Bringing Down Blackeye! [Plot]

[Terminally Chill]

Thus far, the day in the quieter of the two Amino Island cities, Ana Nine, held nothing out of the ordinary. On one of the warmest islands in the North Blue, people wandered between the apartments and cafes that peppered Ana Nine. A low murmur accompanied the lazy, warm day. If anything was off about the scene, it was a particular young man who passed through the scattered crowd. The man's white shirt and dark blue trousers made up a uniform that was not often seen around these parts; Marines rarely visited this part of the North Blue. With his hand rested on the hilt of his katana and the other hand tipping his black fedora occasionally to passing citizens.

Dice Bando was the name of the young Marine, and for some reason Amino Island was the first place he had been stationed after becoming a Seaman Recruit. Regardless, the aspiring artist was happy to do his duty, and took his current task of patrolling Ana Nine rather seriously. Lately, a certain threat had become apparent near Amino Island and a small group of Marines were sent to be stationed at the island of two cities. Dice attempted to walk with an air of professionalism about him, presenting himself as a stern lawbringer to the citizens of Amino Island. Well... at least most of the citizens. The young Marine could not help but cave on his serious persona when a couple of pretty girls strolled by waving and giggling, causing Dice to tip his hat and wave in the most debonair manner he could muster. Come on... yeah, he was a Marine, but he was also a guy in his twenties.

As the two beauties walked out of sight, another spectacle caught the attention of Dice. A small group of people had gathered around some object of interest, whispering among themselves and looking concerned. Something was wrong. Considering Dice was supposed to be on patrol, he figured checking out the incident would be something a Marine should do... so smart. The new recruit pushed his way past the crowd, making his way toward the center.

“What's going on here, citizens?” Dice said, mustering up an authoritative voice as he neared whatever had attracted the group of people in the first place...

[BEX]

Warbled murmurs would reach his small round ears as he would lie on the unusually solid ground. A few well oiled shoes would surround him while various scopes of people who wouldn’t have much in common except for one thing; they all seemed relatively successful. Nothing of the current scope of people would mark them as any of the pirates that had kidnapped Li, but nonetheless the ever cautious man would peer at them from his back for several seconds before attempting to make any movements. Tears riddled his navy blue overcoat and his hat would be long gone wether taken during the transfer to the island or not, he wouldn’t know.

-Flashback-

Blinking into nothingness the young officer would attempt to call out in hopes of receiving a response only to find he would only be capable of mumbling incoherent sentences for a few moments while the taste of cold metal ripped at the sides of his mouth. They’d given him a bit. It occurred to him that he wasn’t even sure if it was pirates that had taken him aboard the ship, but then again he would vaguely recall being hauled into the cargo space then bound with thick ropes. This is all before they would service him with several mean spirited kicks to his exposed gut explained the roiling pain that flashed through his abdomen each time he would inhale. A wave of panic would leave him scrambling, lashing out in whatever manner that he could manage, but his movements would be rigid and quick bark followed by a blow the head would stymie his frenzy.

Blood dripped from his head, but his consciousness would waver to blankness once again as the blow’s effect became more apparent with each passing second. The last thing that would fill his ears would be the dulling thuds of his heartbeat as it slowed ever more making him wonder if this would be the last time that he would ever think a conscious thought,

“Sister…”

His head would bounce painfully as he would be moved yet another time though now it seemed that they had made it to land; what land they had made it two Li couldn’t tell though it seemed warm from the rays of heat that seeped through his tattered clothing. Grunting voices would shout sharply while shuffling feet hurried to meet their demands; it seemed that the pirates actually had order, a thought that would bring a smile to the kidnapped officer if the bit had not been forcing his expression at the moment. Eventually time would pass, how much time was a mystery, but Li would find himself resting with his back against a dank wooden wall with many noises surrounding him including the constant snickering of men. The bit would be removed from his mouth and the blind fold removed, yet even with these hindrances removed he would be able to make out nothing more than faint silhouettes from the single beam of light pouring in from somewhere above him.

“Whaddya think Officer?” came a cooing voice cutting into the bleakness surrounding him, but Li would make no noise, he couldn’t. The time for losing his head had passed and now his mind would work tirelessly to locate an exit or means of escaping, but alas there would be nothing that he could do as the man jeered and jostled as well as countless others though without light there would be no way to confirm this.

“How long do you think you can hold me here?” he would bravely question hoping to incite at least more than one of the men to speak giving him an estimate of how many were in the room and to his luck about seven various voices were confirmed with a suspected two more lurking, “…let me make myself clear…you’ve been tracked and there’s no-oof!”

