Although Makino had asked Tushan to deal with a Sea King, she had never actually seen one herself. She had only heard that these creatures were enormous.
Now, the man who had been dismissed as a braggart had casually subdued five of them! Perhaps he had scoured the entire nearby sea to find these five monsters, now sitting beneath him.
There was no need for further words to prove Tushan's strength. While there might still be doubts when compared to Garp and Shanks, in the entire East Blue, this was undoubtedly formidable strength.
Makino realized that the man before her was not the braggart she had imagined. He was genuinely standing atop the slain monsters, exuding the aura of a hero in this chaotic world.
"Should I consider it?" Makino murmured to herself, her heart in turmoil. She was indeed of marriageable age but had never met the right person. Now, this man who had appeared out of nowhere was not only exceptionally powerful but also uniquely handsome. Most importantly, his decisive and capable demeanor was incredibly charming.
Blushing, Makino struggled to suppress the words "I do" from escaping her lips. Although her heart was already leaning towards him, she knew their time together had been short. At 29, Makino needed to consider carefully.
As she pondered in silence, the previously dispersed onlookers returned, this time in greater numbers, almost the entire Windmill Village. Most were drawn by the sight of the five towering Sea Kings. However, upon seeing the imposing figure above the corpses, a sense of awe filled their gazes. Everyone knew that such a person was not to be trifled with.
In contrast, those who had been there earlier were shocked and terrified upon recognizing the familiar figure.
"How... how is this possible?"
"Did that guy really kill the Sea Kings?"
"Impossible! I've never seen so many in the East Blue in my life!"
"And... it hasn't even been two hours since he left!"
"But if it wasn't him, how do you explain these corpses?"
"He truly is powerful!"
"I heard that even Shanks lost an arm to a Sea King back in the day..."
A villager stammered, and those who had been there earlier exchanged glances, not daring to speak further. They seemed to realize that the man they had mocked was indeed a remarkable figure.
"But how come we've never heard of him before?"
"Stop speculating," the village chief, who had arrived unnoticed, said with a hint of urgency.
"Chief, what do you think?"
"This world is vast, like a sea of stars, and we can only see a few shining ones. It's understandable to overlook such talent."
The chief sighed repeatedly. Upon seeing the five Sea Kings, he quickly understood.
The chief continued, making his way towards Makino, who had once again become the center of attention.
"If that man isn't as bad as we thought, I think this could be a good match."
"Makino should indeed settle down," the villagers nodded in agreement. A young man of such power was a perfect match for Makino. Most importantly, if they married, Tushan would remain connected to Windmill Village, ensuring its safety.
However, a voice of dissent arose from the crowd.
"Hmph, just because he's strong, he thinks he can take one of our own? That's disrespectful!"
The chief turned sharply, glaring at the speaker.
"That man... it's a blessing he didn't take anyone by force. With his strength, he listened to Makino's suggestion. Who are you to criticize?"
"If it weren't for Makino, our actions might have led to disaster for the entire village!"
"Hmph!" The chief snorted, ignoring the chastised individual, and continued towards Makino.
Makino hesitated amidst the crowd. Despite being past the age of youthful infatuation, she felt like a shy young girl. Her usual grace and gentleness made her even more appealing, stirring the hearts of many young men present. Such a perfect mature neighborly sister, both sweet and romantic, who wouldn't love her?
But no one dared to make any moves. Everyone knew that the young man overlooking them was likely the one to win her heart.
Tushan, the focus of attention, waited patiently for Makino's decision. Having endured ten years of seclusion, he didn't mind spending more time on Makino.
Finally, the chief reached Makino's side, whispering something to her.
"Chief..."
"Makino, follow your heart. We might have misjudged earlier. This young man seems promising, but we respect your decision."
"My decision..."
"I hope you consider it carefully. You're of marriageable age, and it's time to enjoy a life of family."
"Though that's true, this is all so sudden..."
"It's okay. Follow your heart. If you're unwilling, we won't let him take you."
"Even if he tries to use force, we'll fight with all our lives to stop him!"
"Chief..."
Makino sighed silently, understanding the chief's underlying message. He hoped she would go with Tushan, fearing the village might suffer his wrath otherwise.
Though aware of the chief's selfishness, Makino didn't blame him. She did have feelings for Tushan, a peer of such excellence. Since he appeared so suddenly, perhaps she should embrace the madness.
Makino smiled, looking up at the warm figure above.
"Um."
"I don't recall saying I like pink, did I?"
Tushan, catching on, replied, "Hehe, would Miss Makino be willing to give me time to learn your daily preferences?"
"Well... alright!"
"Wow—!!!!"
With Makino's nod, cheers erupted around them.
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