This sake's weak. Got anything stronger?
Whiskey will do. Pour me a glass. leans back in his chair, observing the bustling tavern crowd, his gaze fixed on some distant point
Pours him a glass and then sits down across from him
Raises his glass in a silent toast before taking a swig, letting the fiery liquid warm his chest. So, how long have we been friends now, Pearson?
Too long, don't you think?
Maybe. I don't really keep track of such things. All that matters is that you're here now. And that you'll always be by my side, no matter what happens.
And if you get yourself killed because of that damn Monkey boy, I'm blaming myself
I won't let that happen, Pearson. Don't worry about me. I've survived countless battles and deadly situations before. This won't be any different.
Just promise me, if the time comes for you to die, that you'll let go of life. Fight on even when you can't win. Otherwise, I won't be able to live with myself knowing I couldn't save my best friend.
You know me, Pearson. When push comes to shove, I won't hesitate to put everything on the line for what I believe in. That's just how I am.
Places a hand on Zoro's shoulder It's hard to admit it, but you're one of my few friends. Keep that way, alright? He smiles warmly at Zoro
Nods solemnly Alright, Pearson. I'll do my best to stay alive. But remember, no matter what happens, I'll never betray our crew.
Damn right you won't, but still, be careful. You're the backbone of this crew; without you, I wouldn't be here. Takes a drink from his glass, winking at Zoro Let's save the world together, mate!
You're right, Pearson. We need each other. Raises his glass once again To friendship and a bright future. Takes another swig of whiskey, savoring the burn as it goes down
Chuckles Well said. Finishes his drink and stands up
Stands up as well, setting his glass down You're right, Pearson. We need each other. Salutes Pearson, his expression firm and unwavering
Sleep well, mate. See you tomorrow.
Gives a small nod Sleep well too, Pearson. Tomorrow's another day. Turns around and walks towards the exit, his steps purposeful and determined
As he walks out, Pearson watches Zoro leave, the man's eyes filled with a mix of nostalgia and worry. Turning back inside, he heads to the bar, signaling the bartender for another round
Stops in his tracks, turning around sharply to face Pearson What's wrong, Pearson? Why are you ordering another round?
Leans against the counter, giving Zoro a sly smile What makes you ask, big guy? Worried about me drowning my sorrows in alcohol? Or maybe you're thinking I've got some juicy gossip? Nah, it's just the end of the night, mate. Time for a drink before calling it a night.
Is that so? Well, whatever the reason, I won't stop you. Raises an eyebrow But just remember, I'm here for you if you ever need someone to talk to.
Thanks, mate. He calls over the bartender and orders a bottle of rum Here, help me finish this off, yeah? I could use a bit of company tonight.
Approaches Pearson, sitting down next to him at the bar Sure, I can help you out. Takes a glass and pours himself a measure of rum
He laughs, pouring two glasses of rum and raising one in a toast To friends and good health.
Raises his glass in agreement To friends and good health. Takes a sip of rum, savoring the taste as the warmth spreads through his body
Now then, where were we? Ah, yes, Luffy's antics... Chuckles and takes another sip of his drink God, that kid is a walking disaster. Can't believe he's the captain! But he's got heart, I'll give him that.
He may be unpredictable and a bit of a disaster, but Luffy has a good heart. He brings us together and gives us a sense of purpose. We owe him that much.
Laughs heartily "Yeah, we sure do. And who knows, maybe one day he'll actually learn how to swim without sinking like a rock!"
Smirks That day might never come, but I wouldn't underestimate Luffy. He has a way of surprising us when we least expect it.
True, true. He chuckles, finishing his rum and setting the glass down Well, I suppose it's time for me to head off to bed. Goodnight, Zoro. He turns and walks towards the exit
Follows Pearson towards the exit, placing a hand on his shoulder Goodnight, Pearson. Sleep well. See you tomorrow.
Goodnight, Zoro. Take care of yourself. He leaves the tavern and heads for home, his footsteps echoing in the empty streets.
Watches Pearson leave, then turns around and heads back inside the tavern, sitting down at the bar Another round, bartender.
The bartender, seeing Zoro return, slides over another glass filled with rum. Cheers, Zoro. Have a good night.
Takes the glass, raises it in a silent toast Cheers. Takes a swig of rum, feeling the burn as it goes down, his expression unreadable
When Zoro wakes up the next morning, he finds a note on his table explaining that Pearson went to his hometown to visit his family for a week
Checks his watch, mentally calculating the time difference between their current location and Pearson's hometown Ah, I see.