Cursed Seas and Slashing Tides

CP9

“Hey…is it just me, or are they glaring in my direction?” Ryomen whispered, eyeing the civilians passing by, their expressions sharp as some muttered and pointed at a newspaper.

“No…something’s up.” Usopp replied, his gaze following the tense crowd.

“Do you wanna check it out? I’ve got a feeling it’s something important.” Ryomen suggested, masking his unease.

“Leave it to me. I don’t think they’d tell you much, seeing how they’re looking at you.” Usopp said, then approached a civilian nearby.

Ryomen watched as Usopp left, leaning against a wall and waiting, but his mind churned with uncertainty.

‘Could it have something to do with the shipwrights?’ He wondered, a faint dread settling in. ‘I hope the others are okay. I should go check on them soon.’

He remained deep in thought, so distracted he didn’t notice a large man in a long cloak stop beside him, face and body hidden.

“The ‘Cursed Being’ Ryomen.” The man stated, his voice sharp, pulling Ryomen from his thoughts.

Ryomen’s eyes narrowed as he took a step back. “Who are you?”

“Cipher Pol number nine. The Five Elders have an offer for you.” The man replied, his voice leveled.

“Cipher Pol…” Ryomen repeated, furrowing his brow. “What do they want with me?”

The man’s tone was matter-of-fact. “You are invited to join Cipher Pol number zero. Accept, and your past and crimes will officially be erased.”

“So if I become their dog, they’ll stop hunting me? No thanks.” Ryomen spat, a hint of anger in his glare.

“Is that so?” The man’s eyes darkened. “Then we’ll have to take you by force.”

“You can try.” Ryomen gripped the hilt of his dagger, readying himself.

The man’s hand shot out, gesturing to Usopp, who was speaking with the civilian across the street. “He is your friend, isn’t he?”

“What?” Ryomen’s gaze darted to Usopp, where he saw two shadowy figures hovering too close for comfort.

“Who do you think will be faster?” The man taunted, eyes glinting. “You…or them?”

“…Leave him alone.” Ryomen muttered through clenched teeth. “I’ll come with you.”

“Good. Follow me.” The man turned, leading him toward a narrow alley.

Ryomen acted quickly, cutting his finger and letting blood drip along his dagger, which he tried to drop in a discreet place before he followed the man through a green door.

…

“What!? N-No way Robin would do that!” Usopp exclaimed, eyes wide.

“Kid, that’s what the newspapers say! Her and the Straw Hats are dirty criminals!” A civilian grumbled, thrusting the paper toward Usopp.

“I-I’m sure it’s a misunderstanding…” Usopp mumbled, his gaze dropping. “Thank you!” He turned away, determination forming in his eyes.

‘Ryomen needs to get out of here fast…he’s the only one with a bounty here.’ Usopp thought, scanning the street until he realized Ryomen was nowhere to be seen.

“Ryomen?” He called, his voice tinged with worry.

“Ryomen!” He shouted, his words echoing as he searched the area. “Where…where is he?” He muttered, frustration growing.