A Journey Begins Again [NDE/O]

[Jack D. Bane]

Jack lay in his small boat, too cheap to actually buy a real one. I mean, why not? It wasn't as if he cared about anyone's judgement. He was without his jacket on his body, rather having it lie across his legs. It was too hot of a day to be wearing it; he preferred to take some time and tan himself. Floating on the sea, as luck would have it, he noticed that he was awfully close to a dock. He sat up and stretched his arms out, a big yawn emitting from his mouth. "Ah, Cactus Island if I remember correctly." He pulled up to the dock and secured the boat, stepping onto the island. "Onward, then! To the pub!" He spoke to himself mostly but as he grabbed his jacket, took out a cigar and lit it, he smiled. He put the cigar into his mouth where it belonged and walked.

[Belle Wagner]

Under the brazen sun, swarmed by the immaculate rays of light stood and unjustified figure, swathed in dainty blacks and reds, raw white digits rhythmically pattering against each other. Indignant maroon orbs, cloaked behind thick red glasses, surveying the townsfolk with curios volition. A chaste grin plastered over his silken features, amusement held in his eyes, but his figure so motionless like a statue. Perched so high up in the sky, along the stone slabs of a building of some stories in height, gazing down on all those of normal lively hood. The character remaining so still for what seemed as centuries, unblinkingly, his sight not straying, as he awaited nothing but time. Welcoming it in fact to dwindle this day away to nothing. But his focus, not so solid as diamond or steel, began to crumble. Limbs quickly falling into motion, the figure drooping a little as the wiry figure slipped from the edge, the exhilarating winds curling around him as he allowed a smile widened over his face.

And in a perfect synchronization correcting his form, plated boots digging into the bare earth as the figure landed, erect, his expression shifting from joy to curiosity, with nothing left to direct his actions he had sparse ideas for a course of action. Now that he stood against the earth, one among the people, or not so much as a few eyes stared in bewilderment at his previous feet. Others more disguised glares, surely those who found this character a showoff. But quickly dismissing such jealousies, he began to take a steady step forward, his legs tingling and whining in rebellion, the troubles of being motionless so long attacking his body. He worked on still, his stride just as steady yet small as ever.

His eyes more interested with the path of dirt he traveled on, the many prints set into the ground. And when the path wore away to wood, his attention was stolen by the sky and what birds occupied it. Distractions were imminent to such a character, though he just as easily wafted through crowds. To a point, until he made a rather showy action of maneuvering around one male, with a spin of some type, only to find his foot now supported by the solidity of another mans foot. Taking a minute pause as he gazed upwards at the man, his face blank, before removing himself from the man's shoes. Childishly smiling as if it would lessen any annoyance and making amends, "Sorry sir." His words quick and tidy, though his gaze still set upon the figure, reading his expressions curiously, this was a sorely pathetic attempt for occupying time, but why not?

[Jack D. Bane]

Jack had been on his way to the pub to have a drink. That was all he had asked for. It was a pleasant day and the simplicities of life were clearly evident during such a day. Yet to his horror he found a supposed "regal" man who no doubt had to either be a noble or a Marine. Such cockiness disgusted Jack, no man should be that conceited. ~They're all the same, these men.~ They all walked the same way, as if they were the kings of the world. He didn't bother to flinch nor move as the childish-looking man stepped on his foot. It was a good thing he was wearing boots. He sighed, debating whether to cause such a scene. Legally he was a bounty hunter and unless the man could identify him he could most likely go along his way...

But they both knew that things weren't to be that easy. After all, such a man would rarely accidentally perform such a task. He smiled at the man, not yet backing down. "Of course, on with your day." He paused for a second, "My good sir, what might be your name?"

[Cross]

A pirate is meant to be heartless, emotionless - it is what makes a Pirate fearsome, and strong. However, if that was the case, it would be almost impossible to find motivation to fight as a pirate, a goal, a reason to fight, and be driven to kill. If that was the case, then there is a secret to piracy, a secret Cross would have to find before he could make himself the most fearsome pirate on the seas. A pirate who will find every valuable treasure, and defeat any opponent who was to step in the way of him, and the crew he would find himself with in the future.