The blow would cut off his speech and fill his mouth with salty blood, but the noise of something clattering nearby would make him smile in the darkness where no one could see him; these pirates were amateurs at best, but he’d have to be careful still. His fingers, though bound would eventually find the small sharp object while the men spoke amongst themselves and when he would manage to wrench the crusty rope to pieces he remained still simply waiting for the right opportunity to escape. This opportunity came in the night when the watch would fall asleep leaving only a vigilant Li Shengshung away and with catlike silence he would maneuver his way through the shack, which was all he could make out and slip out of the door before anyone would wake. Upon leaving his limited range of motion would carry him from the outskirts of the unknown island to a metropolis like city where exhaustion would overtake him leaving him on the hard ground for morning to find him and a plethora of people to observe him.

-Back to life, back to reality-

“What’s going on here, citizens?”

An officer. Summoning what little strength remained the well beaten officer would rise to his feet giving a start to the nearest of the crowd sending them scurrying off from him, but he made no notice of them as his eyes searched for a uniform; an officer meant that he’d made it back to civilization. Dimming eyes would set upon a rather fellow rather complacent for post, but Li would make a note of the colors he donned before opening his mouth with visible effort as his parched throat came to life,

“O-officer…L-Li Sheng-sheng…” he would stammer before his incomplete introduction would find him on the ground once more, though he didn’t rouse at the touch of a few of the citizens who would curiously tap the gritty youth to check if he were still alive.

Citizens could be so stupid.

[Terminally Chill]

“O-officer…L-Li Sheng-sheng…”

The partial identity of the injured man spilled from his bloodied mouth before he collapsed to the ground once more. Upon hearing “officer,” Dice's eyes widened in surprised. Judging by his dress, this man certainly was a Marine and most likely possessed a high rank. Yet here he was, in need of medical attention and lying in the streets of Ana Nine. Dice was taken aback, not quite sure what to make of the situation at first. The fresh recruit soon gained at least some of his composure, taking a step forward and attempting to disperse the curious citizens who were prodding the Ensign.

“B-b-back up!” Dice said, the authority he attempted to inject to his voice absent and replaced by shaken words. The proclaimed “artist” had hardly just been made a Marine, but the daunting task of potentially saving this man's life was now before him. The crowd took a couple steps back, complying with Dice's request to give the battered man some room. Stooping down, Dice was unsure of exactly what to do... so he took a page out of the crowd's book and poked Li once in the head. No response. However, Dice could at least tell the Ensign was breathing, so Li was not in totally incompetent hands...

Regardless, the new recruit at least knew that he had to get his fellow Marine back to the building the Marines on this island had chosen to occupy as an outpost of sorts. There Li could get medical attention and food. And so with a heave, Dice positioned his neck under the shoulder of the wounded law bringer, lifting Li to his feet and supporting the unconscious man's weight. Surely if Li still had his senses about him, Dice would be starstruck by his superior officer and bombard him with all sorts of questions. But for some reason, Li just didn't seem in the mood to talk right now.

The pair of Marines made their way through the streets of Anen Nine, attracting strange looks from the consumers who riddled the city. Marines were a rare sight, but this was just ridiculous. Dice simply ignored the odd glances, pressing onward with his injured comrade toward the Marine headquarters. He was possibly this only man's hope!

… Okay, probably not, but Dice definitely thought so.

The famed seagull insignia of the Marines was visible on a nearby building. They were nearly there. Although rather crude, it seemed as though Dice had successfully made his delivery of Li to civilization. Bursting through the door rather abruptly, fueled by his own feelings of status more than Li's condition, Dice called out to the surprised Marines in the building.

“This man is a Marine officer and he needs medical attention!” Dice called to the officers, once again in his “authoritative” voice. If Ensign Shengshung had not been draped across his shoulder, the new recruit would not have gotten away with barking such orders. Regardless, a couple Marines who understood the urgency of the situation quickly took the man from Dice's support and rushed him toward the area they had set up for medical attention. They placed the Ensign in one of the beds and called for a doctor to check his injuries.

As Dice looked on with worry, another Marine officer with a jacket draped across his shoulders watched the scene unfold, stroking his red beard thoughtfully as he looked to Li...

[BEX]

A subtle moan would escape the bandaged body of the treated Marine. With a gasp he would bolt to an upright position panting heavily as if he’d just awoken from a bad dream only to be surprised by the overzealous lighting that flooded his eye threatening to burn through his retina. Perhaps, it was exaggeration, nonetheless his acclimation to the light would undergo swiftly and would allow him to take note of his surroundings; he’d been moved to a facility of sorts. This revelation would distract him from the fact that he’d been bandaged and treated for a short time. When it would come to his attention that his wounds and various injuries had been treated he would examine the expertly done bandages before a glimmer of white and navy would be caught in his peripherals. Inclining his head slowly in the man’s direction a few moments would pass before any motion would be made on Li’s part, he would simply observe him through those deep, lightless eyes of his. It seemed he’d been brought to a Marine facility.

