oceanic beings such as them could contemplate safely. Their whereabouts were not well-known, but it was believed their leader was a survivor of the dreaded Sunny Pirates of the Grand Line and had already conquered an entire island for his personal use. Whether this was true or not, it did seem that the World Government was taking a closer look at any scallywags attempting to make a name for themselves in East Blue. With the likes of Captain Kuro and Don Krieg also committing misdeeds, one didn't travel the seas lightly nowadays.
Big old dangerous world out there. Still, some notable exceptions to the image of pirates as bloodthirsty killers did exist. In her youth there had been the Pirate King himself, Gold Roger. And now, of course, you had someone like…
The doors to outside flung open, and Makino looked up. A robust figure came striding in wearing a black cloak draped over his shoulders. A cowl covered his features, and loud laughter rang forth as this man was followed closely by three others, all looking the part of slightly bedraggled seafarers. They chose a spot near the door to sit and slumped tiredly in their seats, the one in the lead with his back to the room.
As she was about to start over to them, their leader reached up to flick off his hood, revealing a mass of wild red hair.
Makino almost cried out in joyful recognition. But at this point the man shifted so she could see his profile. By then she had already noticed the differences. For starters, this person was clearly shorter than Shanks. In addition, while he was sporting a scar over one eye, it cut a single line across his eyebrow and down his cheek. Also, it was on the wrong side. Followed up by this was the fact that, while his coat was still on, it didn't seem he was missing an arm. And for the final touch, his face didn't look at all like the one she remembered.
The disappointment this realization brought with it left her feeling rather foolish. I'm seeing things. Maybe this day was longer than I thought. As she was thinking this, one of the newcomers scanned around and raised his voice.
"Oi! Can we get some service over here?"
"Coming, sir!" their hostess called out, still feeling a little flustered. "Robert, would you…?"
Makino had intended to ask he take over her table while she went to take their order. Instead she found herself unable to complete that sentence.
Off by himself, Robert had turned his head to study the new customers. He was facing away from her, and she only caught a glimpse of his features before he moved off to greet them. But what she saw then rendered the woman completely paralyzed. The shock would not permit her to so much as breathe.
What had happened? For a moment there that gloomy unsmiling man she had come to depend on wasn't visible. In his place there had stood someone wearing the most disturbing grin you could ever imagine. It was… vicious, was the best word. Yes, vicious. And eager too. His black eyes narrowed even further than usual, sharpening and focusing in as if seeing someone he had been searching for his whole entire life. There was more animation to his face than she had ever thought possible from this moody young introvert.
Then it had passed, and as he walked towards the group his features settled back in that perfect mask of calm indifference.
She blinked, wondering at the oddness of the vision. Did I imagine that? Is my mind running away with me again? Sure, Robert's a little dark, but the look I just saw… didn't even seem human.
I'm just tired, Makino finally told herself. Tired and need to sit down, I've been on my feet most of the day. How ridiculous am I? Wake up, girl, you're suffering from a bout of nerves. First you're seeing Shanks, now this. Take a load off and you'll be fine. She slid back a chair and began to lower herself into it.
As she did, Makino's eye caught something else peculiar.
When Robert passed a table, his fingers flexed, and she could swear a steak knife disappeared off a plate and up his sleeve.
Now the breathless teen knew she had to say something. Anything. Call out, scream a warning, ask what was going on. There was no way she could keep quiet.
That's what she told herself. Instead Makino found she could do nothing but sit in that chair and watch dumbfounded at what took place before her.
Robert walked up to the table in the corner. He was as calm as when stacking plates or pouring out drinks. By no hitch in his step or twist of his shoulders did he betray himself in the slightest. All the same, he made not a sound. His shoes slid over the floor without the faintest hint of noise. And then he was upon them, hand coming up, rising. To kill, she knew, to tear the life out…
The red-haired man turned his head and looked over with a smile.
"Hey, son."
Robert paused as he looked at that face directly.
Then his hand fell back to his side. "Good afternoon, sir. What can I get for you today?"
"Two flagons of grog for my mates here, a pint of rum for the rummy on my right, and a tankard of ale for me, the best you've got."
"Gabby, you ass!" one of his friends chortled. "Don't order for people if you don't even know what they like! Seriously, lad, I'll take a Midori sour if you've got it."
