Truffle Trouble!

[mildofthewild]

"Yeep!" Sif says, not quite expecting the strength of Buffalo to match her own. As far as she knew, she was the strongest fighter in all of these East Blues! Her past experiences saw all manner of would-be pirates and bandits crumple to her fists. To have her momentum completely stopped, well, it left Sif completely lost. Even more so as Buffalo brought his Yari in a downward strike. Sif could see quite clearly that she couldn't brute force her way through such an attack...

Rolling back, Sif narrowly dodges the attack, rock crumbling beneath Buffalo's piercing weapon as the young marine looks back wide-eyed. That wasn't something she could survive...

"...S-so what!? If I have to go through all of you, I will! I don't care how strong you are...I don't care how strong any of you are! You're all the same if you think you can just kidnap people or do whatever you want!" 

Sif's body twitches, the young woman once again not thinking clearly before she acts! She's scared...scared of what may happen to her, to Reynard...scared of her journey possibly ending here...

"HEAR ME, RIGHT NOW! I'm tearing this whole operation down! I'm Sif Gunhildr, this is Mr. Mochi, AND WE'RE TEARING DOWN THE CHOICE CUTS!" Sif declares, beating her chest before rushing back in. If she wanted to win, she'd have to play things a bit smarter...

"HOG HOG STONE SHOWER!" Sif shouts, plunging her fists into the ground, cracking the stone and sending a plume of dust around her before throwing the crushed pebbles into the air. Buffalo's precise strikes would surely end her, so perhaps a smokescreen was needed...

---

He's fighting for me? Oh...oh my god! HE'S FIGHTING FOR ME!

Brisket's eyes practically glow as her blush intensifies, the young woman briefly and romantically distracted as Kabu strikes back against her defensive stance. A sweeping swing strikes through, careful planning having the naginata go between Brisket's slowing twists and slam into the handle of her weapon. With a loud yelp, Brisket backs away, holding up her now...severed yari...

"...BUFFALO GAVE ME THIS YARI! YOU TENGU BASTARD!" Brisket's hair stands on end as her fury explodes, the woman wielding both ends of her Yari before spinning both in her hands, almost like a set of Tonfas. 

Brisket spins both between her fingers, tossing them in the air and switching hands, her glare darkening as she further muddies the line between which stick was blunt and which held the Yari's blade. With a grunt, she flings one straight at Kabu before following close behind. Was this the blade? Or the stick? Whichever it was, Brisket was looking to use it to keep the Tengu busy while she moved in on a blindspot. 

[Fennec]

[Kabu Round]

It was a success! The Tengu managed to cut the yari in half with his naginata! All because the young lady was too distracted in a daydream about her lover fighting for her. In fact! The fact that the Kabu had been successful in his endeavor took him aback but he was nonetheless happy.

"Serves ya right for having your head in the clouds!"

The Tengu retorted, he didn't care if her granny had been the one to get her that naginata. Breaking weapons was fair game in combat such as this, besides she would be a fool to think he'd put up an honorable fight against someone with no honor. Pointing his Naginata at Brisket he taunted her. Kabu got ready to continue the combat charging back at Brisket, however, it would seem the lady had learned from her previous mistakes. Using both halves of the yari spinning them around like mad trying to confused Tengu which one was which.

"Gah!"

The Tengu flinched as the bladed Yari was thrown at him he was forced to make an evasive maneuver as the bladed part cut a piece of his sleeve off. He was not expecting the young woman to go in for an attack on his blind spot. As far as Brisket was concerned the Tengu was wide open for the incoming attack.

[Buffalo Round]

The ronin bandit stood on one leg as he rose his Yari from the cracked stone. He had a bit of a kung-fu pose with his spear sticking out! A furious warrior bandit he was! Buffalo locked eyes with Sif listening to her speech... she was full of it! He didn't believe one word of it. Even if she defeated him she would not be able to break through his master's armor.

"Ha! Fat chance! Even if you beat you will never be able to break Wagyu-sama's shell."

Buffalo boasted as he shifted his pose to a more attack focused one. The bandit lunged forward with his spear this time going for a power strike at Sif's head! But before he could the marine had punched the ground causing a plume of dust to build up and thus obscure his vision.

"These are dirty tricks for a marine..."

[Reynard Round]

From the other side of the fort, Reynard heard Sif's yells. If the description of a hog monster hadn't confirmed it this did. In turn, this caused the young marine's heart to elevate even if just a little... amidst the distraction of the camp which was already mobilizing outside he decided to sneak around out of anyone's sight. Quickly, Reynard turned into a fox, perhaps he could escape through the main gate and meet up with Sif helping her take down bandits.

"Come on guys let's go kill us a pig and an old man! Yar!"

A bandit yelled the rest of the march after him as they opened up the gate. This would likely come as a surprise to Kabu and Sif who would now see a band of ronin brandishing various kinds of classic weaponry pouring out of the fortress. There were at least 80 men and women among them. Too many to count at a glance, however. But, there was no reason to fret. At least not yet! For the goats were still around and as soon as they saw the bandits they began to come in for the attack! At this point, it was an all-out war!

"Bahhhhhhhh! Bahhhhhh!"

The goats screamed as they all rushed in to headbutt, bite, or kick different bandits. Meanwhile, the bandits yelped in pain or utter surprise from the scene.

"Oi oi oi where did these goats come from!?"

---

Kabu #ce5a0b
Buffalo #6f9fe4
Brisket #e6be19
Goats #e1cedc
Bandits Mooks #4b4f55
Reynard #eb904d
Wagyu #eec8ea

[mildofthewild]

[Round Brisket]

There it is, time to show my stuff off. Please be watching, Buffalo!

Brisket's glare darkens as she rushes in, wielding her blunt stick for a sharp blow to the Tengu's side. Throwing the blade would help illustrate a point; she needed no blade to deal a finishing blow. Her finesse was enough. With a strike, she aims the point of her stick at Kabu's sternum, aiming to knock the Tengu off balance and put him at her esteemed stre-

"Eh? What the-GAH!" 

Brisket was thrown off balance by the influx of goats pushed her back, the soldier taking a particular ram in the gut by one set of horns, tossing her back as well. 

