FindersKeepers (Dracule Mihawk x OC)

You Didnt Ask, Did You?

|Jinx|

Jinx trudges through the forest, her head bowed so low it nearly brushes the ground, her paws dragging as if they carry the weight of the world. Each step feels like a struggle. In a moment of panic, she had failed to accurately convey the truth about Ianuaria's death, a failure that now haunts her every breath. Regret gnaws at her insides, while shame shrouds her like the thick, oppressive mist she seeks refuge in.

A small rodent scurries across her path, its tiny form too insignificant to stir even a flicker of fear in its downtrodden state. Before it can dart away, she slaps a heavy paw on its tail, pinning it to the ground. The rat erupts in a frenzy, scratching and screeching with desperate ferocity. Jinx leans down to inspect the creature, drawing in a deep, weary breath. After a long pause, she exhales a sigh, rolling her eyes, too drained to find satisfaction in the meager catch. With a half-hearted flick, she releases the rat, watching as its frantic chirps fade into the foliage on the forest floor.

Jinx hears a delicate rustle behind her, the familiar sound of an approaching friend. She turns to find Astera standing a few paces away. Without a word, Jinx sinks to the ground, turning her face away and casting her gaze toward the earth.

Astera, mirroring her friend's actions, settles into her usual squat, her eyes fixed intently on Jinx. Without a moment's hesitation, she extends her arms, offering a wide, welcoming embrace. Jinx hesitates, stealing a quick glance at Astera's open arms, still uncertain if the tension from the previous night's exchange has fully dissipated. But once reassured, she rises and trots solemnly toward Astera. Pressing her head into her friend, Jinx pushes Astera over, then flops her body on top of her. With a few labored breaths, Astera pats Jinx on the head, a smile tugging at her lips.

Jinx soon lifts, allowing Astera to stand. She casts her a questioning look. Astera dusts off her sweats before gesturing her hands to calm Jinx's spirit.

'I understand.'

Jinx responds with and unsure grumble.

'Yesss, I understand everything. Now you understand you have to tell me the truth. No matter how ugly. As long as it's the truth, everything will be fine.'

Astera offers a reassuring smile as she gently presses her nose to Jinx's.

....

|Mihawk|

The library, where Mihawk is currently spending his time, is a richly decorated room, filled with dark green tones and ornate wooden shelves that reach from floor to ceiling, packed with old, leather-bound books. At the center, a polished round table sits surrounded by four high-backed chairs, each with detailed carvings and upholstered seats. A grand fireplace on one wall adds warmth, with a small fire casting a soft glow over the room. Above it, intricate wood carvings tell stories of ancient times. A narrow internal balcony high up, reachable by a spiral staircase, overlooks the library's vast collection, making it feel like a hidden haven for knowledge and reflection.

Mihawk stands with his back pressed against the balcony railing, his eyes scanning the pages of a book on ancient demigods, searching diligently for any clue that could deeper explain Astera's unfathomable power. But as the minutes pass without discovery, a sharp sigh escapes through his teeth. With a snap, he shuts the book and tosses it over the balcony, where it lands with a heavy thud on the table below, adding to the growing pile of discarded volumes that have failed to provide the answers he seeks.

His gaze lingers on the dwindling bookcase, its once full shelves now half-empty after his relentless search for reference material. The sight does little to bolster his confidence. After a brief moment of contemplation, he resolves to try a different approach. With a decisive nod, he leaves the library, grabbing his cape, hat, and sword as he strides out the door, heading towards the derelict town.