“Dice! I’ve verified this man’s—oh” the owner of the baritone authoritative voice would pause as he stared at the revitalized Li before glancing back at the Seaman recruit that had watched over him the whole time with a grin, “Ensign Officer Li Shengshun” the Captain would say with an obliging nod of respect.

Still uncertain, Li’s only reaction would be a distant nod of his own, however his eyes would remain trained on the gargantuan navy officer; the man was at least two heads taller than Li himself. With a languishing glance in Dice’s direction the Captain would frown thoughtfully as if he were considering saying something to the cavalier individual that would be placed near Li’s bedside,

“Bando…I’m leaving Officer Shengshun in your charge for the next few days” the Captain would inform the recruit, “Make sure he eats, sleeps, and doesn’t go overboard, understood?” he would ask rhetorically it seemed for he would quickly exit the room following a cacophony of noise.

Sighing Li would ruffle his hair to release some of the tension that came from his over analytic tendencies before throwing a handsome smile in the direction of his now caretaker’s direction; for a time it seemed being personable would make things easier for him. The fedora would draw his attention for a moment, but he would address the recruit with a light hearted tone as he stared him in the eyes,

“Seems I’ve caused you a great deal of trouble, I won’t do anything too irrational. Scout’s honor” he would joke placing his hand on his chest before extending it towards the recruit’s direction, “Now, I’m Li…and you are?” he would ask.

Inwardly his insides knotted with the effort being made towards meaningless banter; if words could kill Li would find himself dead after a few more encounters of frivolity. There were more important things to do than engaging in social bliss and being that he couldn’t do any of them only made matters worse.

[Terminally Chill]

“Ensign?!”

Although Dice did not recognize the name Li Shengshun in particular, he could certainly recognize a high rank when he heard one. Ensign was the first rank in which a Marine was considered a part of the “elite army,” so the fact that a lowly Seaman Recruit like Dice had found a man of such prestigious rank on the street and aided him in finding medical treatment was a bit much for the young Marine to handle. Surely he had done the Marines proud by aiding Li, and a bright future began to play itself out in the impressionable young recruit's head... that is until the tall Captain gave his orders to Dice.

“Bando…I’m leaving Officer Shengshun in your charge for the next few days. Make sure he eats, sleeps, and doesn’t go overboard, understood?”

Dice's eyes visibly widened upon hearing what job he had been given. Usually Marines at his rank were given mundane, everyday tasks. But this? This was on a different level entirely! As the Captain turned the leave, Dice quickly composed himself and stood at attention. “Yes, sir!” said the young recruit enthusiastically, giving a sincere salute as the Captain passed by him and left the room. Relaxing once more, Dice looked to Li as he addressed him.

“Seems I’ve caused you a great deal of trouble, I won’t do anything too irrational. Scout’s honor. Now, I’m Li…and you are?”

"Oh no sir, you haven't caused me any trouble at all,” said Dice, quick to reply and also to make a good impression on the Ensign. He looked to the extended hand hesitantly for a moment, not accustomed to shaking hands with superior officers as a form of introduction. However, Dice would not keep Li's hand hanging in the air for too long, taking the man's hand in a firm handshake despite how informal it seemed.

“I'm Seaman Recruit Dice Bando, it is good to meet you sir,” Dice said, a hint of pride evident in his voice as he announced his first title regardless of the fact that “Seaman Recruit” carried little weight in the Marine world. Reaching into his back pocket, the Marine retrieved a folded piece of paper and after returning it to its natural form, placed it on Li's bed.

“I made you a painting sir. I hope you like it.”

Although Dice certainly had the best of intentions, the “painting” in question was yet another one of his “masterpieces” that looked as if a small child drew it. The piece consisted of two crudely drawn stick figures, one with a fedora (Dice) carrying another figure with a scribbles of red on him (Li) over his head. For some reason, a sloppy rainbow arced above the two and a blue dog, or what looked to be a dog, was in the corner. On the top of the picture was scribbled “Get Well Soon.” Yeah, not a very good painting overall. Dice, on the other hand, was convinced that it was awesome.

“Anyway, do you want to get something to eat sir? I'm sure you're hungry. Maybe you can tell me how you ended up like that? If you don't mind, of course,” Dice said, fumbling with his words a bit in an effort to sound as courteous and professional as possible. It seemed Li would have to put up with more frivolity. Assuming Li would most likely be hungry, Dice turned and walked toward a table where the two could talk.

The same Marine officer stood and walked the pair from a distance, continuing to stroke his burly, red beard. He would at least wait until the pair had finished eating until he approached them.

