Is that so? Then I’ll be sure to spare you from any unnecessary harshness today. Consider it a rare occasion.

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

//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."

"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.

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?

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.

"You’re both welcome." He allowed a rare, quiet chuckle to escape, the thought of Zoro expressing excitement amusing him. It wasn’t the swordsman’s style, after all. "It’s true. He rarely shows much, though I’ve observed he’s a soft man beneath all that stoicism."

"There are few things you don’t already know about me." Mihawk’s hand reached for the knight. He moved it across the board, capturing one of Shanks’ pawns. The move was bold yet calculated, creating pressure on the center while maintaining the knight’s mobility—a hallmark of his strategic approach.

@ofdemonicswords.bsky.social We should meet soon, Roronoa. It might be time to resume our training, or perhaps we could simply have a drink and talk.

"You're overthinking, Sanji. You shouldn't trouble yourself so much over these things." Mihawk's tone remains calm, though there's a faint trace of amusement in his words as he shifts his focus briefly, as if lost in thought. "It’s been quite some time since I last saw Zoro, +

The swordsman considered Shanks' proposition with a faint nod, his sharp eyes focused on the board. "Very well. The terms are set." He reached out, moving a pawn forward with precision. For Mihawk, chess was more than a game—it was a reflection of the player's mind. +

I can’t help but wonder how long this peace will last.

He watches with admiration as Shanks carefully considers his move, appreciating the calmness and seriousness in his approach. For Mihawk, calmness is second nature, and it remained unchanged as he made his first move, moving the piece with the same tranquility he always possessed. "If I win, +

//I’m even more expensive. Save up to visit me in Europe soon.

He glances at the board for a moment, his eyes scanning each piece before shifting his gaze to Shanks. "Black."

//I'll get back to replying to the interactions here soon. I spent the night busy searching for a plane ticket to visit Kael's mun. Now I'm officially broke 💧

// hello~ ✨ If I open commissions, would you buy my art?

He raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at his lips. "I suppose we’ll find out soon enough."

I see in Luffy the same determination you’ve always had. He carries that same fire in his heart, and I have no doubt that, with that passion, he will claim the title of Pirate King, just as you carved your own path to where you are now.

Good. I’d hate for you to use forgetting as an excuse when you inevitably lose.

"The hat holds a legacy, yes, but it’s the wearer who truly gives it meaning. Luffy’s spirit does seem to match it well, doesn’t it?" He gave a small, almost approving nod. "It looks good on him."

With a measured motion, he stepped closer, straightening the brim slightly and then taking a moment to observe. "Hmm... It doesn’t suit you as well as your straw hat... but I’ll admit, it’s not entirely unflattering."

Since you seem so fond of my hat, perhaps I should consider lending it to you on such occasions.

A rare laugh escaped him, a quiet, fleeting sound that softened his usually stoic demeanor. "Your hair and smile, is it? I suppose that explains a lot... though I seem to recall a few days where the hair wasn’t quite up to standard."

Do not even think of fleeing from me. There are matters between us that must be settled.

He cleared his throat, feeling a slight warmth in his cheeks as he glanced away. "That’s... more than I’m used to hearing about myself. But if it’s my eyes you admire, I won’t protest."

It’s precisely that balance—knowing when to be serious and when to bring levity—that makes you such an effective leader.

I wouldn’t consider you any less mature. You have a cheerful personality, yes, but that doesn’t diminish your qualities as a leader. You’re grounded, capable, and possess more strengths than I care to list right now.

Of course, we're talking about the color, though I must admit, it does remind me of you.

🤨

Are you seeking my praise, redhead?

Morning.

He allowed a faint smile to cross his face. “It does feel like old times. Though those moments seem far too rare now. Perhaps that’s what makes them worth savoring.”