CHAPTER VI
Four days later, Canton Cay, West Blue...
The sun had begun to dart with its warm rays over picturesque Canton Cay, lying in a lush valley and surrounded by hills colored by the flowers of saffron, broom and heather, which caressed and protected it in their soft arms. In the center of it, there stood imperiously an old quadrangular bell tower of reddish stones and bricks crowned with battlements, similar in every way to those of the castles placed in the kingdoms that lined the route of the Grand Line.
A gentle breeze swayed the foliage of the trees around, carrying the melodic tones of the bells among the streets, which in a short time had become more populated and seemed more alive than ever.
As if lulled by the sweet dirges that echoed in the air, an eagle pervaded by the glowing sunlight soared above the tower, circling and flapping its cream-colored wings, before perching atop the wooden cross. As if she were a sentinel, it scanned its surroundings, turning its snowy head southward, as if something, or rather someone, had just focused its attention. She aimed her pupils black as night at the figure skulking through the dirty, muddy alleys, as if she were spasmodically searching for something.
He was of medium height, with a rather gaunt physique covered in filthy rags. But the thing that clashed badly with everything else was the thick hair he kept tied up in a ponytail, dark blue and alternating with some sapphire-colored locks that fell down his sides. In the midst of that mop of hair, a strange wisp of hair with a characteristic swirl shape sprouted from it.
«Hey, Silas!»
The call exploded behind him, causing him to turn sharply. A boy made signs to him, holding up two sticks.
«Taylor and his gang are heading for our territory!»
That name evoked not-so-pleasant thoughts in him. A thorn in his side, always ready to strike when one least expected it.
«You can tell the beating last time wasn't enough for him!» burst out laughing Silas going to join his friend «This time he's leaving us more than just his shirt»
He grabbed the stick thrown to him by his comrade on the fly, heading together with it toward that area of the Chebei district they were defending tooth and nail from the incursions of rival gangs. When they reached the alley that demarcated their area, Taylor and his clique were already there, lined up in two rows, ready to break into enemy territory.
But half of Silas's group had been alerted to their arrival, and they were already busily piling up empty crates and whatever else might be useful in setting up the barricade.
«Ah, there's Declan and Silas!» exclaimed a voice, relieved.
The defenders cheered their leader as soon as the former emerged from an alleyway full of garbage and matted cats. He brandished his staff with a roar, twirling it menacingly. And that was enough for his comrades to regain their self-confidence and feel ready to win even the most arduous of wars.
For his part, Taylor emitted a series of howls that were meant to somehow emulate the cries of some of the tribes scattered across the Blue Sea, for the sole purpose of striking terror into his opponents. His own imitated him, and the narrow street was filled with a great clamor composed of all sorts of wild shouts and cackles.
«Let them bark like mangy dogs,» Silas said «After they confront us, they will have barely enough breath to yelp and beg for mercy. Osman, go and call for reinforcements among our streets, we will need them anyway»
A roar of laughter rose from the barricade. And Taylor, that those brats were laughing at him and jeering didn't like it at all, so much so that enraged, he ordered his pack to advance, slowly and in a calculated manner, since it was more effective than a haphazard run and in the opinion of many, it increased the perception of the strength of the attack even in the assailant himself. It also gave the opponents time to be afraid.
Those who wielded sticks beat them on the ground; those who had stones beat them against each other. In response, the gang led by Declan rattled the barrels by hammering them with pieces of tin and chairs they had collected from an inner courtyard. Cats snoozing blissfully in front of the basement windows humped and hunkered down in the shadows. A gray dog ran skimming the walls, its tail between its paws.
Taylor stopped about 20 yards from the fortification. Even the drumming ceased. They peered at each other in silence. A stillness that ill concealed a certain note of menace. Sneers surfaced to their lips. It was a way of belittling the enemy and gaining courage.
«We will beat you to a pulp,» growled one of the assailants.
«Kiss my ass,» replied someone from the barricade.
«Kiss mine first!»
And there the first phase of the battle seemed to have finally begun. Words were the first to fly. Insults, threats. Sharp words that drove one mad with rage. Then it was the body's turn. Obscene gestures that fit perfectly into the full package of challenges and intimidation typical of savages.
Then, like a bolt from the blue, a stone was thrown forcefully, clashing against the barrels, followed closely by many others. The defenders, not well armed, fired back with rotten fruit. It was even better than rocks. Although it caused less pain, once it hit the target it smashed into his face, spreading over his eyes and mouth.
According to Claude, that is, the one who had proposed such an idea, a nice fruit smashing on the forehead was just what was needed to stop a blowhard on the spot. Moreover, it didn't make one look good either.
