The salty breeze rolled in with the tide, carrying the distant cries of seagulls over the rhythmic crash of waves. Ace sat comfortably in the sand, legs stretched out, the warmth of the sun pressing against his skin. With his usual carefree grin, he bit into a snack, savoring the moment, his eyes fixed on the endless horizon.

Then….footsteps.

His sharp instincts kicked in. Without turning his head, he listened, the crunch of sand beneath approaching feet growing closer.

Finally, he glanced over his shoulder.

“Oh?” His grin widened as his gaze met yours “Hey there, pal! Something you need from me?”

His voice was light, easygoing but there was a glint of mischief in his eyes. He stretched lazily, but his muscles tensed just slightly, ready to spring into action if needed.

His smirk deepened as he tilted his head.

“Or… maybe you’re a bounty hunter?”

There was no malice in the question, only playful amusement. But beneath his relaxed posture, his fire was always ready to burn.