"Goats?! Where did these come from...shoo! Shoo, go away, can't you see I'm busy?!" Brisket says, bellowing as she brandishes her makeshift baton, swinging it at the new beasts while at their mercy. "Oooooh, I'll show you for trying to make me look bad! This is a matter of more than life and death...it's...a love affair!" Brisket says, cheeks blushing once more as she looks back to Buffalo, fixing her hair before diving back against Kabu. Using her deft footwork, Brisket manages to corral a score of goats...and walk along their heads! Each step leaves one dizzy as she moves in, spinning her baton once more for a swift smack against the Tengu's head. 

---

[Round Sif]

"These are dirty tricks...of a Sif Marine!" 

Through the fog of dust, Sif strikes out at Buffalo, a rounded shadow piercing through and reaching for the soldier. As the dust clears, around each of her fists...was an enormous rock. 

"Hog Hog Stone Mitts," she says simply, smiling broadly while brandishing her new makeshift weapons. "A secret technique passed down from the Hogs of my home island!" She says, though it was clear this was obviously a bluff, something even the goats around her seem to doubt, one of which rolled its eyes at the marines antics. Wait, goats? Goats...

"GOATS!" Sif shouts, starry-eyed as she looks back to the army of capra moving in on the army pouring from the castle gates. 

"GO GET EM, GOATS!" The young woman says, laughing loudly before turning back to Buffalo. "Oh, now that my friends can leave us alone...let's finish this! I'll take you out, and then your boss is next!" 

Hair bristling, Sif digs her hooves against the ground before charging, stone-covered fists reared back to attack. A wild smile crosses her bestial face as she grinds one hand against the ground, a trail of dust following in her wake. "Your blade's real tricky, makes it hard to move in. But, with these, I'll bet I can get at least one hit on ya...and one hit's all I need!" 

With that, Sif sends one fist upwards for a devastating uppercut, though she was sure Buffalo would block it. As long as she could protect her fist, she could bet that he'd be distracted enough for her to send her other fist into his gut.

[Fennec]

[Kabu Round]

Lucky for the Tengu the goats had saved him from a fatal blow. The onslaught however did make it harder for him to keep riding his noble steed (the goat king) but it did mean the format of this fight could change. Brisket had tenacity and youth on her side, Kabu had to admit that much. But what the woman lacked was skill and experience! Something Kabu had garnered during his stay as a battle medic on a Marine ship that sailed the Grand Line back during Gol D. Roger's time.

"This is your last chance! Kamisori!"

Kabu commanded as he stood on top of his goat with great balance for his age. Stretching his back he cracked it a few times... he just wasn't built like before. But no matter it was worth the try! With a leap up in the sky the Tengu began to quite literally fly with the use of 'Kamisori' an advanced marine technique that employed both the use of Geppo and Soru! This in turn allowed the Tengu to zigzag his way through the air in three dimensions. Holding his naginata out he prepared for a wide-sweeping swing aimed at Brisket as he zipped through the air like a red blur.

"RED TEMPEST: WRATH OF SUZAKU!"

The Tengu yelled out as he went for his wide-sweeping signature attack. The sound of thunder boomed across the battlefield as he swung his powerful naginata down at the woman before him. This technique while powerful was extremely telegraphed and could easily be avoided by those quick enough.

[Buffalo]

Buffalo was blasted with the barrage of strikes from Sif and subsequently knocked back a bit. He had been unable to block those attacks due to a combination of the dust and the incoming stampede of goats. Blood started to out of his mouth as he took heavy damage from Sif but of course, the bandit was made of tougher stuff than most. He stared at Sif with an angry expression as she spoke about her made-up technique learned from the supposed hogs from some distant island.

"Oh, so we're showing now huh? I'll show you a technique of my own... one taught by the phoenix monks of Hoo-Hoo Island."

Grabbing onto his Yari tightly the guard began to spin it around rapidly. The friction from the rapid spinning began to produce flames around both ends of the Yari! Until he stopped spinning the now flaming spear. With a powerful twist of his body, he produces a burning wind that lit the grass around him and Sif on fire. This in turn caused all the goats rushing in to stay out of their range and created an arena for both of them to battle in.

"Buffalo Wings Buffet!"

The man yelled out lifting his flaming spear as he prepared for Sif's new attack. He quickly blocked the uppercut with ease despite his terrible condition he was still strong enough to go toe to toe with Sif. However, after blocking her attack the bandit prepared his attack.

"Alright... no more games! Here goes my signature attack! The monks who taught me said it could take down a charging elephant! BUFFALO CALIENTE: HABANERO PHOENIX!"

Buffalo yelled out as he jumped across the air toward Sif, raising his spear high up in the air! The flames around the tip of his yari took the yard of a flaming phoenix! Despite this attack being a very powerful attack, it left Buffalo very open for an incoming attack from Sif... the final blow which Sif needed.

[Reynard]

As Reynard slinked around he finally managed to make it over the front gate. That's when he saw Sif in the thick of the fight, in shock of the fight happening before him he transformed back into his human form. Tears began to run down his eyes as he watched this complete stranger come after him to save him. Twice now in his life, something like this happens to him... the Fox-man considered himself very lucky. These sorts of things were what inspired him to keep going as a Marine. It was the reason why he wanted to be a hero... if he could inspire other good nature to be like this then his job would be done.

"SIF!!!"

The marine yelled, his voice crossing through the entire battlefield like thunder. Everyone on sight stopping for a solid minute to take a look at him. All in an intent to get Sif's attention. Trying to let her know that he was fine, that he was alive. Despite his initial boost of happiness, he made a dire mistake as his emotions took over him. From behind a large shadow was cast over him... Wagyu.

"Well, well, well... what do we have here?"

Wagyu said tapping her large bone against her palm like a bully. The pink-haired bandit smirked.

"Treachery... I guess I'll have to punish you for this little bastard."

Rising her bone-club up in the air the woman went for a downward strike on Reynard. However, the seaman was quick. "Soru!" He yelled out as he ran out of harm's way. Behind the woman. His back was arched as his eyes stared up at the large cumbersome figure before him.

---

Kabu #ce5a0b
Buffalo #6f9fe4
Brisket #e6be19
Goats #e1cedc
Bandits Mooks #4b4f55
Reynard #eb904d
Wagyu #eec8ea

[mildofthewild]

"E-eh?! He's...

