121 peace under the flag. (2/2)

”Now then, that the impromptu lesson has temporarily ceased, I would suggest moving onwards. I can see some pastures in the distance and a lot more sphinxes to boot. We're near civilization, and judging by the method of farming I'd wager the more civilized kind.” I said emphasizing my point by motioning towards the sparse fog embankment.

Fawkes nodded summarily as he made his way forward, and with dignified steps the remaining duo followed.

As we walked onwards, the thicket of trees began to recede, as if acting as a protective wall that we had crossed. The fog followed the forest's example, and began to clear as well, revealing a most breathtaking sight.

A dignified mountain rose into the sky at a distance, rolling hills flanking it on all sides. On these hills houses could be seen, surrounded by makeshift ranches and plots of land where a pack of Sphinx grazed peacefully.

It seemed we had entered a countryside town, peaceful and serene.

In the distance a bold and well made gate stared down imposingly, with a small cobblestone walkway leading into the bustling town square.

People walked around uncaring of the intruders that stared at them from over the walls. Going about their daily work as jovially.

Men and women walked side by side, with bags of produce held between them on what looked like a self made cart. Neighbors called out to each other pleasantly greeting each other, then going about their day.

A gaggle of children ran out of the gate towards the forest, midway they banged into us. The lead child looked at us surprised before smiling happily.

”Uncle you look new! Have you come to visit like those other nice uncles? Tell us stories when you're free 'kay!” Then with a wink of childish innocence he was gone, taking with him his entire clique of friends amidst looks of incomprehension.

As we walked forward, Rein could not help but ask. ”Captain, those children..?”

”The group of ankle biters look so damn carefree. It's like they haven't ever faced the cruelty of the unknown before.” Fawkes remarked as he ran his fingers through his nascent beard.

I nodded simply, suddenly coming to a halt I raised my hands seriously.

”I've figured it out. That's why everyone here doesn't seem to care about a group of suspicious walking towards their town.” As the group followed my hands they visibly stiffened, for in the very center of the now completely visible town square a bold flag waved majestically.

A skull and crossbones stretched out on its majestic black canvass, with a crescent mustache on the grinning skull.

”The island is under the protection of the fucking whitebeard pirates!”