[BEX]

The “picture” would flutter onto the white sheets of the hospital bed and Li’s first reaction would be the stifle the eye popping shock at how rudimentary the drawing had been. For one thing, he had trouble connecting the need for red squiggly lines in a “Get Well Soon” card and upon further examination the attention of the rainbow above the two stick figures was enough to illicit a mysterious arch in his brow. Managing to avert his eyes from the drawing before he could notice any other oddities of the heartfelt gesture he would smile handsomely flashing a row of his perfectly aligned teeth as he would his gratitude to Seaman Recruit Bando,

“Certainly an interesting card” he would comment as he picked up the card gently as if it were the most precious thing in the world, “…you know…no one has ever given me anything like this so by my standards it’s the best thing I’ve ever received

Clearly it would all be blatant flattery, but Shengshun held no qualms about making the impressionable officer feel important for the time being. Once food was mention his stomach would attest to his hunger quickly, in fact before he could even open his mouth in agreement, “My, my it seems I’ve…” his voice would trail in feigned embarrassment as he rose gingerly from his bed; his injuries were still quite fresh.

With Dice heading the way Li would smell the delicious food that filled the cafeteria and his eyes would close in ecstasy as drool slipped from his mouth first in drops then in rivulets, pooling the saliva just enough ahead of him that his next step would find him on his back with soaking spit sending shivers through his body. This had not been an act and it didn’t sit well with him though he would manage to maintain his amiable exterior, “Goodness, it seems I’m still rather clumsy…” he would trail as the other people present would stare out him with agape mouths.

Waving away any help offered to him he would rise to his feet only to find that the hospital gown that he had saw fit to go eat in would now be sticking to his hind parts revealing various….portions of his anatomy with astonishing clearness which would go unnoticed to him for a time. Again the other officers in the room would cast wide eyed glances in the oblivious officer as he would sit down at the table that Dice had chosen for them. Immediately the coldness of the chair would remind him that he wore no underwear since he had been changed, but he had very little options at the moment,

“I’ve gotta…act cool. Why am I giving into this foolishness? Just what the hell is happening to me?” he thought as pellets of sweat shot down his face as he would force an even less impressive smile on his face as he would stare across at Li, “Stay calm…stay calm…why is this chair so cold? My back feels kind of sticky too…” his mind would be racing though he would strengthen his small with a slight incline of his head as he asked politely,

“So…what do you suggest we eat Recruit Bando?”

The urge to sprint back to the room and wrap himself in the unsoiled sheets of the medical facility would take root in his mind and he wondered if he could manage to evade Bando’s watch for a moment in order to retrieve the crucial linens, “Yes…yes…I’m very hungry” he would add awkwardly though no one had answered his question nor had any spoken to him; he was a wreck.

[Terminally Chill]

"Really?!” Dice exclaimed with stars in his eyes upon hearing what Li thought of the overall terrible drawing. Of course the man was flattering Dice, but the recruit took his compliment as absolutely sincere. Having lost his professional exterior for a moment, the aspiring artist quickly composed himself after momentarily giving into just a simple compliment. With an awkward cough, Seaman Recruit Bando turned to walk toward their table. It did not seem Li his usual balance, as he suddenly slipped and toppled over onto the floor. Dice quickly turned to see the injured man put in his charge laying on the ground, taking a few steps forward to aid his comrade. However, Li picked himself from the floor, dismissing any potential help with a wave.

“I'm already doing a pretty terrible job...” the recruit thought to himself, a drop of sweat rolling down the side of his head as he stood still, uncomfortably waiting for Li to sit with him after the embarrassing scene. Although Li's embarrassment would only continue the whole way to the table, Dice was at least thankful they were now seated. Although Li attempted to put on the face of someone completely in order, it was obvious there was something... off about him.

“So…what do you suggest we eat Recruit Bando?"

“Uuuh, don't worry about what we're going to eat, sir. I'll find us something,” Dice said, returning Li's strained smile with one of his own. Both men were obviously uncomfortable in the situation, but each attempted to appear as friendly as they possibly could. Rising from his seat, Dice maintained his smile until turning his back to his superior officer and giving his face muscles a rest.

“He's definitely all over the place...” Dice thought, rubbing the back of his head nervously as he began walking away in search of food.

“Yes…yes…I’m very hungry.”

Dice looked back over his shoulder, raising a quizzical eyebrow at the Ensign and his rather random statement. “Right, of course sir...” Dice said with another charitable smile, walking off to retrieve a couple plates for himself and his new acquaintance. Hopefully the time Dice spent looking for decent food would give Li some time to get his act together...

[BEX]

Turning to glance over his shoulder Dice would stare for a moment before he would be able to mumble “Right, of course sir...” in reply to Li’s rambling though the clearly clouded expression on the recruit’s face would only leave the fumbling Ensign to dwell on his stupidity alone; even the recruit that held him in such high esteem earlier now cast uncertain glances in the increasingly tall man’s direction.