"He's flying?!" Brisket shouts, stopping in her tracks as she watches Kabu in motion, his own quick footwork allowing him control over the skies and, effectively, three-dimensional space. His history among the last great generation put a noticeable distance between his own skill and the rookie Brisket's, the young girl unable to comprehend such movement. 

I can't believe it...people like him...really exist...

The girl, in such awe, couldn't keep track of Kabu's movement in time, leaving her open for his signature technique. The blur manifests in front of her as she watches the blade swing for her. Is this how it would end? A love affair...left without love...

SNAP!

She had no choice. Left with very little else to keep herself safe, Brisket holds her wooden baton in front of her, catching the naginata and sending it to the left as it just barely swipes past her cheek. The blade cuts through the air, nicking off a few strands of her hair before embedding itself into the stone work. No...Kabu was open! Brisket's next attack would surely be a ferocious one, the young woman having undergone such intense figh-

"Zzzzzzzzzzzz..."

Brisket's head rolls to the side, her eyes blank as she stares straight into the blue sky above, body frozen by the shock of near death. It seems she didn't have that much faith that she would save herself...well, at least that was one problem solved. 

"B...buffalo...mmmsorrycouldntdoitavengememyloooooove..."

BRISKET: RETIRED!

---

Sif's savage grin turns to a confused pout, the young marine unsure what exactly Buffalo was up to...

Before his Yari burst into flames!

"WHAAAAAAAAT?! How did you do that?! Where did you get fi-" She starts, blabbering and shouting unintelligibly before smoke rises from behind her. The girl slowly turns, face reddening along with the seat of her pants! Her ass was on fire!

"YOOOOOOOOOW!" 

Dancing on her feet, the marine fans and pats at her derriere, tears streaming down her face as she tries to soothe her aching rear. In no time, however, she could see Buffalo preparing his signature attack...and that definitely didn't look like something she could take head on. 

"Dammit...you wanna go head to head?! Fine! I'll show ya I'm not all talk...I'll prove it! I'm Sif Gunhildr, AND I'M SAVING MY FRIEND!" Sif says, rearing her fist back, the stone caked around her hand cracking slightly from the strength building behind her attack. To get in his weak spot...she'd have to go within the attack!

"HOG HOG STONE PISTON!"

Her muscles coil and bunch before whipping back into shape, Sif plunging her fist forward to catch Buffalo in the body. Of course, doing so left herself open as well...

SHINK!

"Gyah!" 

Blood spurts and sizzles as Buffalo's spear digs into Sif's shoulder, the woman narrowly dodging a fatal blow but still taking the brunt of the attack. Hopefully the blow she deals to the soldier would be enough to end it all...

[Fennec]

[Kabu Round]

It all happened so fast. As Kabu went for the strike the woman stood in complete and utter shock awaiting his incoming strike. Something about the way he moved must have shaken her down to her very core. A simple mind the East Blue could hardly comprehend what years of training and combat in the Grand Line could do. Not that Kabu was even that strong at his stage... he had degraded a lot in his old age. But in his prime, the man could have likely taken on the whole village of bandits single-handedly. Such was his fall from grace. Yet, despite all that... he whiffed it.

"Damn it!"

The Tengu cursed, as his strike went past the blonde woman's haircutting it and narrowly missing her. This of course left him open... but it wasn't like it mattered. Brisket was instantly knocked out... but not because of Kabu hitting her. Rather, it was a product of his presence... his sheer display of strength had been enough to shock the woman to her very core. Enough to knock her out in that very moment. Landing on his feet just ways behind her Kabu kneeled next to his opponent and checked her vitals.

"Ok... good she's alive."

He muttered, Kabu was a fighter but he was a doctor first and no doctor worth their salt killed people. Even enemies were spared death and healed to back to full capacity. Such was the honor of a doctor... their hands were to heal. From the distance in the battlefield, Kabu heard Sif's voice which prompted him to quickly turn around and view the woman in action... surrounded by flames the battle was at its height.

"By the mountain gods! Sif watch out!"


Kabu stood up and yelled at the woman putting one hand out as if to demand attention.

[Buffalo]

This woman was a fool! Did she expect to defeat him? She would never expect to defeat him! He was the greatest fighter on this entire island! Or at least that's what he thought... admittedly Buffalo had a rather grandiose vision of himself.

"I will make boss PROUD!!!"

Buffalo yelled as he came crashing down ignoring Sif's attack completely. This in turn allowed him to embed the Yari into her shoulder slightly cutting the top of it but overall missing the mark as the rest of the spear crashed into the rocky ground behind Sif leaving a searing crater. Of course, that costed him as Sif hit him in the crotch sending a surge of pain through his already weakened body. Blood came out of his mouth as his eyes rolled into the back of his head...

"Gahhhh!!"

The bandit's yell of pain filled the air around him and as he dropped his weapon. As Buffalo back onto the rocky ground the flaming ring dissipated... almost as if the flames had been an extension of his will... of his soul. Buffalo, the supposed best warrior on the island... was out for the count.

BUFFALO: RETIRED

[Reynard]

This was the hardest battle the one against the one and only Wagyu. The marine had fought a man with a seven million bounty and won. Another with a ten million bounty and gone even. With the average bounty in the East Blue being no more than three million it was clear that Reynard as well as those who he had fought were cut above the rest. Of course, the young man could attribute this to his Mink ancestry... through his veins ran the blood of a race of warriors one who he had only heard in passing legends. That beastly fury lived within him too... and for that reason, his instincts were going haywire while fighting Wagyu. A distant latent part of him could sense her threat level was higher than normal. Especially in his state, he didn't stand much of a chance.

The hulking armored woman turned around watching Reynard move at high speeds behind her. Soru? She thought to herself... that was a new one. Moving at such speed despite being injured proved to her that perhaps Reynard was a respectable warrior. Even so, she believed herself leagues above the young man especially while in his injured state. Perhaps on a better day, Reynard could have made for a more interesting tumble.

"Pyahahaha! You're a fast kid... but those fast feet of yours won't save you from me. In your state, you're as good as dead if you even try to go toe to toe with me pyahahaha!"

Wagyu grinned maliciously.

"You belong to me now kid... and there is nothing you can do about it..."