"Make it two pints o' rum! Sailing's thirsty work nowadays," another boomed.
"Right away," their server inclined his head and turned back to move behind the bar.
"Oy, lassy!" one of the men called out to the stunned owner. "Can we get some fish and chips to help our livers steer straight tonight, eh?"
Makino only stared at Robert for a time. When he looked her way, she hastily averted her gaze before standing and fairly running back into the kitchen. "C-coming right up!"
Laughter reigned supreme then.
The door closed behind her. Now that she was out of sight Makino found she had to press a hand against the wall to steady herself.
I didn't just imagine that, did I? What had he been about to do? Did Robert know those men somehow? It hardly seemed likely. And nothing had actually happened. It was only an impression she had gotten. But still, the fear Makino felt had been so real!
Shaking her head, she tried to dispel that lingering pall. Do some cooking, it'll clear your mind. The girl moved to the stove and began preparing the meal. Into the bubbling oil pot she dipped some seasoned potato slices in a wire basket. She breaded some cod and started to fry them in butter, adding a squeeze of lemon juice. With swift assured movements Makino flipped the fish and reached for a knife to pare more potatoes.
As she picked up the sharp implement, a ray of light flashed off its blade. It made her remember with stark clarity that unnerving scene.
And that got her thinking.
Maybe Robert didn't know those men. Maybe… he only thought he did.
The guy with red hair in the black slicker. Makino had mistaken him for Red-haired Shanks. What if Robert had shared the same impression? And his reaction before learning the truth had been to…
My god.
Suddenly certain facts began to line up in her head. Word of the Red-Haired Pirates' return had been circulating for months. Robert had shown up only a week or two before that. Makino remembered it clearly. He stayed around even after earning enough to continue traveling. It hadn't seemed like an important issue, there could have been plenty of reasons for him to linger in Fuusha. Appreciation for the locale, maybe even looking to settle down here. But what if that had nothing to do with it?
Her hands continued to busy themselves preparing the food while her brain settled on this disturbing track. That famous pirate crew… it wasn't a secret they had made this village their base while hanging out in East Blue. If they did come back, no one would be surprised that they decided to do so again, or even just stop by for a visit. And should that happen, the one spot they could definitely be depended upon to visit was the local alehouse. If you were looking to find them, that would be the perfect place to start.
What if Robert had been waiting for Shanks?
The idea left her cold. With almost mechanical disassociation the fry cook scooped up the fish and chips and dropped them into wax paper-lined baskets. Taking one in each hand and the last two in the crook of either elbow, she moved to the door and opened it, backing out slowly.
Nothing had changed. The men sat at their table, still laughing amongst themselves, only now with drinks to help them along. Robert had gone back to clearing the plates and tankards left by earlier guests. He didn't even look up as she came back in. As for Makino, she found it hard to take her eyes off him. Practiced ease allowed her to navigate through the tables without even brushing against a chair. Which was good, because the more she studied him, the greater her suspicions grew. Had she been deceived? Was this man a bounty hunter only interested in using her bar to attract one of the most wanted men in the world? Just what did she know about him for sure, anyway? Nothing, that's what.
What should I do? I can't just fire him. It's only a half-formed conclusion I've drawn based on a split-second look. I could just as well be wrong. There's no point in asking him about it. If he was here for sinister reasons, he'd never tell me. And if I'm wrong I'd only be insulting him. But still, should my suspicions be correct, then not doing anything is the absolute worst thing I could do. So what are my options?
"PIRATES!"
The cry startled Makino so much she lost her footing. The baskets of food slipped and…
She collided against something solid. Before she knew it the wicker plates had flown from her hands and now settled on nearby tables too fast for her to see.
The astonished lady looked up to see Robert gazing down at her. She was pressed up against his chest, hands caught in the white fabric of his shirt. Distantly Makino realized how this situation must look like to anyone viewing it. Like something out of a romance novel.
"You all right, ma'am?"
There wasn't time to phrase a response to his calm query, as once more the quiet was broken.
"JOLLY ROGER SIGHTED! I SEEN IT, I DID! SHE BE BEARIN' IN FROM THE EAST! PIRATES A'COMIN'!"