As the navy blue figure of Bando would retreat from the table in search of food Li would clench his teeth enough to hear the crackling in his skull meanwhile his hands would clench into fists so tight that the pressure would leave white splotches against the skin of his knuckles. He was behaving like a dawdling idiot! Pressing an exasperated hand into his forehead he would heave a sigh as follicles of his jet black hair would part slightly to make way for the hand that would already redden the area on his forehead. Gathering his wits about him once more he would wonder about how the others had made out with the dealing of the pirates as he would try to recount what had had remembered of the situation in Peco Town. His memory would only suffice to leave him fragmented images of his own demise at the hand of common place thugs which would cause him to visibly gnash his teeth as shame would quickly overwhelm his rationality.

“First I get caught by some low life thugs and now I’m stumbling about like an idiot…what’s going on here?” he would wonder, but his expression would quickly clear up with a much needed exhalation of breath; his peerless exterior had returned leaving no traces of the lines of worried that had loomed only an instant earlier.

Examining the wounds that would be hidden away professionally by the still soggy bandages Li would quickly come to the conclusion that given that he had bruises meant that he would have been away from the division members for quite some time which meant either they had all been annihilated or they had repelled the pirate attack. Remembering the rash Commander that had remained to challenge the cutlass boy alone would leave him with reasonable doubt as the group’s ability to survive. In which case he would need to begin anew and attempt to revitalize the Shield division through recruitment again, but where could he possibly begin?

“Those clowns…” he would sigh thoughtfully remembering the faces that he had met for the very first time on that day in the docks and then would envision each of them with blood stains marring their interesting faces; it would dawn on him that no emotion came from predicting his comrades to be dead, they just were.

“Even that Captain Cauthon fellow ended up dying I bet…” he would continue to reflect as he would twirl his finger playfully in a notch that would have been created by countless people fiddling with the surface of the polished wood and only his stomach would draw his attention away from the morbid thoughts that furrowed his eyebrows, “Bando should hurry…or perhaps…” he would mutter as a new train of thought quickly presented itself to him.

He would need to examine things more in perspective as he would be shown around this place, but he would know innately that something would present itself; something always did. Eyes as penetrating as a razor would gaze thoughtfully in the direction that the intriguing recruit would have strolled off to; desperate times called for desperate measures and with a crumbling Shield division, it would seem matters would be most desperate.

[Terminally Chill]

(OOC: I was going to have the whole description of the mission be here, but I figured I'd give Li a chance to react before the Commodore continued and made this post way long.)

Dice returned moments later, precariously balancing two bowls of what appeared to be rice, some kind of meat, two steaming cups of coffee, and appropriate silverware in his hands and arms. After a bit of adjusting, the young Marine managed to place the food and drink on the table, sliding the bowl and cup toward Li. Sitting down and pulling in his chair, Dice gave Li a smile and picked up his fork.

“Sorry that I couldn't get more food, sir... seems like rations are a bit short around here. I'm not even sure what type of meat that is. But they do have plenty of coffee at least,” the recruit said cheerfully before picking up his cup and taking a drink of the hot beverage. Turning his attention to the food, Dice took a spoonful of the rice and mystery meat and chewed it carefully, a thoughtful look on his face. As soon as he swallowed, he casually pointed his spoon toward the injured Marine who had been placed in his care.

“So, if you don't mind me asking sir, how exactly did you end up on Amino Island in that shape? I'm sure you're hungry, so you don't have to say much ri–”

The presence of another man at the table caused Dice to cut his sentence short. A rather tall man and broad shouldered man stood between the two, hands behind his back and dressed in a suit with the usual white Marine coat draped over his shoulders. Judging by his attire, he was an officer of high rank within the Marines. He stroked his thick red beard, looking at the two with eyes shaded by the standard white cap with “MARINE” printed on the front. Recognizing his high status, Dice suddenly bolted from his chair, the table and dishes rocking bath and forth as he clumsily stood to attention. Before Dice could salute, the tall man held out his hands.

“At ease, Seaman Recruit Bando,” said the red-beared man, giving a bit of a chuckle at the eagerness of the recruit. “And I wouldn't try standing with those injuries, Ensign Shengshun,” the officer said, smiling warmly at Li. “Please, continue eating.” With the attention of both Marines now captured, the Marine officer began speaking once more while Dice took his advice and continued eating.

“It is good to see the Captain introduced you two. It will make this easier. I do apologize for interrupting you during a meal, but I have certain business to discuss with the two of you. To begin, my name is Commodore Greenbeard, and I have come from Marine Headquarters in order to make sure a certain matter is taken care of.”

When the Commodore mentioned his name, Dice's eyes widened and he nearly choked on his food, coughing a few times before he forced the food down and looked to the man's beard.