Reynard stood still, those words did it... he had heard enough. Hearing the sound of his own heartbeat... he felt his rage take over slowly... the world, it began to stretch and shift around him until it disappeared. It was all gone replaced by nothing but darkness. In this playing field in this instant it was just him and Wagyu... perhaps that was the adrenaline coursing through him that was speaking. With a single blink, Reynard's eyes changed... his fox-like eyes becoming even more prominent as the slit that formed his pupil became even thinner like a fox about to pounce on its prey.

"SHUT UP!!"

He yelled at the top of his lungs loud enough for everyone around the battlefield to hear. The very sound of his voice seemed to shake the trees around him slightly and the world seemed to go silent. Still yelling those words the marine leaped at full speed straight at Wagyu, one arm cocked back ready to pack a punch straight at the woman's face.

*WAM*

The sound of flesh striking flesh was heard loud and clear as Reynard punched Wagyu across the cheek with all his might. Echoing through his mind the sound of his strike filled his ears... he had no regrets. If he had to die fighting for his freedom and his dreams then he would. Wagyu could find herself a new chef if she wanted to! But the marine wasn't about to become this bandit's slave boy.

The very strike caused Wagyu to recoil and be sent sliding back building up a cloud of dust. The bandit queen was shaken to her very core... she simply stood there watching the boy before her. Reynard too stood before the woman panting as the dust clouds cleared up. His eyes were locked on Wagyu as his body shook and his clenched fists. Wagyu still in a state of shock touched her cheek which now had a massive red bruise on it from the strike. Finally, it was Reynard who broke the silence...

"Shut."

He paused.

"Up."

Raising his hand he pointed his fist at Wagyu still shaking from the adrenaline coursing through him. His hand hurt... he would be a liar to deny that.

"I will fight... and I will not die. I will take you in... I will stop you and there is nothing you can do about it."

Reynard announced taking his Marine shirt off. His bandages stained in blood now becoming clear! Ready for all the world to see in full display! Those words did it, they made Wagyu crack... she snapped out of her trance as her face contorted in anger. As she launched her threat full of ill will and wrath.

"NOW YOU DONE IT, KID! I was gonna let you out easy! But I'm going to tenderize your ass to death!"

---

Kabu #ce5a0b
Buffalo #6f9fe4
Brisket #e6be19
Goats #e1cedc
Bandits Mooks #4b4f55
Reynard #eb904d
Wagyu #eec8ea

[mildofthewild]

The battle was over. Several Choice-Cut members look on in awe as Sif and Kabu stand tall amidst the wreckage from both encounters. There were plenty of strong members of the raiding ronin, but Buffalo and Brisket were fine examples of true prowess. Yet both had been swept off their feet by...by a Marine recruit and some old man?!

"I can't believe it...Buffalo, Brisket..."

"Who are these two?! They just came in and took those two out!"

"Gkk, damn...I wanted to save my strength, but that guy was tough..." Sif says, finally able to let off a sigh as she reverts to her human form, losing a few inches but keeping the gushing wound from Buffalo's attack. Sif puts pressure down with her arm, wincing as she feels her slick blood pour between her fingers. Before she can ask Kabu for some of that magic green gunk (something a lot catchier in her mind," she could hear another battle raging...

"YEAH, CHIEF WAGYU! KNOCK HIS ASS FLAT!"

The chanting of the other half of the Choice-Cut forces surrounds Wagyu and Reynard, almost blocking them from view, but Sif catches a few fleeting glimpses, her eyes shining as she watches Reynard fight. He was...incredible! Though she could see that the fight might not be a sure victory, with his opponent staggering back to her feet after every blow.  Reynard's cry tears through the crowd and rings in Sif's ears, chilling her with a sense of undying camaraderie. 

"That must be Wagyu...alright. Mr. Mochi! My friend is on the other side of that mob, fighting their chief! We gotta help!" 

A few of the samurai still reeling from shock compose themselves, turning their attention back on Sif and Kabu, brandishing their weapons menacingly. 

"Y-you! Don't you forget about us! Your victory was a fluke! You can't beat Chief Wagyu, you or your friend! Not that you'll get the chance to try! C'mon, let's charge 'em! We can take out some hog and a geezer!" 

Sif's eyes darken as she spies the wall moving towards them both. While she was riling for a fight, she knew there wasn't enough time! Mr. Aoki was strong, but that chief was no joke herself! 

"Mr. Mochi! You go on ahead, I'll catch up! HOG HOG BLITZ!" Sif transforms once more, her body widening as she reverts back to her hybrid form, wincing once more as a fresh spurt of blood erupts from her shoulder. If she doesn't hurry, she might be no use to Mr. Aoki either...

As her tusks erupt, Sif begins charging, a few of the samurai's eyes widening as they realize what they were aiming for....

"EEEEEEEEK! FALL BACK, FALL BA-OOOOMPH!" 

The tusks ram into the bodies of the approaching samurai, a dull THUD! accompanying them as they get pushed backwards towards their friends, most of which turn tail and run. Sif's tusks were working as battering rams!

"OUT OF MY WAY, YOU DIRTY TRUFFLE-THIEVES!" 

[Fennec]

[Reynard]

The recruit locked eyes with the ten-foot woman, his pupils still dilated. Had he really said that? Had he really done that? The reality of the situation began to settle on Reynard. But the more he thought about it, the less he cared. The more determined he grew... if Wagyu could be punched down like that then surely she could be defeated. She was a tough scary woman, but she was made of flesh and blood. Even his strike had caused her to be in a state of shock.

"Fat... chance..."

Reynard panted, his breath was heavy as he felt the pain of his wounds reopening once more. His sudden movements were damaging him, but he didn't care. It didn't matter to him. He was going to go on with this fight. He would win.

"I'm not dying today."

As he said those words Wagyu lifted her kanobo ready to strike the young man down. Reynard didn't dodge... instead, he went to clash the attack with a powerful kick of his own. Lance versus Mace! A legendary battle! The sound of the metal club clashing with Reynard's powerful kick made a loud booming sound echo through the battlefield.

*CLASH*

Wagyu growled pushing on Reynard, but the boy didn't budge. Both of them shook as the clash of kick and club made an impact. Locking eyes intently. Wagyu hated it, his defiance was not forgivable.