That was probably what Taylor thought at that moment, observing his own chest soiled with cabbage leaves purposely stuffed with dog droppings. He felt a fury flare up. At that point a wave of rage caused the ranks to rise up and vehemently throw themselves against the fort. The fruits continued to shatter like glass, yet failed to contain the onslaught.
«But where the hell are the reinforcements?» wondered Declan, worried.
«You say I should resort to 'what you know'?» asked Silas of him. It was clear what he was referring to, but the gang leader gave him a somewhat puzzled expression
«Are you crazy?» he asked almost in a whisper, for fear of being overheard «Do you have any idea what would happen? Anyone who has eaten a devil fruit is frowned upon in these parts, you should know better»
Meanwhile, Taylor's warriors scaled, overturned, and penetrated the barrier. Declan, after shooting another glare at the boy, ordered a strategic retreat as the barrels rolled to either side of the downhill alley.
Gripping his staff firmly with both hands, Silas struck out left and right, smacking the leg of one and smacking the arm of another, so as to buy valuable time that his people could use to rally and for reinforcements to come to their aid. His opponents avoided a head-on collision; rather, they sought every way to go around him.
«You almost fight like a lion, Silas,» Taylor admitted, «But this time neither you nor Declan can stop me from winning. We'll knock you to the ground and pluck you like a chicken. I'll even take your underpants, in case you have them under those worn-out robes like that, as a trophy! You will go home naked as a worm»
The boy backed away through clenched teeth, his hands clasped on his cane.
«Sil don't be stupid!» exclaimed a voice from behind the barricade. This time, the speaker was Idris, another orphan who had found refuge in Declan's group no less than a year ago, when he miraculously escaped the massacre of his family by bandits. He had fit in well in that straggling company of strays, immediately forging a strong bond with the cobalt-haired boy.
«Let them dare» Silas retorted swaggeringly «They will taste the point of my weapon» A smirk peeped on his face «And not on a foot or a hand»
He was no longer defending the street, he was protecting himself, what had now become his home, and those who constituted more than family to him. Standing up like a cobra ready to attack, he whistled. His breath became a trickle of air, a hiss between his teeth. His eyes blazing like flames leapt from one boy to another.
Who would be the first to attack?
His ostentatious calm seemed to betray him, as small tremors had begun to take hold of him, probably at the mere thought of what was soon to happen. Suddenly there was the sound of a swarm of greenhorns running and screeching. Reinforcements, at last. They had bypassed the houses to swoop in to charge from behind.
«Well done, Osman,» rang Declan's voice, «Sweep this scum away.»
His attackers turned to look, which Silas took advantage of to mow down Taylor with a masterful leg shot, then slamming his weapon into his rival's head, knocking him unconscious. His gang meanwhile had pounced on the enemy and the sticks clashed, amid shouts and groans. A shower of slaps, punches and scratches had as if poured down on them.
At that instant, the wine merchant emerged from a nearby alley with his barrel «For God's sake!» he exclaimed «How have you reduced my barrels? I'll show you what happens when you beat each other like scoundrels!» railed the poor man, his fist raised and his gaze furious
«Scoundrels! Scoundrels! Scoundrels! Get lost before I bludgeon you!»
All of a sudden reverting to being just a whirlwind of children, the two gangs dispersed at a gallop through the streets. Neither won nor lost. Only the adult had recaptured the space in front of his store and as soon as he dismounted from his barrow, he proceeded to heckle his clerks for allowing those kids to use the barrels to play war in the streets. It took kicking their butts and punching for them to regain some sense.
Silas still reeling from the euphoria of the moment, ran like a madman, turning for the island's harbor, although he did not have time to notice that someone else was also coming from the opposite direction, which inevitably resulted in a rather dry thud that echoed against the concrete walls of the bay.
«Watch where you're going, boy!» grunted that individual.
He was a man with a slender physique and almost sparse hair, a brown color, more towards burgundy. He was wearing a shirt with a V-neck and long slate-colored pants.
«I'm sorry, sir» Silas replied, scratching the back of his head almost in embarrassment, «I just didn't see you»
The man quickly gave himself a quick wipe-down and holding out his hand, helped him up «Having your head in the clouds is a mistake that in a world like ours we can't afford,» he said seriously «Especially if it's a wren like you who pays the price»
Silas carefully examined the strange individual, noting how a white jacket fitted with golden epaulets was slung over his shoulders. He soon realized, that the fellow in front of him belonged to the Marine, the World Government organ that was responsible for maintaining peace and order in the seas around the world, and was fiercely fighting against one of the most hostile plagues to befall the Blue Sea, piracy.