“Isn't his beard red?! Why the hell is his name Greenbeard?!” [/i]thought Dice, eyes still wide and a bead of sweat rolling down the side of his head. As a connoisseur of colors, the unfitting name the Commodore had been given baffled the young Marine. Of course, he would not vocalize his frustration with the far superior officer's name and so Dice continued eating and listening attentively.

“The few Marines that are here are spread much too thin attempting to keep the crime in Serine City under control. That is why I am here, and more importantly, that is why I am talking to the both of you. Ensign Shenshung...” Commodore Greenbeard turned his attention to the injured lawman.

“I know that you are a part of The Shield Division, an impressive group of Marines indeed. I am not sure how long you have been... separated from them, but I can assure you they are all well after the incident at Peco's Town. But more to the point, your membership in The Shield shows me that you are an exceptional Marine. That is why I was pleasantly surprised when you arrived here on Amino Island. I suppose I should get to the point though, shouldn't I?” the commodore said with a smile, chuckling once more as he reached into his suit, pulling out a piece of paper. Laying down the paper flat on the table, it was revealed to be a wanted poster.

WANTED
DEAD OR ALIVE
CAPTAIN BLACKEYE
£8,000,000

Above the text of “DEAD OR ALIVE” was a picture of a man who looked to be in his early thirties with a head of dusky gray hair, dark stubble covering his face, and a blackened and swollen eye. A wreath of smoke encircled the rough looking man, trailing back to the lit end of his crooked cigarette. Dice looked eagerly at the poster, studying it closely as he intently studied the face of the ruffian. Commodore Greenbeard tapped a single thick digit on the finger, keeping his attention on Ensign Shengshun.

“This nuisance of a man, Captain Blackeye, captain of the Blackeye Pirates crew, is the reason I have been sent here. He is the reason I have come to you two.”

[BEX]

Two steaming bowls of…well what could be called “food” in some places would now sit between the two respectable men, but by now Li would have recovered his calculative suavity. It would be evidenced by the sudden depth that would now exist in his eyes; his face would now hold evenness, a calmness that infected the rest of his being right down to the manner that he sat in the chair even with his injuries. Dice would sit down flashing an admirable smile in the injured officer’s direction, but a creeping suspicion would give Li the impression that the impressionable marine was still a bit unnerved by his clumsiness earlier.

“Sorry that I couldn't get more food, sir... seems like rations are a bit short around here. I'm not even sure what type of meat that is. But they do have plenty of coffee at least” the recruit would offer as solace, but Li would quickly wave away the statement instead expressing his happiness at having any food to eat,

“Thank you, Recruit Bando” he would being between the inhumanly quick shovels of food that would be rocketed into his mouth; a feat worthy of elite officers indeed, “…this will make a good snack after going so long without eating you know” he would smile a few short seconds later shoving his empty bowl forward.

Realizing that his appetite may have posed a bit of an issue he would smile amiably though the hair on the back of his neck began to itch with the sudden approach of another individual though Li would still his movements behaving as if he had not already felt the presence behind him. It would seem as if Bando had not picked up on the officer’s presence less quickly than Li for he would begin stating a question in earnest attempting at making conversation while he ate. It wouldn’t be until he was halfway through his sentence that the lower ranking officer would pause though whether in realization that Li’s bowl was empty or tall man that would quickly draw both men’s attention as his rank would only undermined by his humble demeanor. Bando would waste little time in paying his respects saluting the man hastily and would nearly knock down the contents of the table,

“At ease, Seaman Recruit Bando,” the man would chuckle halting the zealous recruit’s salute before quickly adding, “And I wouldn't try standing with those injuries, Ensign Shengshun”

Li’s only reaction would be the brief tight lipped smile that would more than indicate his feelings toward the man at the moment; he’d had no intention of saluting anyone at the moment. Rather than voicing his opinion he would patiently endure the revealed “Commodore’s” spiel regarding his known status of the Shield division and he would even give the impression of being informed of the division’s well being given the circumstances. Rather than being daunted by the overwhelming situation he would find himself in, what, with being given the order to take down a pirate whose bounty was higher than the last pirate group he’d faced, Li would remain blank faced. His handsome features were hard planes of well constructed flesh and bone with his eyes being the only indication that he registered anything that the man had said; though what they indicated would be a mystery. For a moment he would say nothing as the Commodore explained that this ‘Blackeye’ would be the reason that he had come to the two men sitting at the table and he would reach out comfortably to take a long sip of the coffee; it wasn’t strong enough, but he wouldn’t comment on it.

“I see…Commodore…” he would begin enigmatically as he set the cup down his eyes would glitter with a willful light as he would match the ranked officer’s gaze, “You mean to send a newly recruited marine officer and a recently injured Ensign to take down an 8 million beri bounty head that the entire force of Amino has struggled with?” he would ask with the utmost respect though the meaning behind his question would be clear.