However, the first thing was meant to be first. He had to get out of the ocean. He was still on a small, one man ship, and he had slowly made his way all the way to the Grand Line, eating scarcely, and evading encounters with the Navy. If a Pirate encountered him, he used his swift gun, and blade to handle the situation before he would be met with too much resistance. So far, so good - or at least that is what could be said. However, now that he was on the Grand Line, he knew that the situation would change. Things were not so easy as in the East Blue, meaning that he would have to fight real opponents in the future.

As the sun beat down on his head, Cross pulled his large hat over his head, looking out to the horizon, noticing the land coming up on him quickly. "Finally! There is some land! I can get my hands on some grub', and drink!" He shouted, as he stood up in his small ship, pulling his jacket onto his shoulders, as he stepped onto the side - only to make himself seem more elegant as he approached the shore. Jumping off, he reached the sand, pulling his small boat onto shore, as he turned around. Walking into the town, he noticed two people. A seemingly young noble, and a larger male standing in the area. The larger man seemed to have something on his mind, and the younger looking one seemed to have done something - perhaps something interesting. It was interesting enough for Cross to stop and watch, in any case.

[Belle Wagner]

Belle eagerly eyed the man as he tried to read any contortions of his facial structure, expectant eyes veiled behind shades capturing the every second. As no expression was supplied, only sheer indifference, but this reaction was not considered lacking. His interest triggered by this mans poise, what mentality had a man who could play so well with his expressions? Or perhaps he was merely that which was displayed, indifferent, something so rare among these days. He knew not who this man was, perhaps he never would, as the man so graciously accepted the apology and permitted his leave so lightly. His prompt response only generating that much more interest, perhaps his boredom was more than overwhelming, or his mind was as choppy as ever. But it was his turn to carry on, shifting an inch possibly before the man's words, directed at him a second time, came round.

And the voice joyed him, as the words flowed, buzzing about as he took a moment of thought, almost making it seem like he was possibly going to weave some sort of lie. Not that he needed nor really word, twisting his head a fragment as for them to both face each other, it was only polity, and offering a response. "Belle," pausing a moment as if he was allowing the words to soak in before adding his own curiosity, "and yours?" The words came out with a smile, as most did.

Maybe this sir would entertain his time for the moment? If fate would have it. His eyes darting a little to the side, as he spotted a figure rather conspicuous, his eyes caught on them, which was none too suspicious. And who do we have here?

[Jack D. Bane]

Jack read the man's body language, or at least attempted to. He had picked up some information on people after all this time. The young man definitely seemed relaxed and confident. But the way he carried himself was strange indeed. He stood erect, unlike most people these days. His posture was to be commended and his manners were exquisite. It only reinforced his first two assumptions as to who the man was. ~Belle, eh?~ That was a strange name, not one he often heard. In fact, this was a first. He would have preferred to not have had this encounter, his whitish turquoise being a color that wasn't all too common.

Yet here the man was entreating for a name, which was to be expected. Yet, Jack was hesitant, though he dare not show it in case it reap harmful consequences. Instead he smiled, the expression spreading and dancing on his previously stolid face. "Most people call me Jack." He didn't expect the young man to really recognize his name. Even if he were to be in the occupation of a Marine soldier, Jack's name had faded with time. In fact, he barely had a bounty on his head. But he liked it that way. It was why he had gone into the Bounty business.

Jack watched closely as Belle's eyes moved and being curious as to what could have caught this man's attention he turned to face the object of such "endearing affection." ~Ah, so it seems that we have an onlooker. By the looks of it, he's most likely a pirate.~ Jack wondered if pirates in this generation were generally that...stupid. To go out in such an absurdly obvious attire was to dig one's own grave. Jack inwardly shook his head, ~Poor kid.~ He returned his haze to Belle, wanting to move along. Though with his presence here he knew he was to be careful. "This has been a somewhat interesting encounter but if you don't mind, I'm off to have a drink." He stopped once again, however. Did he dare? "Unless that is, you wish to join me?"