«Thank you for the advice,» replied the boy, rather intimidated by the one in front of him and the aura he exuded, giving himself one more look at his tattered robes and preparing to leave in the direction of the Dancing Squid , where he hoped Declan and the others had taken refuge.
«Just a moment!» thundered the man, jolting him «May I know who I have had the honor of meeting?»
«My...My name is Silas» he muttered.
He was convinced that the man had come there to arrest him and his little friends. It was probably old Jian who had blurted it out, since they had dared to steal fresh bread from his pantries, or Bill the stable boy, whose hay barrow they had assaulted. It could have been any of them, why not? Almost half the district's population was now exasperated by their misdeeds; therefore, the Marine would have been the quickest and easiest response to stem the growing discontent due to the youth gangs.
«Silas, huh?» he wondered as he ran a hand over his lips, there where the boy saw a deep scar starting from his chin and extending to his left nostril «Really nice name» continued the Marine «I guess it has some kind of meaning.»
«Probably» he replied, shrugging. His intent was to try to show absolute indifference, or at least not to look terrified, but the Marine's appearance and his manner, so calm and authoritative, certainly did not make it easy for him.
«By the way, Silas, what are you doing around here?» the man asked him again, «Don't you know it's dangerous for someone like you to wander around all by yourself? Where are your parents?» It was as if he was subjecting him to a kind of interrogation disguised as good manners.
«We may never know,» retorted the boy, breaking into a bitter smile, but observing the man's confused expression, he tried to explain himself quickly «I've been an orphan for a couple of years now, although Jenkins, the man to whom I was entrusted, tries to cheer me up as best he can. In fact, I was just on my way to buy bread for me and the old man, before we collided, of course.»
He lied, even though he knew what he was up against if he found out. However, he knew Chebei like her own pocket and the man had never seen him anywhere, so he was convinced as he was that a mere outsider, however, he still couldn't completely rule out the possibility that he had come to capture him, Declan and the others, so he had to try to play it smart.
«Very well,» replied the man, observing him again questioningly, «But be 'careful how you move. A most dangerous criminal lurks in these parts, guilty of numerous crimes and atrocities. Therefore, it is advisable that once you have successfully run your errands, you head as quickly as possible to your dwelling and stay there. You must not leave for any reason in the world, at least until that scoundrel has been sentenced to capital punishment. Understood?»
Silas nodded, although numerous questions began to crowd his mind. Who was the criminal mentioned and what was he doing here, in Canton Cay? He should have quickly reported everything to Declan and the others.
«Besides,» the Marine resumed speaking, «I guess you have already guessed what I am. I ascertained that from the way you looked at me just now. So, yes, I will answer your question. My name is Hyram Chase, I am a Marine officer with the rank of Vice Admiral, and I am here to protect the unsuspecting citizens of this idyllic city from the clutches of a scoundrel of the worst kind, so, you need not fear me. I am part of the good guys,» he concluded, lifting his thumb as if to reassure him.
«Okay...Okay» commented he still a little shaken.
«And now you have permission to take your leave,» declared the Vice Admiral, breaking into a smile, «Scram»
Silas didn't make himself repeat it twice and after walking a few yards and turning the corner, he set off at lightning speed toward the inn.
He had to tell his friends everything.
***
The tavern was located in the deepest part of the neighborhood, hidden among winding alleys and lanes. A small pier allowed boats to dock there. Above, attached to one of the pillars that supported the building, hung a sign with the tavern's name: The Dancing Squid . A few street lamps illuminated the porch from which a loud racket came.
Voices, laughter and music, spilling from the windows seemed to portray a place as lively as it was populated.
Silas pushed open the door, finding himself before a spectacle that had become familiar: regulars who looked like men it would be wise never to cross paths with on a dark night, engaged in banquets, wild dances, animated discussions, and a variety of parlor games, some at cards, some at dice. Beer and other types of alcohol flowed freely, no doubt to dull the minds of those who were careless enough to cross that threshold. The aroma of fresh seafood mingled with the stench of rotten wood and rancid sweat, wholly deadening the air.
Yo-hohoho, Yo-hohoho!
Yo-hohoho, Yo-hohoho!
Yo-hohoho, Yo-hohoho!
Yo-hohoho, Yo-hohoho!
Going to deliver Binks' Sake!
Following the sea breeze! Riding on the waves!
Far across the salty depths! The merry evening sun!
The birds sing as they draw circles in the sky!