A few officers that would be drifting near where the group was talking would cough surprisingly at the candor with which Li spoke, but he would pay them no mind as he finished his statement with no intention of redeeming himself for what might be found as hubris behavior, “Certainly you have a strategy or at least top notch equipment to offer us…and I have a request as well if I may” he would press boldly; now was not the time to be shy.

[Terminally Chill]

The Commodore gave another heartfelt chuckle at Li's reaction to the task, his face full of red whiskers and barrel-shaped chest shaking along with the laugh. Taking a moment to compose himself after the bout of laughter, Greenbeard joined his hand, returning them to their previous position behind his back.

“How wonderful! Sharp in wit, and also in tongue. Well, Ensign, I am sure I can accommodate your request, but I would prefer to finish the full scope of what I have to say. First, I believe you have jumped too a hasty conclusion about the state of Amino Island and how Captain Blackeye fits into the equation. This is understandable as you have been out of touch with civilization for a reasonable amount of time. I will attempt to paint you an accurate picture.”

“Painting puns are my thing...” Dice mentally grumbled, continuing to eat his food in a less ravenous manner than his new acquaintance. He continued to listen to Greenbeard attentively though, as what the burly commodore was saying applied just as much to him as it did to Li.

“Amino Island is not a place where Marines are commonly seen. As you can see, this is hardly what you could call a full-fledged Marine base. As I mentioned, the force here is much too occupied attempting to combat the crime in the neighboring Serine City to deal with this task. The law enforcement here is poorly trained and hardly have any interest in battling a pirate that does not directly effect them at the moment.” The high ranking officer took a moment to allow his words to sink in, as he was surely giving the two Marines a lot of information to handle at the moment. Li could not have been happy at the moment... talk about frivolity.

“So to say Amino has much of a “force” at all well... that would simply be a stretch. Now, onto the next point. Blackeye has only recently come to Amino Island, holding up in Serine City. With that city being a hotbed for criminal activity, it has been difficult even finding him, much less confronting him with our limited resources. But I digress. Blackeye has become a nuisance because of the destruction he and his “crew” of brigands have caused in the North Blue recently. While he started off as a miscreant with little noteworthy status, he quickly gained a following and began pillaging and just generally making life miserable for people in the North Blue. His rise has been truly meteoric. I will be frank with the both of you. The Marines are not always exactly...” the commodore took a moment, his expression, or what could be seen of his expression beneath his massive red beard, turned to a more thoughtful one as he chose his next words carefully.

“...Quick, I suppose, to respond to new threats such as this one. Regardless, that is why I am here. I am here to remedy whatever... complacency may have taken place on our behalf.”

“Why did he have to think so long about using the word quick?!”

Commodore Greenbeard was surely giving being long-winded, but by some standards, the mission did seem unreasonable. He was simply trying to give the Dice and Li a look at the situation from his own perspective. For the two to have their doubts was only natural, but those doubts would ultimately have to be set aside.

“I understand that asking you two to take on a man such as this, under your current circumstances, may appear be a lot to ask. However, desperate times call for desperate measures. Our resources are few here, but stopping Blackeye now may be crucial. Although his bounty and threat level may not seem extraordinary, there is no telling how powerful he may become. It would be unfortunate for a monster to be born out of your own reluctance to serve the Marines. And Ensign Shengshun, I was hoping that injuries inflicted by common thugs would not be too much a problem for you. Truth be told, you are perhaps the most qualified Marine here to handle this mission. I just figured after the rather...” the commodore once again took time in order to put his point in as delicate words as possible.

“...Embarrassing incident that befell you at Peco's town and led to your current situation, you may have wanted to get on with your career as an exceptional Marine as soon as possible.”

“He said the first thing that came to his head again!”

“And as far as Seaman Recruit Bando, well, the Captain did place you in his charge. While I do outrank the Captain, I feel as though it is logical for a man you are already somewhat acquainted with to accompany you on this mission. A greenhorn could always use field experience, right?” the commodore asked, giving a chuckle at his own pun while he talked about Dice as if the man was not sitting right in front of him.

“Redhorn maybe...”

“I have already arranged for two men to accompany you, but it is unfortunately all this outpost can spare. So, with all of the details out of the way...” Greenbeard put both of his massive hands on the table, lowering his shoulders down so that he was at eye level with the two.

“This may seem somewhat unfair or unreasonable to ask of the both of you, but you are enlisted in the Marines,” the hulking officer said, his voice suddenly becoming hushed but much more intense than before. “Sacrifices must sometimes be made in order to uphold Justice. Do you not agree, Ensign Shengshun?” questioned Greenbeard, lowering his head so that a single, piercing eye, could be seen gleaming under the brim of his hat. If Li looked close enough, he could see that Greenbeard's other eye was covered by an eye patch. Perhaps the man understood sacrifice all too well.

