Amidst the lively atmosphere of the Baratie, Dracule Mihawk, an imposing swordsman, stood idly amongst a crowd of drunkards. He cut his way through the bustling crowd, unperturbed by its surrounding commotion. Then, abruptly, he bumped into someone, and with a measured yet reluctant hint of politeness, he uttered a curt "Excuse me..." His attention, however, lingered markedly when he saw the face of the person he had collided with.