A stocky, ruddy big man, bundled up in a leather jacket and with a shaved head dominated the scene, standing next to a table right in the center of the room, raising a goblet aloft in an effort to urge everyone to toast and intone the same song. To his invitation, the diners on the other side of the hall replied in chorus: a few bronze-skinned fellows dressed in a most unlikely manner who were waiting to be served.
In one corner of the venue, two men wrapped in a long green cloak presided over a lavish banquet before which a long queue thronged, the two appearing to be collecting bets or subscriptions for who knows what cause. Meanwhile, on the opposite side, a woman with thick reddish hair and a suspicious appearance was holding court, attracting the interest of many.
At the back, on a small stage, an orchestra of musicians played wildly, while the crowd, as if in a trance, indulged in a frenetic and excited dance. Chaos reigned supreme and no one seemed to notice a little brat who made his way through the crowd with extreme nonchalance, directed towards the counter, where Samuel Brauer, the bartender, was busy cleaning a glass with a dirty rag. A cliché that could not be missing in a place like that. The cloud from the cigarette she held between her teeth obscured his half-closed eyes. However, there seemed to be no trace of Declan and the others.
Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.
The boy climbed up on a red, cracked stool, promptly placing a glass in front of the man «A nice round of milk for the troubled souls, Sam.»
The bartender merely crushed the butt in the glass ashtray placed to his right, and when the one then lifted his head, he burst into a rather boisterous laugh «Just milk? What are you, a damn cat?»
«Wow, original,» Silas replied, waiting for Brauer to pour his drink, «Has anyone ever told you that you are about as funny as sand in your underpants?»
Samuel looked at him crookedly «Not one who was still alive to tell the tale» then, he observed as Silas took a sip, swallowing nervously, finally exploding after a long pause in which the tension seemed palpable, into a thunderous laugh, showing all his yellowish, chipped teeth, except for one incisor, golden. «You should have seen your face, it almost looked like you were about to wet yourself.»
His voice had a sound similar to the crackling of billiard balls when they beat against each other.
Silas smiled mischievously, «It's a good thing you don't have a mirror, otherwise you would know what condition you pour your own face into.»
Brauer chuckled again «Ladies and Gentlemen, the show was graciously brought to you by Silas, the shrewdest and sharpest tongue in all of Canton Cay,» he said as he stretched out his arms and pointed at him, although no one was paying attention to the hilarious picture, drunk and busy with other activities as they were «I'll give you that, you've got guts despite being a brat.»
The boy took another sip, wiping his lips with the back of his hand «Well, you know how it is, my dear Sam, someone has to keep things interesting around here. We can't just let the adults have all the fun, can we?»
Samuel leaned against the counter, crossing his arms «Fair enough. By the way, how come you're all alone today?» he asked, pouring him another glass «Where did your inseparable clique of misfits get to?»
Silas shrugged his shoulders «I'm not sure, actually. I was convinced that after what happened down at the wine shop, they rushed straight here, which I did, too. I wouldn't want anything to have happened to them.»
He decided not to mention his encounter with the Vice Admiral, since the people who frequented this rather rough area had no particular liking for the uniform and preferred not to attract any more trouble.
Samuel chuckled and shook his head, «Don't worry, if there's one thing I know it's that you're pretty smart guys for someone to outwit you so easily, so you shouldn't worry about it too much, maybe they'll have taken refuge in some of your hiding places. You have some, yes?»
The boy nodded, although a note of concern could still be seen on his face.
«However,» Brauer continued, «It seems that this time old Winston is on a rampage about what you have done to his precious barrels. I wouldn't want him to be planning to commit something incredibly stupid.»
Silas raised an eyebrow «Something like shooting us?»
«That wouldn't be such a bad idea after all,» sighed the man, setting down to wipe the counter at the exact spot where moments earlier two rather tipsy patrons had spilled a purplish, seemingly viscous liquid.
Silas gave him an annoyed expression «I mean around here people kill each other for a lot less" tried to explain himself to the man «By the way, if you can find Declan, tell him he still owes me 1000 belly. That guy has an unparalleled talent for forgetting his debts.»
«Are you perhaps saying that I too am in danger of coming to a bad end?»
Brauer laughed «In a way, we can say that.»
«Well, why don't you put it all on Jenkins's tab, as usual?» asked Silas, pointing to a man in his seventies with a thick beard, who, particularly elated, was hanging out with two comely girls, holding tightly in his hands a half-empty mug of beer. This was the same guy that Silas had mentioned during his conversation with Vice Admiral Chase «Anyway, drunk as he is, I don't think he can complain about it»
«Oh, you think you're smart, huh?» retorted Brauer with a smirk, squeezing the rag into a bucket on the floor behind the bar.