[Kabu and Sif]

Meanwhile, Sif was having a breeze... the rest of the bandits were just people with weapons. They weren't particularly special or skilled. Brisket and Buffalo were the strongest of the pack and now that they were down for the count the morale was rather low among the bandits. A lot of them simply fled or hid behind rocks avoiding Sif incoming like a boar.

"Sif hold up! You and your friend are hurt! We should retreat! Grrr... this lady will be the death of me."

Kabu groaned as he grabbed a hold of his Naginata and rushed after Sif. He too beat down a couple of the goons essentially cleaning his way toward Sif and Reynard. Nothing good could come of this... sure Wagyu was nothing compared to the denizens of the Grand Line. But here, in the East Blue!? She was a big shot!

[mildofthewild]

"RAAAAAAAAH!!"

Sif's hybrid body bulldozes through the crowd, several of the Choice Cuts being sent flying into the air while she pushes herself. The pain in her shoulder was flaring up, enough to put a noticeable wobble in her stride as she closes the distance.

Just a bit farther...just a bit farther, Mr. Mochi! I'd stop if I could...but if Mr. Ayoki were to get hurt, I'd never forgive myself! I gotta keep going...I'm gonna be the light in the seas! I'm gonna make sure no evil doers can enforce their wills like this!

"Grr..pant-pant...you small fry...GET OUT OF MY WAY!! DON'T YOU TOUCH MY FRIEND, YOU FAKE-STEAK-LADY!"

Sif breaks through the line, both Wagyu and Reynard's fight in clear line of sight while she pushes her way past the few inner forces that were holding her back. Seeing Wagyu now and Reynard helped to quell some of her fire; he was holding his own, after all, likely giving Wagyu the first real challenge of her life.

"KICK HER ASS, MR. AYOKI! WHAT'S SOME HALF NAKED DIMWIT GOT ON YOU?!"

[Fennec]

Reynard stayed concentrated on the fight, his reflex training and natural speed were paying off. As he was able to keep toe to toe with Wagyu's strikes blocking them all with his powerful kicks. The more he blocked the more frantic Wagyu got with her strikes, the pink-haired woman furrowed her brow angrily as veins began to pop on her forehead. Raw anger was boiling within her as this 'insignificant' seaman was opposing her. Who was this guy!? Where had he come from and why was he so damn strong!?

"JUST DIE ALREADY!"

The woman roared as she prepared an extremely empowered attack aimed straight toward Reynard. The marine's ears perked up as he saw the incoming steel club about to clobber him dead.

"Soru!"

He yelled running behind the woman, of course, that one took a bit out of him as he coughed up blood and felt something warm on his chest. His wounds were in a critical state, if he pushed himself more he could likely pass out... and that would be game over for him. Putting a hand over his abdomen he grits his teeth and closed one eye. Pain surging through his body.

"No..."

Reynard mumbled, preparing himself for an attack he leaped straight to Wagyu who was still turning around to meet his eye. With great power mustered up, he went for a kick!

"Kumiho Chagi!"

The marine yelled as he leaped forward with a powerful dropkick aimed at the woman's abdomen.

*clang*

It was the sound of his kick smashing into metal... Wagyu recoiled back grunting as the strike hit. It didn't break through the breastplate... no it was strong enough for that. But it did hurt anyway... and was strong enough to send her back. A strike like that would leave a bruise. Rolling onto the ground Reynard knelt, it... wasn't enough. He had to up his game. If he wanted to defeat Wagyu he had to break through her steel.

With a face of determination, the Marine stared directly at Wagyu... he had to do the impossible! He had to break steel. This was exactly what stood between him and Kikori back in Shell Town. If only I had known how to break metal... then he could have saved his fellow seamen and again here he was with a similar problem. Except instead of others it was himself and if he couldn't save himself then how could he expect to save others? It was destiny. He had to break metal here and now or he would never achieve his dream. But... how?

That's when it hit him... the ancient knights of the North Blue! They could break through armor by charging at an enemy on top of a horse with a lance at hand! Of course. But, there was one problem. He didn't have a horse or a lance... heavily breathing he closed his eyes as Wagyu threw curses at him and made her way toward the downed Marine. What if... what if he could run faster than a horse? Reynard was the fastest person he knew... and what if... what if his leg was his Lance? A kick powerful enough to not only pierce armor but also the scales of a dragon. That was it... that's what he needed. Then, reality hit as Wagyu's shadow was upon him. She was extremely angry, the glare she gave him said it all.

"You b*tch... I'll show-"

Wagyu was cut off by a familiar screaming! It was Sif yelling at him! Telling him he could do it... as Reynard stood up he groaned. The wound was bleeding even more than before... his knees started to feel weak. That kick was feeling like a hopeful unreachable dream.

"KICK HER ASS, MR. AYOKI! WHAT'S SOME HALF NAKED DIMWIT GOT ON YOU?!"

Sif yelled out catching Wagyu's attention, the already angered woman was starting to think irrationally. She gave the bleeding Reynard a look of despair.

"Your dead anyway... I'll come to finish you off after I tenderize this dimwit hog."

She said lugging the club over her shoulder and walking toward Sif. Reynard meanwhile panted heavily looking over at things unfold... he wanted to say something. But his mind was busy racing with thoughts. How...? How to beat Wagyu? Looking over Sif's damaged frame he began to wonder what to do. That's when out of the crowd a red-skinned man popped out.

"Sif! Don't stand still let's get your friend out of here and leave!"

A friend? An ally... looking over at Wagyu the marine had a thought. He wasn't at full strength... he probably had enough power left to break through the armor. But not enough to fully knockdown Wagyu.

"SIF I HAVE A PLAN!"

Reynard yelled out just as Wagyu was right upon Sif. There was no time to explain... now was the time to strike.

[mildofthewild]

Things weren't looking good. No matter how fast Mr. Ayoki was, no matter how fierce each attack of his struck, nothing was breaking through that armor! Wagyu was one tough cookie, and Sif was amazed to see such ferocity from someone. Each confrontation she met in these waters, she was confident in how much strength she commanded over the opposition, but here? Against these samurai? Buffalo and Brisket had already proved a tough match up, and Wagyu herself was only even more fierce? How could they fight such a monster?