This loud alarm was coming from outside. Makino recognized the voice as belonging to Old Norland, a retired sailor who spent his days scanning the waves with a telescope in search of noteworthy vessels. While somewhat dotty, the townsfolk had come to rely on him to give them early warnings of anything that might pose a threat to the community. Norland had never learned to distinguish between the Red-Haired Pirates' flag and any other. He only saw the skull-and-crossbones and immediately assumed the worst. There was no trust in his heart for anyone under that banner. It had become a rather frequent occurrence to hear his squawking back when Shanks was living among them. Most had thought it funny at best, mildly annoying at worst.
"PIRATES! LOCK UP YOUR DAUGHTERS! ENEMY ON THE MOVE!"
The sounds of the old coot diminished as he went racing on by. There was no way to know if it was Shanks or an actual menace approaching them. Pirate ships were rare in these parts, to be sure. Even knowing that, somehow Makino felt certain it was their old friends returned for a visit.
She found herself staring into Robert's calm black eyes. Beneath her hands she could feel a body that was rock-solid with muscle. This is the first time I've ever touched him, she realized. I knew he was in good shape for a guy, but this goes far beyond what one would expect from a simple waiter, or a poet. He feels like he's made of steel.
A shiver went up her frame. The man stepped back from her. No words were spoken between them. Instead the silent waiter only took up their guests' orders and walked on over to deliver it to them. That group was already excitedly discussing Norland's warning, wondering if there might be need to evacuate and whether there was a Marine garrison to be found nearby.
Makino wasn't wondering anything like that. Instead she was thinking about something else.
I'm not going to stay quiet this time.
In moments she had decided on a plan. It was sound, believable, and wouldn't attract suspicion.
Quickly moving over to the coat rack Makino grabbed a red long-sleeved shirt to ward against the chill of the approaching evening. "Robert?" she called out, fighting to keep her voice cheerful. "I'm going to see what the commotion is about. Keep an eye on things for me, will you?
"No."
"I won't be long s…"
Sliding on the shirt, she froze at realizing his response. The owner looked back at her employee with honest surprise.
"I'll go," Robert said in his deep soft voice, watching her with an intensity that was nothing less than frightening. He reached up and removed his hairnet before turning to leave. "Too dangerous for a girl to be out there. If it's really pirates I'll come back and warn you."
She wanted to say something to assert herself, remind him that she was the one in charge here even if she didn't like to flaunt her authority. But in the face of his icy statement she couldn't seem to find the words. Normally she would be offended at being painted in the portrait of fragile victimhood some men held towards her sex. Right now, though, it was like just by speaking the words he had made her become that weak and helpless female in need of protection, even if Makino would never describe herself as such.
"Stay here until I get back." Robert then crossed to the exit and stepped outside. He didn't even wait for her to voice agreement that he do so. A second later he was gone.
For a while there was only silence to be heard in the bar.
"Hey, miss?" one of the men called. "Do you think we could…?"
"Sorry, we're closed."
All four of them turned to stare at the oddly blank-faced young woman. She didn't bother to return the looks, only came forward and swiftly began clearing their barely-touched meals.
"Hey, what…?"
"I'm sorry, I really am, but right now we need to close." Makino stacked baskets and grabbed up glasses by the handles, too fast for them to react. "You should go somewhere safe, I recommend the post office, pirates aren't likely to visit there."
Before they knew it she had them on their feet and gently scooting towards the door.
"But we haven't even eaten! Or paid!"
"No need. Thank you for stopping by, and I hope to see you again. Drinks are on me next time. Thank you, goodbye!"
She nudged them across the threshold and through the swinging saloon doors. The four men stood stupefied as a 'Closed' sign was hung up in the window. Looking at one another in amazement, they shuffled their feet for a bit before meandering out into the street.
Makino was already heading into the kitchen towards the back door. She couldn't risk going out the front and running into Robert on her way to…
Where, exactly? What am I going to do? I haven't a clue. As she locked the door and stepped out into the lowering dusk, the distraught lady looked back and forth in consternation. Should I go to the mayor? And tell him what? 'I think my waiter is aiming to kill somebody'. It sounds totally ridiculous.
