As Sakazuki waited in Soléy's home, he observed her hurriedly preparing an "apology meal." Despite feeling awkward, he tries to make conversation and ease the tension. "Soléy, thank you again for inviting me into your home and preparing this meal. I appreciate your efforts, but there's no need for an apology. I'm sure whatever you're making will be delicious. Is there anything I can do to help?" He asked respectfully, not wanting to feel indebted to the woman in any way.
the young ginger woman giggled a bit before turning to face the marine. "Don't be silly, you're my guest. Please relax, I'm sure you're tired from the journey." She reassured. The woman's kindness made him a bit uneasy but he couldn't help but blush as he watched her stirring food in a large pot. it was only now he'd noticed how petite she actually was, nearly on the tips of her toes to reach top cupboards. She was.. cute. his blush deepened at the word that popped in his head. He NEVER described ANYTHING as 'cute'
Sakazuki tried to compose himself, feeling a bit flustered by his own thoughts. He didn't want to make Soléy uncomfortable, so he decided to focus on the conversation instead. "Thank you, Soléy. I appreciate your hospitality. It's been quite a journey indeed, but being here and having a home-cooked meal is very comforting. Is there a story behind this 'apology meal' you mentioned earlier?" he asked, genuinely curious about the reason behind the gesture.
She hummed in response seemingly lost in thought for a moment. "Well.." She began. "Nwayo Warrior Reconciliation Feasts are a traditional practice in my tribe." She explained, stirring absent mindedly. "It follows battles or conflicts with former enemies. These feasts serve as a means of healing and rebuilding relationships, fostering forgiveness and unity among warriors from both sides. The feasts are marked by the preparation of elaborate meals, symbolizing the willingness to come together and share a meal as a sign of reconciliation. Through these feasts, the Nwayo tribe aims to promote peace, understanding, and the restoration of harmony within their community." She Finished, thinking fondly oh her home's culture.
Sakazuki nodded in understanding, despite her back facing him. He thought back to his walk through the village, he hadn't seen anyone aside from the run of the mill civilians. There was no hint of a militia so much as existing anywhere in the town. So he asked, "You said before that your father was a warrior, is he at sea?" He asked, taking not of the empty house, with no signs of anyone but Soléy living inside. the younger woman suddenly froze at the question.
After a brief silence she finally stated, "He died. They all did." Sakazuki felt somewhat bad for asking, but it was information, if it was of any significance to the marines he's under obligation to report it. having never heard anything about such an event he pressed further. "Well, what happened?" He asked cautiously, taking note of how the girl seemed upset.
Soléy's father, a brave and respected warrior of the Nwayo tribe, met his untimely demise during a fateful encounter with pirates that forever changed the island. The Nwayo military, including her father, valiantly fought to protect their village from the marauding band of criminals. It was a fierce battle, with both sides locked in a desperate struggle for victory.
Despite their incredible display of courage and skill, the Nwayo warriors found themselves outnumbered and outmatched by the ruthless pirates. In a tragic turn of events, the pirates overwhelmed the Nwayo military, resulting in the loss of many lives, including Soléy's father.
The devastating defeat left the island in disarray, plunging it into a lawless state where chaos reigned. Soléy, then just a young girl, witnessed the aftermath of the battle, her heart heavy with grief and the weight of the village's loss.
This tragic event became a defining moment in Soléy's life, shaping her determination to bring justice and restore peace to her village. It served as a constant reminder of the sacrifices made by her father and the Nwayo military, fueling her resolve to strive for a future where such tragedies would never be repeated.
Recognizing Soléy's sadness and her hesitation in sharing further details, Sakazuki realized the sensitivity of the topic. He felt a mix of empathy and responsibility, understanding the potential significance of this information for the Marines. However, he also respected Soléy's feelings and well-being. With a gentle tone, he responded, "I apologize if my question has caused any distress, Soléy. If you're not comfortable sharing the details, I completely understand. Your well-being is important, and I don't want to bring up painful memories. If there's anything else you'd like to talk about or if there's anything I can assist you with, please let me know."