"Sif! Don't stand still let's get your friend out of here and leave!"

Sif breaks out of her thoughts, looking back to Kabu and nodding. The Tengu was right...they had to conserve their strength! But...but seeing Wagyu throwing her new friend around, realizing how much fierce power this woman held over this island...she couldn't just walk away. What kind of marine would she be to leave her to her own devices! 

She was trying to fight against her nature, but Mr. Ayoki called out to her, drawing her attention. That shout...so full of purpose. He had a plan? Looking back to Wagyu as she stomped her way over, Sif felt a pang of anxiety...but also with a sense of trust building in her. That's what friends do...they trust each other. If Reynard needed her, then she'd step up to the plate. If she was going to strike terror into all ne'er do wells and criminals, then this would be where it starts. 

"I'm sorry Mr. Mochi...but have faith in Mr. Ayoki! He says he has a plan...so I have to help him with that plan! We have to! We just have to keep her busy...besides, didn't you hear what she called me?! Some dumb hog...

"Well, listen up!" She says, standing straight and glaring daggers into Wagyu. Behind her eyes, there was no hint of fear...only defiance! Such insolence likely was unknown to Wagyu, and from two mere marines?! This was inconceivable, incorrigible...unacceptable. 

"It's gonna really suck when you get your ass kicked by this dimwit hog! And my name is Sif Gunhildr! When you call me, you better say it right, you dumb, half-naked, overblown meathead!" 

The members of the Choice-Cuts reel in absolute horror, their faces contorted in shock and fear as they look back to their leader, quickly moving out of the way of her eventual flare up. 

"Sh-she called Chief Wagyu--"

"Hey, m-maybe she didn't hear! Maybe it'll be alright--"

"I've said it once! I've said it twice! And i'm gonna say it again!" Sif continues, hands firmly on her hips as she stares up at Wagyu. The woman easily cleared her in height, but the sheer fire in Sif's eyes wasn't backing down. "As of today, the Choice Cuts are hereby dissolved!"

"AAAAAAAAH! SH-SHE SAID WHAT?!?" 

"SHUT UP, YOU STUPID HOG, YOU'RE GONNA PISS OFF THE CHIEF!"

"EVERYBODY CLEAR OUT BEFORE SHE LOSES IT!" 

The Choice-Cuts members scurry away, leaving a faint path leading right to Sif. The woman points at her head, still glaring at Wagyu while puffing up her chest. Blood spurts again from her wound, though she does a much better job of hiding the pain. 

"Go ahead, hit me as hard as you can! I can take anything you dish out, sister! What's some punk with a club to the marines?!? Hit me, and then, I swear it...

"WE'LL TAKE YOU OUT!" Sif bellows, her face contorting in pure rage as she challenges Wagyu's very authority, the crowd aghast in pure terror!

"She's crazy!"

"She's dead for sure!"

"But you gotta admit, that hog's got guts!" 

[Fennec]

[Perspective One: Reynard]

Eyes locked. Precise. Determined. His vulpine eyes returning to be slit as he was ready. The primal instincts that had been holding him before returning with greater vigor. This was it. It was his chance. His time. He. Had. To. Win. No questions asked Sif had accepted the devil's contract... with a demonic smile the vulpine figure got on all fours like a marathon runner about to start. An imagery countdown began... but no voice was there. Perhaps it was the heating up fury talking. The combusting flames of the soul. Passion. It radiated along with a thousand other emotions. The voice, soft and luscious spoke up in his mind. But the numbers weren't heard. It was white noise to the fox. Just three words were spoken.

Ready.

Set.

Go.

With the speed of a warhorse, he made his way to Wagyu. The ground rumbled, a small tremor was forming around it. Not enough to unbalance anyone. Not enough to even be immediately noticed. It was small, quiet. Just enough to ripple nearby puddles. Just enough to cause pebbles to be lifted a few centimeters. Like a host of a devilish calvary herald by one of the lords of heaven, charging at full speed a rumble was heard. War. War had been declared and Reynard was the lord. Yes, that was his name. Reynard and he would become the greatest hero the world would ever know.

"Kumiho Chagi: Gwan!"

The marine yelled in a shrill voice as he launched himself at Wagyu. The woman at this point had turned around to look at him... her glare of pride slowly changing as his foot clashed against her breastplate.

*BOOM*

Like the sound of thunder, the boy shattered the armor. Then. Silence as his body fell to the ground, arms opened up as he looked up at the spiraling never-ending sky. He did it. Broken steel, the ceiling had been broken.

"NOW! SIF!"

He yelled.

---

[Perspective Two: Wagyu]

Wagyu was bursting with anger, she was like a volcano about to blow. All this defiance... why didn't they just run? Why didn't they just expire and give up! Didn't they know!? She was Wagyu! The one who would one day conquer the East Blue and carve her way to the top. Piracy was dead! If no one would make a name for Mountain Bandits then. Well. She would!

"I-"

The pink-haired woman prepared to say but was interrupted. Sif didn't stop... she hadn't stopped. A war of bandits clashing with goats still raging in the background. Wagyu was pissed, but what was said next made her even angrier. The bandit was well within the point of no return. Dissolved? What!? How could she say that? That blow was too big for Wagyu's massive ego.

"You want to become minced meat!? SO BE IT! MEAT-BRAWLER'S TECHNIQUE! GRILLED BURGER SPECIAL!"

Raising her club high up in the air she was about to come down on Sif! The iron club becoming ignited by flame as it made its way down to strike on Sif. But then, it happened. The rumble. What? There was a calvary? How? How could they have made it up the mountains? Slowly turning around Wagyu looked at Reynard making his way toward her... his aura was now different.

Distracted by the turn of events her strike ended up missing as she wasn't even looking at Sif. The marine's aura didn't have rage. It didn't have any emotion. It was blank and clean. Yet the energy he produced was shocking. He was like a full army of charging knights and yet. He was the army's commander all the same. For a split second, Wagyu let go of her ego. Was he just a normal seaman? Then. In that very second, she got her answer.

*BOOM*

It was like getting shot by a cannonball at point-blank. Wagyu grit her teeth as she felt pushed back. Pieces of metal flew around, and yet she was still on foot. It was a fluke. But it wasn't Reynard who got lucky. It was Wagyu and even she had to admit that to herself. That kick. It wasn't at full power. In shock, Wagyu stood still... she wasn't sure how to react. How to proceed.