[Cross]

This seemed to be an opportunity. The situation didn't get too much more interesting than it was, and so he was going to have to add an interesting twist onto the situation. One, to gather the information about his surroundings on the Grand Line, however there was also the aspect of being seen as another of the threatening pirates. Though he wasn't sure what image he wanted currently, learning of the people around him, and starting out with a shortage of enemies - in Cross' head couldn't possibly go wrong for him.

"Hey, you said somethin' about a drink, right? Sorry to intrude on yer' talkin' here, but i'm new round' here, and I wanted to know if I could tag along with y'all! Company couldn't hurt, ey'?" Cross blurted out, with a smile. He knew he was obviously a pirate, and had no intention on hiding that fact, however, he was banking on the fact that they probably wouldn't take him seriously, especially since he was acting more friendly than a pirate ever would under normal circumstances. However, this was Cross' method of investigation.

Stepping forward to find himself between the two speaking, he reached around, slowly pulling his right hand to his hat, pulling it off his head, and lowering it to his chest, holding his smile, as he parted his lips slowly - deciding that he was not going to be rude, and keep him name from the group. "If you were wondering, my name is Cross. Cross of the East Blue, at yer' service!"

[/justify]

[Belle Wagner]

As he gaze held quite finely on the man, as his gaze to them, the man going by the name Jack felt entitled to look as well. But as the man caught his own sight of the man, minus the slight pity leaking through his mask, he seemed to share little reaction with that man, that pirate. Which meant the odds of them being friends or such was less than likely, which only lead him to wonder who the man was. His orbs rather expecting, waiting for the man to approach, even before he came to movement.

But he pulled his attention away for a moment or so as he starred at the man before him, as it appeared, preparing to take his own leave. To a bar, what a pity that he was to part so soon, not that he hadn't been invited a moment later, but drinking was simply not his thing. He could not bear the taste of any liquor, as he noted from previous encounters with the fiend. So he, as always, shook his head at the offer and smiled sweetly. The invitation was kind, but no deal.

But in trade for the young officer, the man would possibly leaving with a pirate of the sorts. Butting in, the same man that had stared at them minutes past, inquiring as to their recent discussion and then trying to weasel his own way into the tour. Considering he wouldn't be influenced by this man's presence, being the one about to leave himself, it matter not to him. "Well then, I guess I'm off, thanks for amusing me for a little bit." His thanks offered to the man as he readied his foot behind him.

[Jack D. Bane]

Jack nodded, neither relieved nor disappointed at his polite rejection. He let his hands slide into his pant pockets and started on moving. He wondered how the young pirate would fair. He was definitely young and fresh, his name not registering to Jack in the least bit. But perhaps that would do well for him right now. It'd keep him out of trouble with Belle at least. He continued walking, now singing out loud, "Going to the pub, Going to the pub, thank god almighty, I'm going to the pub." He smiled to himself, that definitely wouldn't be the last time he'd see Belle. He was slowly getting involved with the Pirate World again, the life of a Bounty Hunter quickly boring him. He missed his days as White Jack: The WildCard Pirate. He entered the pub and sat down at the bar, "A straight shot of whisky, if you may." The pub was silent, the men staring at him to see what he would do. He lifted his glass once he got it and shouted out, "Way, hey, I'm drinking at the pub!" He took a shot of the whisky and slammed it down as the crown roared in acceptance.

[Cross]

Acceptance came to the Pirate quickly - the marine leaving as the entertainment faded, leaving Cross with the Bounty Hunter, whom didn't seem much like that at all. However, he allowed himself to enter the pub with the man, stopping as the eyes shifted all to his position. First they looked toward his weapons, which he choose not to hide, secondly to his face. Lifting his eye patch, he allowed a single glare to shoot to the citizens whom were staring, before their eyes moved away from him. Although Cross was a new pirate, it was clear when some people were outmatched, and thus Cross was deemed fearsome by the normal pub drinkers. Of course, there were still some who believed they could handle anything Cross had to offer.