The girl finally turned to him with tears glazing her ruby irises.
After Soléy shared the history of reconciliation feasts in her tribe, Sakazuki couldn't help but empathize with the tragic loss her village had suffered. The mention of the lawless state of the island intrigued him, as it aligned with his duty to restore peace and order. "Soléy, I'm deeply sorry to hear about the loss your village endured. It must have been incredibly difficult for you all. Rest assured, as a Marine, I am committed to upholding justice and bringing stability to this island. I will do everything in my power to help restore law and order here," he assured her, his determination shining through. His chest emitted a feeling he never felt before as he watched her dulled eyes light up like a flame again.
As Soléy filled a large bowl with a tantalizing curry, the aroma filled the air, making Sakazuki's stomach growl. Despite his hunger, he maintained his composure and tried to suppress any outward signs of his appetite. He cleared his throat, regaining his stoic demeanor, and expressed his gratitude, "This smells wonderful, Miss Soléy. What is it?" he asked as she placed the bowl of steaming food in front of him. Tender pieces of chicken sat in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. It seemed to be seasoned with a blend of spices such as garlic, onions, thyme, and peppers, giving the dish a spicy and savory smell. His mouth watered a bit just looking at the bowl of rice she added in front of him. "it's called Poul Nan Sos. My mother taught me to make it when I was a girl. She passed a few years ago." She stated solemnly.
Feeling sorry for the evidently orphaned girl, Sakazuki gave a small smile and bowed his head to her in gratitude. "Thank you for your kind hospitality and for preparing this meal. I appreciate your efforts, and I'm sure it will taste as amazing as it smells." Sakazuki's polite and respectful nature shone through, even in the midst of his hunger. Her face perked up a bit at his words as she prepared her own
As they sit together, a peaceful ambiance envelops them as they enjoy a quiet dinner. The warm meal warms up the marine's chest with a sense of comfort and safety. He'd never tasted a more delicious meal, even though most of the marine chefs were skilled technically, eating a meal made with genuine passion and care was a rarity. His eyes drew on her again, taking in more of her features as she was preoccupied with fending off Poi Poi from her plate. She is a stunning dark skinned woman with an enchanting combination of features. Her bouncy ginger hair flows effortlessly, framing her face that is adorned with full, luscious lips that captivate all who gaze upon her. Her fiery red eyes hold a mesmerizing depth, reflecting her inner strength and passion. Illuminating her whole being is a genuine smile, radiating warmth and beauty, making her a true embodiment of grace and allure.
He'd seen many women from all around, but none captivated him like the young redhead before him. He wasn't sure what it was. His eyes drifted a bit lower without much thought. A stunning vision of beauty, her skin is incredibly smooth, adding to her allure. She is gracefully adorned in a simple frilly dress, which showcased her prominent and alluring curves. The dress is adorned with a beautiful tribal pattern, the collar of which dipped just low enough that his steely gaze found the tip of .. her.. cleavage- A knock at the door reawakens his conscious. He quickly stiffened his posture and looked down at his plate with sudden interest, clearing his throat, scolding himself for shameless ogling, uncharacteristic of his usual self.
Soléy stood up quickly to answer the door, swinging it open to reveal the Chief Taro standing there nervously. "Soléy I came to give you some warning, he's-" before he could finish his sentence he noticed Sakazuki sitting at the girl's table, their eyes met and the chief seemed relieved at the marine's presence. "Thank the gods - o" He stepped inside, slamming the door shut behind himself. "Lieutenant! We need your help." he said with urgency gripping the young man's shoulders desperately. Sakazuki, shocked by the sudden intrusion looked briefly to Soléy, then back to the older man.
"Fine." he said unsurely, easing himself from the cowardly man's grip. Suddenly an explosion went off a bit away, shaking the house and knocking Soléy and taro to their knees. Sakazuki standing firm and with a sudden burst of adrenaline, Sakazuki's instinct took over as he reacted to the explosion. Determined and prepared for danger, he swiftly reached for his katana and headed towards the door, ready to face whatever awaited him outside.