«Well, I learned from the best»
«Not a bad answer» He opened the damp dishcloth, shook it and spread it out to dry on a beer keg «But you still have a lot to learn if you hope to one day reach the open sea»
«What do you know about that?»
Brauer pulled an arabesque silver lighter out of his right pocket, lighting the cigarette he had provided moments earlier between his teeth and blowing the smoke into the boy's face «More than you could ever imagine. But that's a story I'll tell you only if you prove you have what it takes»
Silas tried to ignore what the man meant and turned back to Jenkins, noting how the old man had become bolder than a few minutes ago, as he was now attempting to embrace the two maidens, probably with purposes that were anything but chaste.
«Jenkins, you old idiot of a sailor,» the bartender resumed him, «Stop bothering the customers, or you risk them never setting foot in here again. At least wait until they've had at least one consumption. Fucking alcoholic» he then ended up cursing under his breath.
«So,» Silas intervened, again rolling his head toward the man and frantically drumming his fingers on the pinkish, splintered wood, trying unsuccessfully, however, to tone it down, «What news do you bring from the slums?»
Brauer sucked in a long puff from the cigarette and exhaled slowly, watching the swirls of smoke vanish into the void «Get lost. A brat like you shouldn't meddle in these grown-up matters.»
«Antipathetic,» muttered Silas, looking grimly at Brauer «I hate it when people treat me like I'm just another kid, especially if you're the one doing it.»
The man in response sucked in one last puff and extinguished the fag in the ashtray, which was overflowing with numerous other dark ones, crushed and squeezed with voluptuousness, bursting shortly after into laughter «You are a child. What else are you supposed to be? Let's hear it.»
«Someone much smarter and more skilled than he appears. Someone who so far has always managed to get away with any situation that has presented itself, even without the help of my friends»
«That's true,» replied the bartender, examining for a few seconds the determined expression painted on the boy's face, something capable of counteracting even the snide remark addressed to him just now.
«I may be small and young, Samuel,» the boy continued, slamming a hand on the table, though not so loudly as to attract the attention of the others, «But I'm not naïve about it. I've seen more than you think, and the others are no less. So speak up."
«You don't know and you haven't seen anything yet, believe me,» retorted the other «You don't have the slightest idea of what lurks outside the confines of Canton Cay. But if you insist, I certainly don't see why I should be the one to back down. True, you will learn information that someone would be willing to kill to obtain, but it is at your own risk. Just avoid in the future to start making a scene, I don't want my customers to mistake a serious establishment like this for a kindergarten. Understood?»
Silas nodded, «Perfectly. Now, spit it out.»
Brauer looked around circumspectly, his gaze darting from one customer to another, making sure no one was sober enough to eavesdrop on their conversation. After a few more moments of hesitation, he leaned forward, resting his elbows on the counter while beckoning the boy to approach further. Silas obeyed, until he was close enough to sniff his breath, a mixture of stale tobacco and garlic.
«Listen carefully, boy,» Brauer began. He had greatly diminished the volume of his own voice so that it almost resembled a whisper «Strange rumors are circulating, whispers carried on the wind. Rumors such as have put even Marine Headquarters and the Cipher Pol in an uproar.»
Silas opened his eyes wide in amazement «Even?»
He was well aware of how the Marine and the Cipher Pol, a secret intelligence organization, were not the type to be alarmed over simple and useless trifles. So the situation must have been quite serious.
Brauer nodded, «Apparently. These rumors speak of dangerous and feared types. Individuals of frightening strength, enough to make even the most hardened criminal's skin crawl, who would be moving all over Canton Cay.»
«Dangerous types? What do you mean by that? Who are they?»
The sequel of questions came out of his mouth like a raging river before he could even realize it. What Brauer had said seemed as if it had paralyzed him, for except for his mouth, he felt as if a mysterious force was blocking every inch of his body. Terror had as if taken possession of him.
Brauer paused for a moment, weighing his words and casting a glance outside, trying to detect prying ears «I have not been able to gather any further details, but it seems that these guys have always been used to plotting and moving in the shadows. That is why I am extremely convinced that in the coming days the situation in Canton Cay will get hotter and more chaotic.»
Silas looked even more agitated «Do you think Declan and the others encountered them while trying to cross town?»
Brauer shook his head «I highly doubt it and it is rather unlikely that such individuals would have any interest in picking on unsuspecting boys. Also, according to my sources, it seems that Marine Headquarters decided to send Vice Admiral Chase on their trail, as he is considered on par with a monster in strength and skill. It seems that he was seen no less than a few hours ago in the Nansha area.»
