#zorororonoaretired

[seaoftales]

He stood there for a while, leaning against the doorframe, taking in the whole scenery. The few times he was in contact with Shakky after Ray had died, he did mention somebody new taking over, though he never thought too much of it. The business she so diligently established and grew over the decades deserved to thrive, and he was just glad she found somebody who could take over. Never in his wildest dreams, however, did he think it would be none other than the man who managed to surpass him so many years ago.

The comment had his lips twist into one of his rare smiles, the swordsman pulling himself away from the doorway and closing the door behind him. Luckily the place seemed to be empty, which would allow both of them to perhaps even reminisce about the past, if the whim striked them.

Mihawk took a seat at the bar, eyes never leaving Zoro. ❝ I suppose the world is yet to witness either of us perishing. ❞ He almost did, he was aware of that. Whether Zoro intended to barely let him live, a courtesy extended to him like he did to the boy all those years ago at Baratie, Mihawk didn't know, and perhaps it was pointless to ask. He also thought Zoro dead, the other simply vanishing from the face of the world without a trace. A mental note was made to eventually ask him about it, unless it naturally came up in conversation.

❝ I don't suppose my mother still has some of that fine red she keeps behind the counter? If not, give me whatever is your best poison around. ❞ Despite the years, Mihawk never lost his refine taste in good, red wine. Back in the day, Shakky would always keep a bottle or two behind the counter whenever her son decided to show his face.

❝ It is... good to see you, after so many years. ❞

@zorororonoa-retired / continued.