---

[Perspective Three: Kabu]

"EHHHH!?"

Kabu simply exclaimed his face contorting to one of surprise. Did she lose it!? They stood no chance against Wagyu! Sure Sif was strong and her friend seemed strong but they were being too hopeful.

"Sif listen to yourself talk!"

The Tengu exclaimed angrily as Wagyu was finally looming over them. Of course, Kabu wasn't the only one shook by Sif's words... the bandits were also in shock. How could someone be so bold? Was Sif stupid or brave? Or some combination of the two!? But Sif wasn't done... no she had more to say and the more she said the more Kabu felt like he was about to faint.

"Sif stoop!"

Kabu rushed over to Sif and held her trying to get her attention. But it was too late. Wagyu was pissed.

"You want to become minced meat!? SO BE IT! MEAT-BRAWLER'S TECHNIQUE! GRILLED BURGER SPECIAL!"

The Tengu winced watching Wagyu lift her flaming club in the air about to crush them. With the speed of the wind he took hold of Sif and ran out of the way with her clutched in his arms. He was too distracted by his fear and will to save Sif from certain death that he didn't register Reynard.

*BOOM*

Was that... the strike? Kabu questioned, it sounded too strong... even for Wagyu. Turning around he saw the scene just finishing to unfold. No. It was Sif's friend... he... he broke through the armor? Kabu was shaken as he was remembered of his own younger years in the Marines. Believe it or not, at one point in his life he too had been capable of such feats. But age and lack of training had put him out of shape. Still, this was the East Blue... monsters like that were not a dime a dozen. Both Sif and this lad were special.

"NOW! SIF!"


There came the command, one that even Kabu felt compelled to follow through. Without armor and still in shock by the scene... Wagyu was easy pickings. Turning briefly over to Sif, Kabu smiled.

"You heard the lad! Let's get that meathead!"

Rushing at full speed Wagyu prepared for his attack!

"I call this one! The Spiraling Nijin!"

Jumping through the air the old man spun around like a drill headed straight toward Wagyu. Sif just had to follow through and this fight would be over.

---

(Since you have been doing a great job with the reaction of the bandits I thought I would give you the honors.)

[mildofthewild]

Silence. It looms over the battlefield, every fighter stopping in their tracks at the overbearing peace and quiet. The eye of the storm washes over each bandit as they look back to their chief. That fox's power...it was flaring and then spent in an instant. A raging burst followed by a flickering flame. 

"...H-hehe, hiihihihi! Th-that's it! Hahaha, even for all that talk, he couldn't break through the chie-"

CRASH!

The words catch on the Choice Cuts' tongues, each bandits eyes widening in abject horror as they look back to their chief. She looks fine, none the worse for wear, but the shock plastered on her face tells the story. Her mind is reeling from the immense power on display...and that's when one sharp eye saw...

"Ch-chief...Chief Wagyu, her...

"HER ARMOR'S BUSTED!" 

Screams rip and echo across the field, the Choice Cuts blown back by the revelation that their Chief's impenetrable defense...was broken!

"H-how did this happen?!"

"Idiot, this is just a trick! It's gotta be!"

"The shards are all over the place! It's broken clean!"

"Is this cause I didn't polish it right?! I'm sorry, Chief Wagyu!!!"

The cacophony brings Sif back to her senses, the woman nearly blanking out when she saw Wagyu swinging her club. A flash of light in her eyes had made her think she was seeing heaven...but it was only Kabu's beard. He pulled her away just in the nick of time!

"Oi, Mr. Mochi, what was that for!? I coulda taken it!" Sif whines, cheeks puffing up as her face flusters red, though a look at the crater left in Wagyu's wake does drain the color from her cheeks...

"...O-okay, maybe I did get carried away..." She starts, sheepishly admitting her own foolishness before she notices Wagyu's form now. Aghast, frightened...oh? What's this? 

Vulnerable. 

"NOW! SIF!"

Sif casts another glance at Reynard, her grin widening once more as she nods, watching Kabu take off for his own counterattack. She couldn't just throw a punch...she had to put everything into it, for all the pain that this Wagyu put them through...

"OKAAAAAAAAY!" 

Sif dances from foot to foot, her body shivering in anticipation as it slowly begins to transform once more. Her body slowly shrinks, the woman now on all fours as she assumes her Boar form, snorting tendrils of steam from her nose before rushing forth. She has to build up speed in this form...then she could unleash it all at once in her hybrid form when she gets close! This was something she spent a few nights perfecting...Hog Hog Speedway...


"Hueh? Whass..." One bandit looks back, a breeze blowing his helmet away as Kabu races by, the old Tengu closing the gap to Wagyu. 

"O-oh crap! Choice Cuts, that old Tengu bastard is moving in! Protect the chi-AUGH!" He manages to get out before he's bowled over, Sif's smaller stature ramming itself into his legs to send him flying behind her. A line of bandits rise into the air as Sif plows through, her small eyes now centering on Wagyu's vulnerable chest. 

"I-it's the hog woman! Don't let her get close!" 

Their cries fail to faze Sif as she pushes on, only a few meters separating her from the Bandit Chief. Slowly her body morphs again, her Hybrid Form rising and giving her bipedal movement as she brings her fists to bare...

---

"hrrrm...oooooh, my head..." 

Brisket's eyes slowly blink open, noting the thin coating of Sheep drool on her cheek as she shoos the animals away in disgust. She remembers...an old guy...some hog...but why did she fall asleep...

"Hooo, now I remember...I just managed to dodge that Tengu-" She says, starting to reminisce before noting Buffalo's prone form as well, the soldier having been bested by Sif earlier in a contest of wills. 

"BUFFALO!" Brisket exclaims, scurrying over unceremoniously, cradling the downed warriors head and holding it close.

"Buffaloareyouokay,Ishould'vebeenmorecarefulohi'msosorryi'llneverletyougoagain!" She blubbers in a mess of unintelligible crying, all while the unconscious Buffalo jolts back awake. Brisket's "cradling" jostles his bruised and tender bones, the man struggling to catch his breath while also straining to speak through the pain. 