Silas swallowed, now fully understanding why a guy like a Vice Admiral was prowling around there and that what he had told him seemed to find confirmation with what Brauer was reporting to him.
«And I'm willing to bet that Cipher Pol has decided to send some agent here, too,» he looked away again, as if to check something out «And I'm convinced he's already arrived on the island. He might even be here right now, mingling in the crowd like any other man»
«But why Canton Cay of all places? What's so special about it?»
«And what we're all trying to figure out,» Brauer replied again, «it's a pretty dangerous and abstruse game we're about to take part in. But one thing is certain, if all these figures are converging here, it means that something very dark is at work, and I don't like that at all.»
«Shouldn't we do something about it? What do I know, tell someone who can avert this threat?»
Silas's mind seemed crowded with a thousand thoughts as he scrutinized Brauer's face becoming even more serious than it was «No, absolutely. And now open your ears wide, boy. This information is not to be shared with anyone, not even your friends. Is that clear?» He silenced Silas with a gesture that he wanted to retort, then added, «I don't want them to be alarmed and thus run the risk that they will desist from completing the new assignment I plan to give you.»
The boy's eyebrows furrowed in confusion «New assignment? What is it about?»
«You have to deliver a package to the west area, nothing so complicated» Brauer hinted a smirk «In fact, for you it should be like stealing some candy from old Seymour's store, nothing more. So are you in?»
«I have to talk it over with the others first. Although I think they will all agree with me to do this task only if the pay is good.»
«You have my word, boy," Brauer laid a hand on his own chest, «And you see to it that you keep yours about what we said to each other. Also, although you did not explicitly say so, no, I assure you that you will be in no danger.»
«That's the way I like you, Brauer,» smiled Silas.
«Ladies...and Gentlemen...Your attention, please.»
They both turned their attention to the scene unfolding in the center of the room: Jenkins, in the throes of the wildest intoxication, had climbed onto a table, raising his goblet in the direction of the room.
«Jenkins, now you're going too far. Get down from there before you make a complete fool of yourself,» Brauer put a hand to his face as Silas laughed himself silly.
«I will tell you a story,» declared the old man, completely ignoring the bartender, «A story of courage and fervent belief in one's ideals and dreams. I will take you back in time to a time when the seas were plied by pirates and outlaws eager to prove themselves, challenging and risking their lives every day to satisfy the thirst for freedom that gripped them. And among these righteous and upright men, we cannot but remember the one who has rightfully entered into legend. A man who had the audacity to stand up to those who bullied and was regarded as a heinous criminal and persecuted by the Marine and the special forces of the World Government. I am talking about Guilleme Hank.»
A murmur of amazement swirled among the spectators, even Silas was looking forward to hearing the exploits of this extraordinary pirate.
True, his lifelong myth was Leon, and he missed no opportunity to repeat to anyone who would listen that he wished to cast off his moorings and attain the same fame and importance as his idol, although it was a far-from-achievable dream, but one way or another he would try. However, he did not disdain to hear the stories of men who had helped shape the great era in which he himself lived, and then Jenkis, although he was rather tipsy, was considered a skilled and appreciated speaker.
«Hank was a man of exceptional temperament,» Jenkins continued, «Many say that before he became a filibuster, he was a simple sailor of fortune, embarking like many to seek his fortune across the sea. Others, even believed that he was the illegitimate son of a ruler of a powerful and prosperous North Blue kingdom, still others that he had connections of an unknown nature with some important government official. In any case, they all agree that at some point in his life, when he discovered the many injustices the Marine had been guilty of, he decided to rebel. He thus began to plunder in the company of other buccaneers the ships that carried heavenly tribute and to take sides against the rulers he said were corrupt. His fame quickly spread throughout the Blue Sea, and his face became a symbol and a threat to the entire system.»
The old Jenkins took a breath and took another sip before continuing «However, on one of his raids, he was betrayed by the one he regarded as a brother and comrade-in-arms and turned over to the Marine. Although, a few weeks later, while being taken to Impel Down, the fleet was overwhelmed by a sudden storm, which gave Hank a way to get to safety, but not before he recruited a crew made up of his fellow prisoners and commandeered one of their ships. He was not the type to slink off like a rabbit, and he wished his executioners to be taught a lesson they would not so easily forget» A smirk appeared on his wrinkled face, furrowed by a few scars that his thick beard could not hide «With the favor of the raging gale, Hank emerged from the murky, dark waters, bearing down with the fury of a raptor on his unsuspecting enemies, who were bewildered by the sudden turn of events. The battle grew fiercer and fiercer, until the Aquila Maris , as her ship had been renamed, succeeded in sinking the fleet. Hank then returned home with bountiful booty and renewed freedom.»
