Fisher Tiger

With the children now asleep, Jack carefully extricated himself from the bed, ensuring they remained undisturbed. As he made his way back to the group, Otohime approached him.

"That was...beautiful," she remarked sincerely.

He simply nodded, acknowledging her words.

She hesitated before asking, "Is it always this peaceful?"

"Most times," he replied tersely. "It's a sanctuary. For them. For all of us."

Their conversation was interrupted by Shakky. "It's getting late," she observed. "Perhaps we should return?"

Jack nodded in agreement. With a flick of his wrist, the pocket space began to fold, transporting everyone back to the dimly lit chamber.

As they reoriented themselves, Otohime approached Jack once more. "Thank you for allowing me to see this part of your life," she said, genuine appreciation evident in her voice.

Jack simply nodded, the faintest hint of a smirk on his face. "It was my pleasure."

The adults retreated downstairs, leaving the children in the solace of the pocket space, with dreams of dragons and heroes lulling them to sleep. The atmosphere at dinner was quiet but comforting. Otohime led them to a long wooden table, illuminated by the soft glow of lanterns. The surroundings were quaint, the scent of fresh-cooked food wafting in the air, making stomachs rumble in anticipation.

Otohime was swift in her service, and what caught everyone off-guard was when she took a serving for herself. With a placid smile, she settled down beside them. No one found it odd; the atmosphere was familial, warm.

Sophie chuckled, "Remember the time we got stranded on that desert island? The one with those bizarre dancing cacti?" A ripple of laughter went around the table.

Titi, her blue hair shimmering in the lantern light, pitched in, "Ah! And that sandstorm! We thought we were goners."

The anecdotes flowed freely, tales of danger, laughter, and the occasional mischief. It was a moment of camaraderie, a bond formed from shared experiences. That's when the sudden knock broke the rhythm.

Otohime, leaving her half-finished plate, moved gracefully to the entrance. Opening the door, she faltered momentarily. Whatever or whoever was outside clearly left her surprised. Returning, her eyes met Jack's. "Jack, there's someone outside who wishes to speak with you."

The gravity in her voice was unmistakable. Jack's stoic demeanor remained unchanged, though his eyes held a hint of curiosity. Otohime leaned in, her voice a hushed whisper. "He's a notorious figure but, from what I know, a man of honor."

Jack nodded, his movements precise as he rose. Stepping out into the dimly lit street, his eyes met the figures of two fishmen. One was tall, with fierce tattoos covering his body, and an intensity about him that demanded respect. Beside him stood a slightly smaller fishman with a more calm demeanor, his facial features accentuated by a well-kept beard.

The two fishmen gestured for him to follow without uttering a word. Jack hesitated for a fraction of a second, then decided to follow them. Their stride was purposeful, and Jack had to keep up. It wasn't long before they led him to a more secluded spot, away from prying eyes.

In the secluded alleyway, the tall, imposing fishman with fierce tattoos, turned to face Jack. His companion, the smaller fishman draped in a waiting kimono, remained silently observant.

"Thank you for fighting those pirates and saving my people," Fisher Tiger began, his voice resonating deeply, tinged with gratitude and regret. "At the time, I was away with Jinbei. I can't imagine what might have transpired without your intervention."

Jack, ever the stoic, gave a brief nod, his deep blue eyes searching Fisher Tiger's. "I acted as the situation demanded. Nothing more."

The taller fishman introduced himself, "I am Fisher Tiger," and gestured to his companion, "and this is Jimbei."

Jack responded simply, "Jack."

Fisher Tiger's expression shifted to one of caution, "I harbor no love for humans, Jack. You should know that."

Jack's eyes didn't waver, "That's not news to me."

"There's something else you should be aware of," Fisher Tiger continued. "The man you killed had ties to Whitebeard. And Whitebeard doesn't let things go."

Jack's response was tinged with amusement, his smirk evident, "Regardless of where I go, if Whitebeard seeks me, he will find me. Your concern is the damage the conflict might inflict upon this island."

Fisher Tiger was momentarily taken aback at the transparency of his intentions, but he managed to maintain his composure. "You're astute. The people here have suffered enough. They don't need the repercussions of a battle between titans."

Jack leaned in slightly, his voice carrying an undertone of conviction, "He won't harm the people here. That, I can promise."

Jimbei, who had been silent until now, finally spoke, "Jack, if you value the peace and safety of those you care about, consider your next steps wisely."

