Is that so? Then I’ll be sure to spare you from any unnecessary harshness today.

Consider it a rare occasion.

It’s no assumption—I have been occupied as well.

Though I suspect your definition of ‘busy’ is far more chaotic than mine.

Did I surprise you that much? I wasn’t aware my kindness was so unsettling.

Kael. It has been a while.

😌

a man is holding a bottle of water in his hand . ALT: a man is holding a bottle of water in his hand .

//I-

//Taking a break for now, but I’ll be back soon 😭😭

//

He adjusted his position slightly, moving a rook defensively to counter Shanks’ strategy.

"Agreeing or arguing for the sake of appearances would be a waste of time. I’d like to think we’ve outgrown such things, at least."

Mihawk tilted his head slightly to the side, his gaze fixed on the board as he used a pawn to capture one of Shanks’ pawns.

"It seems all we discuss now are weighty matters—like two old men. Not that I find it unpleasant, of course."

He made a calculated decision, advancing a bishop to challenge Shanks’ Rook.

“Perhaps. But any peace we find is temporary, and always at a cost."

He ran a hand through his hair, letting out a deep sigh before moving a pawn defensively, blocking Shanks’ advance.

"Indeed, you're correct. While we have freedom in many things, living a peaceful life with someone simply isn’t an option for us."

Mihawk’s gaze lingered on the board, the game growing increasingly complex. He moved his rook forward, taking two of Shanks’ pawns in a single, decisive strike.

“That’s an excellent way to interpret it."

But right now, there are things that require my full attention. It’s not the time to give myself to anyone, no matter how tempting."

He advanced one of his pawns, sacrificing it in a move that seemed to have a deeper purpose.

"Mnm..."

Mihawk studied the board for a moment, his expression thoughtful as he examined the few remaining options.

"I know exactly what I like—those who are strong, independent, and capable of holding their own. +

As long as you show up, I won’t complain about the lack of notice.

A faint smile crossed his face, a rare display of emotion as he noticed Shanks' decision not to take the bait. This time, he slid his bishop diagonally across the board, creating a new, subtle threat.

"It seems you have a type, then—those who keep you guessing."

Mnm... It looks comfortable and suits you.

I often find myself eager to unravel it... quietly, of course."

His fingers hovered over the board before moving a pawn forward, deliberately placing it within Shanks’ reach. It was a calculated risk, an invitation to capture if he dared.

"There’s something about the mystery of people that draws me in, +

It seems your crew has a commendable understanding of personal boundaries. Zoro, however, often keeps his thoughts as guarded as his sword. If he deems it worth sharing, he will—though I wouldn't hold my breath waiting for it.

Should I be impressed? Or are you looking for trouble already?

interesting when there’s still room for mystery, wouldn’t you agree?"

He shifted his knight once more, cornering one of Shanks' pawns and cutting off its freedom of movement. The calculated maneuver left no immediate threat but created pressure on the board, a subtle reminder of his strategic prowess.

"I've changed, certainly... But things are far more +

Choose the day and appear. You never announce your visits beforehand, after all.

He moved another pawn forward.

"You're right. In the time we've been apart, you must have changed quite a bit. Three questions won't be enough... but I'll address that later."

Beyond what Zoro went through during the two years apart from his crew... He must have also absorbed a bit of my bad influence along the way.

...I’ll accompany you to the location.