Jenkins paused for a moment, he knew how best to dose suspense «...But do you think the World Government would shut up and let such an affront go unpunished? No, sir. It increased the bounty hanging over his head and sent numerous teams led by a powerful Admiral, with the aim of eliminating him for good. But Hank was a man too smart, shrewd and able to adapt to any situation to fall into such traps. To this day he is still a wanted man, and no one knows where he is or if he is still alive.»
When he finished the story, he took a little bow, being greeted by numerous warm applause, even Silas stood up and cheered fervently. This was exactly what he longed for more than anything else, to experience adventures like this and to meet so many multifaceted personalities, as well as to battle opponents of extraordinary strength.
«It seems that today he was more inspired than usual,» stated someone leaning against the counter. Silas turned toward the man, carefully examining the individual he had beside him: he was a tall, sturdy man, balding and with a henna-dyed stubble that made his face, leathery and dark, look even darker.
This was none other than Finch, another of the Dancing Squid 's regulars.
«Yeah,» replied Brauer as he poured scotch into the glass the man took, probably already knowing what the man was going to order «But for what it's worth, if nothing else he can entertain customers, a quality anyone in my business particularly appreciates.»
«And you don't even pay for it,» the man said, bringing the filled glass to his lips «You are a despicable man, Mr. Brauer.»
«Come on,» replied the latter in a light tone, «It is already something if I allow him to hugely raise his elbow completely on credit. Besides,» he added with a sly smile, «You too could contribute something sometime. An old sea dog like you knows plenty of stories to take your breath away.»
«Nah» Finch took another sip, this time a longer one, swirling the liquid within it before continuing «I don't think it would be worth it. Times have changed considerably now since I served aboard the Fancy , and even the Marine, which before Leon's defeat would never have dared to make such moves, has become bolder with each passing day. Moreover, the new recruits are as disrespectful and lacking in the spirit that characterized this era as ever, so much so that even a poor decrepit man like me is thrown into despondency.»
«And stop with this negative attitude,» blurted out the bartender, then pointing to the little boy sitting to Finch's right «Or you risk our Silas feeling demoralized. You know, he would like to be a pirate.»
«Don’t even tell me» Finch drank all in one gulp what was left in his glass, then turning his head toward Silas «Tell me boy, does what this boaster said ring true? Do you want to pursue a career as a buccaneer?» he asked, casting him an inquiring glance
«Watch how you address yours truly, Mr. Finch or I might seriously take it personally,» retorted the other with a grin.
Meanwhile, Silas, who seemed as if lost in thought, raised his head, nodding decisively.
Finch snickered, «Well, I hope you have what it takes, kid. Being a pirate is not just what is told in fairy tales and legends. It means living a hard life, full of danger and uncertainty, moreover, you would always have the Marine and the World Government on your tail, not to mention all the daunting challenges you would have to face along the way. Given these premises and the fact that you don't really seem like the type, you would risk losing your life before you even set sail.»
Three guys who were sitting nearby burst into thunderous laughter, and Finch also resumed snickering, but not him, he had remained perfectly calm and still.
«Come on, don't listen to him Silas,» Brauer declared, wiping his sweat-soaked forehead «He's just a poor idiot» He paused for a second, only to crumble with laughter immediately afterwards
«I'll prove you wrong!» exclaimed the boy, settling a fist on the wood of the table.
Suddenly the laughter subsided and a muffled silence descended on the room as everyone's attention focused on the small figure who had climbed onto the counter and turned toward the crowd, even Finch, who had stopped giggling, gave the boy a somewhat quizzical expression.
«Listen carefully, I will show you all who I am. I may not fully reflect what it means to you to be a true pirate, but I assure you that I will try my best to achieve my dream. I will not allow anyone to stand in my way, not even the most feared scoundrel of the Blue Sea» The irises seemed as if enveloped in flames «And on that day not far away, I will return and you will come on your knees before me, asking me to grant you forgiveness.»
Finch smiled, «Well, that's the spirit, boy. But, as you well know, words are of little use. If you're going to get serious, you're going to need more than just a few sound bites, don't you think?»
Silas clenched his fists «I said I'm going to be the best in the whole Blue Sea and I intend to keep that promise, should it be the last thing I do.»
«Well, I guess we'll just have to take your word for it then,» Brauer affirmed, placing a large bottle of liquor on the table. «In any case, we'd better celebrate Silas and his ambitious goal before we might regret it. A free ride for everyone!!!» he exclaimed enthusiastically, causing the patrons to cheer, who raised their glasses facing the boy and sang songs that everyone in the West Blue knew by heart.