"B-bri-briskeeeeeh..."

"No, don't speak! Save your strength, who knows how much pain you're in!" Brisket sees his choking words, hugging him even tighter and pushing in on his fractured ribs, only causing the main to shiver in even more pain. "GYOH! Gyehhh...B-Brisket....y-you're...you're hurting-"

"I know I am, but don't worry about me! You must worry about yourself! Oh what that hog did to you! When I find her," Brisket says through gritted teeth, her clenching fists only sending more shocks of agony through Buffalo's body, the man realizing it would be far more pertinent to stop talking and save himself the pain...

However, a flying figure only exacerbates it...

"Eh? Who's...E-eh?! Wagyu-sama, when did she...what happened to her armor?! What the hell happened while I was knocked out!?" Brisket cries, only to look in awe as Sif approaches her chieftain, arms rearing back...

"L-LOOK OUT CHIEF WAGYU!!!!!" 

"HOG HOG...SPEEEEEEEDWAY!!!!" Sif cries out, both of her fists shooting forth and slamming into the chief full-force, the momentum of her previous sprint being carried along with her utter rage. 

[Fennec]

It was done, Reynard groaned in pain as he stood on his knees, leaning a hand on the stony ground. He watched as Sif and Kabu rush in at full speed... the Tengu coming in like a torpedo and Sif like a car bomb rushing through the fodder bandits. Panting heavily he stood there watching his plan unfold... Wagyu... had accepted her defeat.

*WHAM*

The sound of Kabu and Sif's impact cracked like lighting hitting Wagyu from behind. Blood spluttered from the former bandit leader's mouth as she was pushed forward and collapsed on the ground in defeat. This set off a chain reaction of all bandits in the camp getting ready to book it. A few did make it out! However a few got blocked out by the goats who were still present. 

"OI! WAGYU-SAMA IS DOWN! LETS BOOK IT! THESE GUYS ARE FREAKS! WATCH OUT FOR THE GOATS!" 

They yelled trying to come out of the complex.

"BAAAAAAAH!" 

Reynard still panting heavily on the ground smiled... then broke out into laughter. He did it, they did it... finally. He was free.

"Hahahaha! Sif! We did it! You saved me!"

Reynard laughed, his face bloodied as he collapsed on the ground. He was in a lot of pain but it didn't matter to him, the joy of having won. Of having surpassed this grand obstacle... he got to live. Yet another day. He broke a milestone and was now one step closer to achieving his dream. There on the ground staring at the sky he let breathed slowly, his body slowly calming down. The tension was now over.

"We did it Sif! The boy is right! I don't know how... but we did it."

Kabu announced himself, he was smiling happily as well. However, he soon noticed Reynard's terrible condition and rushed over to him, his face showing a comical amount of concern.

"Boy! Stop moving!"

He commanded Reynard who was standing still simply lifted a brow.

---

Meanwhile...
From a nearby treetop...

*crunch crunch crunch*

The sound of munching was heard, a green-haired man holding a spyglass staring out at the scene. He had a bag of pork rinds which he was munching on and a fishing rod strapped to his back. Lowering his binoculars he squinted at the scene before lifting his wrist which housed a baby Den Den Mushi.

"This is King Fisher! I repeat King Fisher reporting to Ensign Leena... I have located Sif... and boy is this quite the sight."

From the other side, a tall woman answered pulling out her Den Den Mushi. She was surrounded by various seamen who marched alongside her in the same mountain pass that Kabu and Sif had traversed just moments earlier.

"Noted, Jack! We're closing in."

The woman said with an annoyed tone, Sif had missed the roll call and now was forcing her entire team to come after her. They should have left for the Yotsuba Region about two hours ago already!

"This way this way!"

Bandits exclaimed running down the pass... however, the sight of Marines marching in. With faces of defeat, they all lifted their hands... there was no escape. It wouldn't be long before they were apprehended by the marine forces.

---

SPOILER: Click to show

{Spoiler} If you want to take hold of Leena be my guest I feel some goofy antics are about to ensue. As for Brisket and Buffalo, I imagine they are the only two bandits that'll escape.

Kabu #ce5a0b
Buffalo #6f9fe4
Brisket #e6be19
Goats #e1cedc
Bandits Mooks #4b4f55
Reynard #eb904d
Wagyu #eec8ea
Jack #94e868
Leena #eef8f8

[mildofthewild]

Sif grins broadly, stumbling backward from the blow to Wagyu. A deep, raucous chuckle blows out as she watches the Choice Cuts running in terror, Sif proudly standing and pumping her fists in the air at their departure. 

"I-it's like I said! Hahaha, THE CHOICE CUTS ARE DISSOLVED! ...Ow," she says, before falling on her back heavily. Fatigue finally catches up to the young woman, her breath coming out in short, rapid pumps as she looks over to Reynard and Kabu. Slowly, Sif flops onto her front and begins making her way to her two friends. 

"Mr. Ayoki...you were amazing! Wasn't he amazing, Mr. Kabu, hehehe-ow! Ehhh...I feel like I overdid it though..." Sif says, looking around at the remnants of their battle. Boy, there was a lot of clean up they'd have to do...just thinking about it makes her shiver in dread...

"Maybe I should go find our fellow officers; Mr. Kabu can fix you up, Mr. Ayoki, he's a healer! He gave me green goop and my cut felt much better!" Sif says, struggling to her feet before throwing a thumbs up. She could bear it so long as she finds the other Marines! Although, before she leaves...

"...Eh?"

Behind a certain tree, a rather large spear and a very conspicuous figure stares out at them, a bit too wide for the base of the trunk...

"...I can see you, you know!" Sif shouts, pointing at the tree, face stern once more as she puts on the persona of the fierce bringer of justice!

"...No you can't."

"Wh-Yes I can! Idiot, your spear is sticking out!"

"Who are you calling idiot, you dumb hog! You're the idiot!"

Sif recoils from the fierce backtalk, her anger rising as she quivers in fury. 

"I'm not the idiot, you're the idiot, idiot!"

"You're an idiot times 100!"

"W-well you're an idiot times 1000!" 

"YOU'RE AN IDIOT TIMES INFINITY!"

"I-infinity?!" Sif takes a step back, unsure of how she can best such a lofty number. How can anyone go past infinity...