She found herself moving down the alley regardless of having no clear destination. Maybe down to the docks, warn Shanks right away if it turns out to be him. But she could easily see herself meeting Robert down there, and that was something she wanted to avoid right now. Passing between buildings in this tiny hamlet, the young woman wondered what to do. If it is a hostile pirate ship, we're all in trouble. And if it isn't, then they are. But wait, this is crazy! I don't even know who it was that's heading this way! What can I do to warn them?
A few turns later brought her into the central plaza for Fuusha Village. Standing at the alley's end, Makino saw a lot of other people racing excitedly through the streets. Most were congregating at the docks. She shied back, fearful of running into Robert out there in the crowd. How to explain to him if she did? Looking out she could see the ocean stretching limitless and blue away from their puny island.
And there off in the distance was a dark blot that marked the approaching ship.
There was no one else in the village square now. Makino stumbled out into the open, feeling hot and frantic. I've got to do something. Oh really, like what? How bad is this, anyway? I don't even know if it's them. Besides, surely Shanks and his crew can handle one lone bounty hunter. But by the time they come into port it might already be too late. What if Shanks gets picked off by a sniper shot while he's on deck? Am I crazy for thinking this? How did I get to be in this state?
There were tears in her eyes. Frantically Makino wiped them away, turning her head to blink up at the darkening blue sky.
As she did, she caught sight of the flag.
It was whipping in the wind from its place atop the flagpole at the village center. The sight was visible from a ways offshore. Sometimes used to signal fishermen at sea of possible danger from storms or approaching pirates, the banner was changed to reflect such conditions.
Staring at that sight, a plan sprang to mind.
In no time Makino was hoisting down the village flag. A desperate mania had her working with lightning speed. This is crazy, I'm crazy for doing this. She told this to herself, but still it wasn't enough to make her stop. Soon the colorful square of cloth was wadded up at her feet. By then she had already stripped off her red shirt and was tying two ends of it to the rope. Once that was finished the makeshift banner began to climb skywards with every frantic pull she made on the cord until at last it fluttered daringly against the sky for all to see.
Makino stepped back from her handiwork panting. Her eyes shot out to sea, and she watched the vessel bobbing on the waves. By now you could easily make out the white sails of the ship bearing down on them. Several minutes went by, and she did nothing but stare breathlessly. Was it still getting closer? Miles away from shore, I can't make it out. The sun was setting behind them, and the dimming bright light made it somewhat easier to discern details.
Please let this work. Let them see it's a warning. Red means danger. If it is another pirate ship, they won't care about our warning and keep coming in anyway. But if this is the Red-Haired Pirates, please let them understand. Red is bad, even for you. It's not a welcome sign. Stay away from here please, oh please, don't come here today!
Fifteen minutes now. Still no change. Bad news either way. Feeling sick from worry, Makino hung her head and breathed deeply with her eyes closed. Enemies to threaten us, or friends who might be in danger? Who can say? The excited shouts of her fellows still drifted up to her ears. Had anyone made out the ship's flag yet? Can I at least know that much?
After a time spent in this position she noticed a change in the hubbub from the docks. It sounded almost questioning, and anxious. Like they didn't know what to think anymore.
Makino raised her head in dawning hope.
Far away, she could see the sails of the vessel clearly now. Is it really…? Yes… yes, it is!
They were turning.
With every second it became more obvious. And as her fellow townsmen grew more agitated, the barmaid's heart leapt. They had seen it! The ship was steering away from them, displaying its starboard side as it began to slowly head towards the south. Still couldn't tell if it was the Dyed Red, but whatever the case it didn't really matter.
Makino was feeling weak with relief. Her legs trembled like she had been running a marathon. Of a sudden there was nothing more sensible than to get back home. To this end she trudged down the deserted streets. No one passed her by or called out to her. They must all still be on the coast wondering what went wrong. I guess I'll have to explain it to them later. Assuming I can.
Upon reaching her shop she flung open the doors and gratefully went in. Energy returned to her as soon as she set foot back in her dominion. Taking a deep breath, she leaned against the doorframe and sighed. The industrious damsel then reached up and flipped the sign back to 'Open', before skipping towards the kitchen. She had forgotten to turn the stove off before she left. A good thing the place hadn't burned down in her absence.
It was growing dark outside now. Time to turn the lights on. As she busied herself bustling about the cooking area, Makino thought about what just happened. And the more she did, the more it seemed as though she had behaved badly. I got frightened for a few seconds and immediately assumed the worst. Did I just scare off Shanks and company for no real reason? If this gets out I'll have a reputation for being a featherhead.
