The Guardian

Chapter 5

They docked at a new island, much to Lyra's disappointment. She was enjoying her time with the crew, she enjoyed them a lot.

A large head bumped her softly, "I told you. They aren't going to let you go. You'll be leaving with us on this island." Lyra ignored the large feline instead opting to leap onto the docks, time to explore her new home.

As the red tabby headed into town, the crew were discussing supplies and things needed for some special projects. All unknown to the missing cat.

It has been awhile since Lyra was on land, especially a busy place like this. So many people and colors, she missed this. It was nice to see civilization evolve as it has.

Pausing in front of a bakery, her nose twitched at the heavenly scent that filled her. That sounds delicious. With a long look towards the goodies in the window, she sighed.

A jingle of a bell caught her attention before a small plate was placed in front of her with another small bowl. A warm hand scratched her head, "Here, eat up kitty."

Giving her thanks, Lyra ate her sweet treat and milk. How wonderful, how nice of them. Once she was satisfied she meowed another thanks before heading off.

Weaving between legs, she lost track of the crew as she got acquainted with her surroundings. So focused on not getting squished she didn't notice the trail she had.

Lyra spotted an alley, a shortcut! She poked in and headed for the other side. Just as she was about to enter the street, a figure blocked her way.

A large black dog stood in front of her. Fear trickled down Lyra's spin as her fur started to stand on end. This was bad, oh so bad.

À noise sounded behind her, dragging her view to the two other dogs behind her. Oh so bad. She couldn't tame everyone, she didn't have enough energy to do that not after healing Whitebeard a bit this morning.

Cursing her lack of preservation she opted for the reasoning side of things. "Hello, it's a pleasure to meet you. I'm new here just checking things out."

Three very loud and vicious growls sounded around her, red ears flattening against her head at it. Well that's not going to work well.

"You're not welcome here little kitty. This is our turf." The one in front of her stepped forward, making Lyra take a step back. "We don't take kindly to outsiders. Well show you exactly what we do."

Oh no. Lyra was so utterly screwed.

Letting out a loud hiss, she darted forward and swatted at his face. He snapped at her side in retaliation, gaining a yelp from her. Sliding onto the ground, Lyra didn't hesitate in taking off out of the alley into the streets.

The three dogs barked as they followed her, knocking into things as she jumped as best she could with her injury. Where to go? She couldn't see anyone she knew, there were too many people. Too many people. Too many.

A flash of orange grabbed her attention, bloody paws digging into the dirt as she changed directions rapidly. If she was wrong, well that sucks, but if she was right she was saved.

She didn't even try to be nice about avoiding people, she had three angry dogs after her! Heads turned towards the commotion, just as she darted from the crowd and nearly tripped in relief at the familiar faces.

Thatch, Marco and Ace were there. She was saved. Ace didn't hesitate to drop down for her to scramble into his arms, curling into his warmth and safety of his hold.

"Lyra what happened? Oh my god you're injured!" Ace's hand was bloody from where he pet over her wound, as she focused on those damn dogs. As the approached she hissed at them angrily and backed into Ace more.

The other two stood protectively in front of them, blocking the dogs from their target as Ace took off for the ship. "I'm taking her to the infirmary!"

Damn if only she had the energy to heal herself. This sucks a lot. Ace didn't stop until he was able to pass her off into one of the nurses hands with a small story on how he found her before he left with Kotatsu on his heels. She was furious and ready to deliver pain to her attackers.

Lyra was embarrassed that they were all making such a deal of it, she had a small scratch no big deal. Well it would have healed but she was tired. So that's no good. Ah she better sleep, yeah sleep will help.

When she woke up, a warm body was curled around her. The deep breathing of Kotatsu let her know who it was, and the soft snores nearby alerted her to Ace's presence.

"You're awake yoi."

Green eyes blinked up at the smiling Marco, a clipboard in his hand. "You gave us a fright, had to give you a couple stitches but you'll be fine. Kotatsu and Ace scared the dogs, so they won't bother you again." A warm hand came down to gently scratch her head, his smile soft when she purred. "Don't do that again, yoi."

I promise, Lyra thought with a light heart. She couldn't leave them if she tried. She got attached, broke her most important rule and got attached. She was doomed now.

"Get some rest, yoi."