«If I may, I'd like to give you some advice,» Finch whispered to him once the boy returned to his seat, moving closer and resting a hand on his back, «Find good, trustworthy comrades who will stand by your side at all times, even in the most dramatic situations, and who have the guts to throw themselves into the fray when the situation calls for it. In short, friends who can always be counted on. Besides, if you don't want to come to the same miserable end that awaits all those who dream of facing the sea, you'd better start thinking outside the box, believe me, I know it all too well,» he concluded, winking at him
«Thank you, sir. I’ll treasure it,» Silas replied.
«You'd better» retorted the man giving him a slap.
In the midst of the festivities, the door of the Dancing Squid swung open, and a man entered. He was tall and slender, clad in an orange-colored poncho whose edges were trimmed in various triangle patterns, his head protected by a wide-brimmed brownish hat.
Numerous murmurs and whispers filled the air as the mysterious man walked confidently toward the counter. Silas seemed almost mesmerized by the enigmatic individual, and not even the others nearby dared to utter a word.
«How may I serve you, sir?» asked Brauer politely.
In response, the man's gaze traveled the entire room, reviewing the faces of those who occupied it, before settling on the bartender «A bottle of your best rum,» he finally replied. His voice was almost as intimidating as his appearance.
«Of course» he replied, turning around and taking from the shelf placed to his right a glass bottle «Anything else you wish?» he asked immediately afterwards
«I need some information.»
The man laid some money on the counter, along with a rectangular-shaped object, something that looked for all intents and purposes like a photograph.
The bartender eyeballed the bills, then the photograph «What kind of information?»
«Have you ever seen this man?»
He examined her carefully, then shook his head, «No, I'm sure I've never seen him. As a matter of fact, he doesn't even look like he's from around here, so I'm sorry. How come you are looking for him?»
The stranger stowed the photograph in his right pocket, leaving the money behind, however, before opening the bottle and taking a sip «Personal business»
«Uh, well, whatever you say. Is there anything else I can do for you, sir?»
«No," replied the stranger dryly, «Unless you can tell me the quickest route to the Nancun district, you are of no use to me.»
On hearing what the man had just said, many people gave him strange looks. Brauer himself seemed quite confused about his request.
The Nancun district was known to be an even more hostile and lawless territory than the others, even Silas knew well how dangerous it was to set foot there, so much so that he wondered if the man was very brave or perhaps very stupid.
«What manners» Brauer cleared his throat, composing himself before continuing «Well, once you are out of here, continue north past about seven blocks and turn left. Then proceed straight again until you come upon a huge old bell tower. Pass it and continue until you come near an intersection, there turn right and go straight for a couple more blocks. At that point, Nancun will be right before your eyes,» he explained
«Gracias» The man gave him a brief nod with his hat, before turning on his heel and walking undaunted out of the club.
«You bumptious son of a gun» Brauer then mumbled, putting the money in his apron pocket and passing the cloth over the counter «On the other hand, though, you can hardly say he wasn't generous with the tip.»
«What an odd fellow,» commented Silas «I wonder who he was.»
«Don't ask questions you might regret » Finch replied to him «Unless you want to get into a big hornet's nest.»
«I can take care of myself, trust me» he retorted stubbornly «But...did you know that guy?»
«I knew him, yes» replied Finch pouring himself some liquor «Only a fool or a clueless person wouldn't know who he is, or and in this case, even petulant brats»
«Come on, now, don't make me beg you,» he insisted.
«Eh, all right» he sighed defeatedly «That sinister-looking guy was Ramón Holliday» he affirmed, pouring himself two more fingers of that liquor. He savored its strong taste and moistened his lips, then continued «Also known as 'Black Bullet' . A dangerous and feared bounty hunter. It is said that he is tireless and will stop at nothing to complete his set goal. If he is here, it means the situation is far more serious than I imagined.»
«Wow! I wonder if he is really that strong.»
«But then you're not listening to me!» blurted Finch «You really are a stubborn, reckless brat.»
Just then, someone peeped through the crack in the slightly ajar door. It was a little boy about the same age as Silas. He had thick, tousled, shiny hair the color of chestnuts and equally dark eyes.
«Declan?!» exclaimed Silas in surprise.
«Yep, your dear friend Declan, who had been looking for you relentlessly for hours.»
«But where the hell had you and the others gone?» rebuked Silas.
«Long story" cut the other short «Now hurry up, we're busy."