First thing's first, Makino thought as she went to light the lamps in the dining area. I have to talk to…
Makino opened the door and stopped. There stood Robert.
Things seemed dim and shadowy all around her. Almost cold. There was even less warmth to be found in his face. They stood there watching one another for a brief time before Makino thought to even speak.
"Oh, you're back!" She managed a smile, for which she was proud, and walked over to the windows. "Was it just a false alarm? That's what we get for trusting someone named Norland. He really should get himself a new hobby!"
The snap of the match as she bent to light the oil lamp was the only reply. Waving it out she turned back to him. "Did you…?"
Robert hadn't moved from that spot. Instead he was holding something out towards her. It took Makino only a moment to recognize what it was. A red shirt. Hers, to be precise.
She swallowed against a knot forming in her throat. "Robert? What's wrong?"
His lips opened slightly, enough for a harsh unforgiving whisper to come forth.
"You went outside."
The smile she tried to send him died before it could even be called a smirk. And when it was obvious there was no use pretending to be ignorant, her own face went hard.
"What are you really doing in our village?"
He didn't answer.
"Are you a bounty hunter? Have you been waiting for Shanks to come here so you could collect the reward?"
The shirt slithered from his grip and dropped to the floor. It lay there like a pool of blood. Makino was shaking. She couldn't explain why, because he still hadn't done anything. But there seemed little doubt that his intentions in being here were not healthy.
"You… you have to leave now," she whispered, unable to speak any louder for some reason.
When he didn't move, the trembling girl began to slowly edge around him. Her heart was pounding in her chest. The kitchen was closer than the entrance. She could lock that door behind her if need be, and he wouldn't be able to follow her in there. Assuming he was going to. Robert still hadn't moved an inch. Just stood there staring at her with cold flat dispassion.
Ten feet from the door, Makino lost her nerve. She couldn't take the sight of those eyes anymore, and she swiftly turned and bolted towards her escape. The sound of cloth tearing reached her ears, but she didn't dare to look back and see what it meant. Her hands caught the handle, she yanked it open.
And as she did, a huge clawed hand swept over her shoulder and slammed the door shut.
Still holding onto the latch with both hands, Makino stared wide-eyed at splayed fingers attached to an appendage that was too big, much too big. Muscles greater than a bull's shoulders stood out on that forearm. It wasn't human. The nails were sharp black claws an inch long, and short fur covered its entire length, white on the underside, yellow with black spots for the top. Like a leopard she had seen once at a zoo.
Those massive fingers slowly contracted, talons gouging deep furrows into the wood. As they did Makino stumbled slowly back in a daze. She collided with something then, a broad hard surface sheathed in hairs that scratched roughly against the back of her neck. Any thought of what this might be never crossed her mind, too stunned was she by the incomprehensible sight still before her.
A deep rumbling growl made that wall of muscled fur shake, and the girl clapped both hands to her mouth instinctively to prevent a scream.
She stood that way for a time, more frightened than at any point in her entire life. Not scared for someone else's safety, as was usually the case, but for herself. There was a shifting from behind. Makino buried her face in her hands without thinking about it. She was afraid if she saw anything more it might cause her to faint.
Because of this she only heard when the beast's muzzle came down near her ear. Hot breath washed against her slender throat as it opened its mouth, revealing ivory fangs of superlative sharpness. It inhaled deeply, and she knew it was scenting her fear. Tears welled up between her lashes and ran all the way down her neck.
"Please," she managed in words barely louder than a breath. "Please… leave."
A loud snarl sounded, causing her head to snap to one side. The animal's open mouth then came across her bared throat, enough to let her feel the lethal points pricking against her skin. Trembling, Makino waited blindly for what she knew was about to come. Her last thoughts were of the people she knew, her family, Luffy and Shanks, Dadan, Ace, plus all the things she'd never get to do now…
I wish I had more time.
There was a rapid flutter of something that sounded like wings close to her head. 'Angel' was the first instinctive thought. Surprised, the girl's teary brown eyes came up in time to see a white pigeon drop down and land on the creature's elbow.
"Coo," it warbled shrilly. Then it looked right at her, raised its wing in a little salute and said, "How do you do?"