"Yo, gimme something strong! And, don't ask how old I am! I'm old enough to die, so i'm old enough to live, yo." Cross shouted, as he quickly seated himself at the bar, being slid a drink he couldn't even begin to name, due to his lack of drinking, openly examining it, so that the others would assume he had the skills to pick out drugs in his drinks, before he drank it, all in one shot, his face shifting from the pain of the drink, though only the observant would be able to understand what exactly was going on. "Better then I thought the shit would be, I guess!" He shouted out, as a bit of an icebreaker to the people around him.

[Jack D. Bane]

As soon as Jack finished his first shot a new one was slid to him. He looked at the young pirare –if he could even be considered a pirate– and raised an eyebrow. "Cross, eh? The name's Jack." Jack didn't even bother considering taking the kid in for a bounty, as far as he was concerned, the kid had no bounty. "So, why would you come into a pub and quiet these folks? Especially when appearances are much more than meets the eye." Jack was well aware that though most men in the room had cowered in fear, it was all but an act, most of these men being veteran pirates. "Take a closer look, will ya?"

[Cross]

The man Cross followed into the pub finally spoke. What he did speak were words of wisdom. Words he didn't very well need. He heard the warning of the man, and shrugged it off, quite literally. He knew well that the pirates around him were veteran, however, he would easily consider himself the same. The East Blue wasn't so gentle to him as it could have been, and he emerged without a single scar - which would lead those with experience to believe he had none. Which would be deadly to them. However, one pirate, whom was tired of Cross' posturing decided to pull his large sword, and walk behind Cross, to take him out.

Cross only let out a smile, as the blade was thrusted at the back of his head. Cross knew very well what was coming, suddenly pulling his body to the side, the blade passing by, as he pulled his own with his right hand, pointing it at the neck of the other pirate. "I never caught your name, yo. But yeah, I figured they were faking. They'll learn to fear me eventually." He said, as he shooed the other pirate away, sheathing his rapier, before sitting down, swirling his second shot in it's cup.

[Jack D. Bane]

Jack sighed. This kid was going to get himself killed with his attitude. "It's best not to provoke a room full of pirates. Especially when there's a marine nearby just waiting for a reason to put you down. And trust me when I say that that Marine is out of your league. It's my job to be able to access the strength and skill of those I meet." He wasn't going to point out that he was a bounty hunter in room full of pirates. Hell no;that'd be stupid. That'd be something this kid would do. "So what brings you here, Cross of the East Blue? It's a long way from home, isn't it?"

[Cross]

The pirate was obviously being underestimated. He knew that there were marines, however, he also knew he was a master of escape. He felt like the majority of the pirates around him weren't even a threat, and thus he needn't worry about him - he was nothing short of a king. Tilting his head toward Jack, as he spoke, Cross let out a grin. Not a grin of arrogance, but a grin of experience.

"The East Blue isn't a nice place, but it was below me. The pirates there - the pirates everywhere off the Grand Scale are too low. I came here because I want to be a Grand Scale pirate before I return home, and make my mark. I want the battle scars I couldn't get on the East Blue. To prove myself. To become a part of a worthy crew. Perhaps even the captain - of course as the captain. I want the world, and the East wouldn't have gotten me it."

With those words, the pirate quickly swung his arm up, allowing the second shot to be engulfed within his body, as he leaned back. He was slightly tipsy, and that was more than enough. More, and it would ruin his ability to fight if the instance raised, and if it was to happen, he would make sure he could defeat his opponent.

[Jack D. Bane]

Jack wasn't the least bit impressed. He wasn't a cocky fellow, far from it. He was quite the humble man but it took a lot to impress him. He was sure Cross had good intentions but the way he carried himself was...too premature for the pirate life. He needed to permeate an aura of dominance if he wanted to be a pirate, let alone a captain. "Kid, there are those who want the world and there are those who conquer it and eat it in their wake. Those are the men who bare the right to be a captain. Those who have the power to consume worlds."