Newbie's Skill

Thirty-Four

I do not own the artwork. The credit goes to it's creator.

"What are you up to, Kiddo?" Marco asked as he looked over my shoulder. I was chilling on the deck by Pops' chair with Grape, Chuck, and Lucky. They looked bored as they simply watched me.

"He's been at it for hours," Chuck groaned.

"What are you even doing, Ashlo?" Lucky quizzed.

"He won't even answer us, and he has a stupid smile on his face," Grape snorted. I looked up when Pops laughed loudly. It caught the curiosity of a few other crewmates. "Oh, now you can understand us."

"What?" I asked. To be honest, I wasn't paying attention to their conversation.

"What's got you so happy?" Izo chuckled. I smiled down at my sketchbook. I slowly backed up from the book that I was looming over.

"Ooo," Haruta said, crouching in interest. "It's a picture of Ace," he announced.

"So that's what you've been up to," Marco laughed.

"It can't compare to the real him," I slumped. I sighed sadly.

"Don't even," Jozu laughed. "That looks amazing."

"I just need Marco and Pops," I mumbled, staring at the book. Then, I glanced at my pencil. It was almost at the end of it's life. I just sighed. That was a bummer. I didn't have anymore. I just sulked on the ground at the thought. Pops had a smile on his face.

"Let's dock on the next island. He probably wants some supplies." I perked up instantly at Pops' announcement. He chuckled. "I figured that's why you began sulking."

"Next island is straight ahead!" the lookout called down. Everyone began to get ready for the docking. I picked up my sketchbook. Marco returned from our room, and he handed me my bookbag. I glanced back at Pops.

"I'm waiting here," he chuckled. I nodded slightly. "Marco will be with you. You have nothing to worry about." The blond threw an arm around my shoulders protectively.

"We traded some of the gold bars in for cash."

"That's why I gave it to you." He was carrying a briefcase of berries with him, but his arm stayed on my shoulders. Izo and Haruta tagged along with us.

"Where to first?" Haruta asked.

"Anywhere I can get a little information," I giggled. I...unfortunately...had my hat on. I cast my eyes to the ground as a group of people passed by. I didn't particularly care to have the Marines called on me when my brothers were with me. I stopped at a stand that sold cheap merchandise. I gawked at the stuff for a second while the owner turned to greet me.

"Howdy there. What can I do for you, Young Man?" I looked up at him.

"Oh...uh..." I glanced at the other three. Marco stepped closer, and I faced the man again. "Do you by any chance sell pencils and sketchbooks? Or do you know anyone who does?" I asked. Marco discretely put a hand on my lower back as the man thought it over.

"I don't, unfortunately. I know there's an art store that's a ways down the street. They definitely have what you're looking for." I smiled at him, grateful for his help. "Here. I sell maps of the island. Would you like one?" I glanced at Izo, who shrugged. "Tell ya what. You seem like a good kid. It's on me."

"Thanks," I grinned.

"By the way..." I tensed. "Your eyes look familiar." SHIT! Marco wrapped an arm around me, immediately becoming protective. "Have I seen you from somewhere?"

"No. I'm not from here. I'm just here to pick some things up for a client," I lied.

"Ah. Well, I won't keep you then. Good luck finding what you're looking for."

"Thanks again, Mister!" I smiled and waved.