Makino was dumbfounded. As she stared the bird hopped up the length of its outstretched perch, which did not move, until it was out of sight. After a bit there came the sound of whispers in that same trilling voice. Her ears picked out what sounded like, "…eported…mission termina...turn immediate…" After that it stopped.
There was a short growl in response, and then the monster withdrew its arm and stepped away.
Some brief rustling followed. When nothing more happened, Makino finally felt capable to turn and look behind her. The shredded remains of a white shirt lay on the floor. Robert was by the coat stand just finishing buttoning up his jacket. He then took down the black top hat he had worn that day he first came in and settled it on his head. Afterwards the false poet calmly walked to the doors and pushed through. He did not so much as look at his former boss on his way out.
The wooden portals swung shut with a snap, and her last sight of Robert was of him turning down the road that led out of town.
"Coo."
Makino jumped and spun. The white pigeon blinked at her from its position atop the bar. Then it bowed its little head.
"Thanks for all the honey-roasted peanuts. They're my favorite."
It spread its wings and flapped through the air and out the door before she could think to ask.
After a while the young woman realized her legs were about to give way. Just in time her hand snagged the balustrade and she collapsed onto a stool. Makino slumped across the bar, breathing heavily and crying without remorse.
She remained like this for an hour. Whether sleep came or not wasn't clear.
But when the screaming started, it roused her immediately.
She was out the door and hunting for some sign of the source of this distress in a second. People were running about and shouting, but no clear picture of the problem came to mind. Eventually Makino just grabbed someone by the shoulder and asked them.
"What happened? Is it pirates?"
"Makino-chan." It was the green-grocer. She almost hadn't recognized him for the look of wide-eyed dread he wore. Then his face seemed to clear and he gripped her hand firmly. "You need to get indoors. Lock yourself in! Don't go out on the streets, there's a wild animal on the loose."
"What?"
He glanced over at the mob of people going by and led her back to the entrance of her bar. "You don't want to know, believe me. Just don't go outside tonight. We're organizing a hunting party, it'll be all…"
Makino planted her feet and pulled her hand free. "Tell me. Please."
There was a pained expression on his face as he took in her resolute air. Then he cursed and spun away before coming back around in the same breath.
"Dammit!" The man clenched his fists helplessly before drawing a deep breath and continuing in a calmer vein. "They were out in the fields. Drunk, I think, they must have gotten their hands on some liquor. The girl said she never saw it coming. One minute they were laughing together, and then Bale was screaming on the ground with this big animal tearing at his throat. Eric tried to pull it off him, and it just… disemboweled him! Tore him wide open! She tried to run, and it came after. Sliced her face up really bad, but it left her alive. Some guys coming in from the windmill found her. She only now woke up to give the full story."
Makino's mouth hung open in horror at this recitation. "No," she gasped. The world was spinning, and suddenly she found herself sitting on the ground with a few more people bending over her.
"I'm sorry, I shouldn't have told you like that! It's upsetting enough without hearing the grisly details. Damn, I'm so stupid! You didn't have to hear that!"
"What happened?"
"Makino-chan fainted!"
"I'm going to get my rifle! Wait here!"
"Does anybody know what it was?"
"From what th' girl said musta been a tiger, or could be a cougar. Prob'ly wandered down from Mt. Corbo."
"Did you see them? God, what a mess. Poor Bale, his head was nearly off his shoulders! The only thing holding it on was that scarf he wore. I still think Eric got it worse, though, I didn't even recognize him after…"
"Cut it out! You're scaring her! Look, she's shaking like a leaf."
"Makino-chan?"
This last came in the voice of a child. Looking over she saw the little boy Kibo gazing at her uncertainly.
"Don't worry, Makino-chan." And he drew himself up with an eight-year old's confidence. "I'll protect you from the monster!"
His attempt at comfort only left her sobbing uncontrollably with arms wrapped around her legs and face buried in her knees. Kibo patted the older woman's shoulder, uncertain of what more to do here. The adults soon took Makino in hand and drew her inside the bar. No one asked about Robert's whereabouts. Everyone assumed he had fled when he heard pirates were approaching, leaving nothing behind but an empty poem book. Poets were not considered the most stalwart of men, after all.
Makino never tried to correct them on that.
FIN.