Jack looked Jimbei squarely in the eyes, the stormy depths of his gaze growing more turbulent. "Threats don't sit well with me," he declared, an unmistakable edge to his voice.

A stifling aura emanated from him, raw and potent, suffocating the atmosphere. Even the shadows seemed to draw back, the darkness of the alley momentarily deepening. The force of it pinned Jimbei in place, beads of sweat forming on his brow, his usually stoic demeanor faltering.

Fisher Tiger, with his years of experience and wisdom, recognized the danger of escalating tensions. He quickly stepped between the younger fishman and Jack, both hands raised in a placating gesture. "My apologies," he intoned gravely. "Jimbei can be... overzealous. His words carried no malice."

Jimbei, though rash, wasn't a fool. He could feel the weight of Jack's aura pressing down on him, a warning clearer than any words. With a curt nod, he took a step back, trying to regain some semblance of composure.

Pulling back his oppressive presence, Jack's eyes retained their stormy intensity, though the immediate threat had subsided. "Whitebeard's man was here to supposedly protect the island, yet he intended to enslave mermaids for personal gain. If Whitebeard comes, it'll be for me. Your island and your people have nothing to fear."

The silence that followed was charged, the tension palpable. Fisher Tiger, always the mediator, chose his words carefully. "These are turbulent times. Our trust is often misplaced. But Whitebeard's name carries weight. I've always believed him to be honorable."

Jack's lips twitched, hinting at a smirk. "Honor is subjective. Actions speak louder."

A momentary pause hung in the air before Fisher Tiger responded, "Indeed, actions speak. You saved our people. That action alone speaks volumes of your character, irrespective of your personal motivations."

Jimbei, still recovering from the raw display of power, found his voice again. "We simply wish for our home to remain untouched by the outside conflicts. We've had enough turmoil."

Jack looked between the two fishmen, his demeanor unwavering. "Your concerns are noted. But I assure you, should Whitebeard come, it'll be to settle a personal score. This island won't be a battleground."

Fisher Tiger seemed satisfied with this, nodding slowly. "For the safety and peace of our land, I hope your words hold true."

The conversation began winding down, the night's events casting a long shadow over the trio's interaction. Fisher Tiger extended a hand to Jack. "Despite the circumstances, it's an honor to meet a man of your reputation."

Jack took the offered hand, the grip firm yet respectful. "Likewise."

The two fishmen took their leave, their figures gradually fading into the shadows of the alley. Jack stood still for a moment, the weight of the conversation heavy on his mind. But he was drawn out of his reverie by the soft glow of lanterns from restaurant.

Stepping back inside, the warmth and camaraderie of his family greeted him. Jack's stormy eyes softened to their usual calm blue as he rejoined the group, allowing the evening's tensions to dissipate amidst laughter, shared stories, and the comfort of those he held dear.

Otohime approached him, her eyes reflecting a mixture of concern and curiosity. "Everything alright?"

Jack simply nodded. "Just old matters resurfacing. Nothing to worry about."

Otohime excused herself, needing to attend to other patrons in the restaurant. The soft glow of the lanterns shone upon her graceful figure as she moved seamlessly amongst tables, ensuring everyone was content.

Jack returned to the dining table, sliding into the spot he had occupied earlier. Amelia handed him his plate, filled with an assortment of delicacies from the sea. Her eyes met his briefly, a silent question about the earlier interruption hanging between them. Jack gave her a reassuring nod, and she continued her meal with a more relaxed demeanor.

The sound of laughter punctuated the air as Sophie recalled another of their shared escapades. "Remember when Luna tried to convince that merchant in Water 7 that she was a renowned artist?" The table erupted in mirth.

Luna feigned indignation. "I stand by that! Those stick figures were a masterpiece!"

Isabella chuckled, wiping away a tear. "Masterpiece indeed. I think I've got that drawing stored away somewhere. A memento of our time there."

Jack, taking a bite of his meal, caught Ponis' gaze. She looked elated, the thrill of their recent adventures shining brightly in her eyes.

The mention of Whitebeard's name carried weight, and it was hard to dismiss the fact that the mighty Pirate would not take the death of one of his own lightly. It was not in Whitebeard's nature to let such things go unaddressed. Jack was well aware of this, but he would not have acted any differently given the circumstances. After all, he was not one to stand by when injustice was being meted out, even if it meant courting danger.

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