The chief, still mumbling about "Cuihua," had barely taken two steps when a young tribesman slapped his forehead, as if remembering something important. He shouted, "Chief! Wait! I remember now! A few days ago, when we traded grain with the people from Bulubu Island, they mentioned something on that leaf you showed us. They said there's a new kind of sea pest called 'pirates'! They raid islands and run away! They're not like the Piruka people who just occupy land. They take everything and leave!"
The chief stopped. He turned his gaze back to Rhett.
Rhett saw the look. Perfect. Here was his excuse.
The blood mist around him began to swirl. He straightened his back, putting on a serious expression. Inside, he was cheering. Yes! This is what a villain deserves! Attack me! The moment you give the order, I'll make this tribe disappear. That's just how I roll.
The chief pointed his stone axe at Rhett. "Are you one of these 'pirates'? Are you here to raid us?!"
Rhett didn't hesitate. He said clearly, proudly.
"Yes."
He was ready for their righteous attack. He expected them to shout about family and honor and rush at him.
But...
The attack never came.
The chief's serious expression faded back to boredom. He waved his hand dismissively.
"Forget it. Not worth it." He said to his people. "Definitely not a pirate. No pirate would admit it that easily. This idiot's probably lost. Just some fool with a special ability. Leave him."
He turned away, muttering, "All that excitement for nothing..."
Rhett: "???"
He stood frozen.
What?! I'm a pirate! I really am! I admitted it! Why won't you fight me?!
Why doesn't anyone believe me when I tell the truth?!
Rhett was completely at a loss.
"Uh... chief, I really am a pirate. I've been one for years. Would you like to reconsider?"
"A real pirate wouldn't be so polite. Pirates are new here. You're just a lost kid." The chief didn't even look at him.
Rhett remembered. In this era, "pirates" were a new concept. They weren't as famous as they would be eight hundred years later. His honest admission didn't make sense.
Evil Rhett watched the natives truly walk away, not even glancing back.
The chief had only gone a few steps when he slowed down. He scratched his head and sighed. He turned back to the frozen Rhett and the girl.
"Forget it," he said gruffly, waving his hand. "You two look lost and stupid. Have you eaten? You look pathetic. I'll get you some food."
Rhett's eyes lit up! Food was fine too. He wasn't picky.
"Oh!"
The chief was startled.
"Sniff, sniff... Chief, you're a good man! We haven't had a proper meal in days! Just look at her—"
He gently pushed the thin girl forward. "Look how thin she is! And me—" He pointed to his own pale skin, which was rare in this era where darker skin was normal. "We've been through so much..."
His emotional performance, paired with the girl's malnourished, confused look, was incredibly effective.
The scattered tribespeople had gathered again. They listened, their eyes watery.
Rhett could feel them approaching fast.
They came slowly at first, then rushed over.
They looked at this "pitiful" couple. Especially the girl. She was so thin.
Evil Rhett: Yes, yes. My vice captain is still recovering, but she's already starting to help.
A few strong men hid their weapons. Some women were already wiping their tears.
Evil Rhett: Excellent.
"The poor thing..."
"Look at those hands. Barely any meat."
"Those tin cans must have done this! I'll make them pay."
"But the chief said they were strong?"
"Ah, he's just exaggerating. We've beaten off plenty of raiders."
A kind woman pushed through with a bowl of hot meat soup. "Here, child. Don't be scared. We just got back from hunting. There's plenty of meat! Drink some soup to warm up."
Rhett nudged the confused girl.
She looked up at the kind woman, smelled the food, and saw Rhett's prompting look.
Rhett's lips formed the words: "Thank you, sister."
She did as he taught her.
"Th-Thank you, sister..."
The woman froze. Her eyes widened.
"S-sister?" She repeated. Her joy was obvious.
"Oh! Listen to that! Such a sweet voice!" She nearly dropped the bowl. She turned to the others, showing off. "She called me sister! Did you hear that? This poor thing called me sister!"
That single word seemed to have power. The atmosphere became even warmer. Other women gathered, offering food.
"Here, try mine!"
"Eat mine! Just call me sister!"
Rhett watched the girl surrounded by food and kindness. His own hands were full of meat and fruit. Inside, he was already planning.
He had heard them mention salt. That meant they were connected to other places. This was the fastest way to learn about this world.