Dice now remained silent, feeling the very presence of Commodore Greenbeard bearing down on him and stifling any words that he may have wanted to say. The tension in the room was almost smothering the poor Seaman Recruit. Luckily, just as swiftly as the tension had been brought, it was broken. The Commodore returned to his upright position, his demeanor turning to the warm and pleasant persona he had greeted the two Marines with.

“Now, about that request, Ensign Shengshun?”

[BEX]

“Sacrifices must sometimes be made in order to uphold Justice. Do you not agree, Ensign Shengshun?” the Commodore would ask while gazing at the flippant officer that would hold the man’s gaze without the slightest falter.

Although his handsome face would remain rigid in those unreadable hard lines and his eyes would seem as peerless as two sturdy pelts of black stone, Li would feel a quiet anger roiling his innards as he would hold the coffee up delicately in his thumb and forefinger. The tension would hang in the air visibly and Dice remained quiet as the lashing continued, but Li’s thoughts at that moment would spirit him away to the screaming image of his sister with filthy men carrying her off into darkness. He would envision himself as the helpless young beggar who had only turned his back on the girl for a moment and had not been able to fight the grown men who’d kicked him for long period of time while the shrill screams of his sister pleaded with them to stop. The taste of salty blood mixed with dirt seemed so vivid that the coffee swill that he had been drinking became distasteful for moment though his silence would persist a slight tick of his face would be the only indication of the ire that had been aroused; why would this man understand any of his sacrifice?

“Now, about that request, Ensign Shengshun?” Greenbeard would warmly ask though, Li would no longer acknowledge him as his superior at least mentally; the man had taken things too far for the smooth faced young man with the edgy gaze to be placated that easily .

Taking his time to set the coffee mug softly against the table he would avert his eyes to the mug willing them to stay there for he would not convey any emotion the next time he met the man’s eyes, he wouldn’t let this meaningless person rile him up like this. All this talk of justice meant nothing to him after all. To them justice was simply a banner to stand behind, a concept that they embellished when they saw fit and downplayed when it would best serve their interests; all government dogs were the same. That’s why he would change them from the inside out and get his revenge at the same time. When the moment passed he would lean forward with an elbow propped onto the table as he drew himself closer to the Commodore; the stone had dissipated and his eyes only held the empty handsome sheen of angelic creation,

“My request is that Recruit Bando upon completion of this mission is released from this base and placed in the Shield Division with me” he would boldly state just as the Captain would be rounding the corner and clearly the statement had its effect upon the man for a slight frown now would appear though he would continue on, not missing a step, “…surely that isn’t too much to ask? After all…” he would smile brightly in Bando’s direction; the man hadn’t done anything wrong to be caught in this game of wits, “…a lowly recruit shouldn’t be missed around this ‘ill-equipped’ base, correct?” he would suggest.

Looking at the man’s face again, so sure, so confident would fill him with the desire to embed his fist into the mans’ skull and the mental image would prove to be quite satisfactory making his grin widen all the more mischievously. Errant tassels of hair would fall over his face just enough to shelter one of his eyes, coincidentally the antithesis of Greenbeard’s eye patch making it seem as if the men were opposites yet equal rather than men of different rank. Despite his misgivings for now he would follow the Marines’ sense of justice for it could only be perceived as right to follow the law, but the question came when the law proved to be corrupt: would he still follow it then?

[Terminally Chill]

“My request is that Recruit Bando upon completion of this mission is released from this base and placed in the Shield Division with me.”

Dice's eyes widened at hearing the words, almost choking on the bowl of rice he had just polished off. What could the Shield Division possibly want him with?! Even Li said it: the aspiring artist was merely a lowly recruit amid a sea of Marines who possessed much more talent than him.

“Really?!” the seaman recruit blurted out for the second time in response to something the Ensign had said, the words barely finding their way out of his throat as the young Marine choked down the last of his food. Once again he had lost the professional exterior he worked so diligently to present, almost giving into his own amazement. Composing himself once more, Dice returned to quietly sipping on his coffee. The hot beverage was now being used to cover up the excitement that was welling up in Dice's chest in response to just the thought of working beside Ensign Li.

Greenbeard remained in his usual stance, his warm and inviting expression showing no signs of waning as he looked into the eyes of the man known as the “White Reaper.” A small chuckle found its way through the commodore's thick beard, the laugh perhaps not as great in volume as hos previous booming laughter but just as heartfelt. Never the less, Greenbeard was amused.

“Well that certainly is an interesting request, Ensign,” the commodore said after his laughter had ceased. The hulking man turned to Dice for a moment, flashing the young seaman recruit a smile in a similar manner to Li, before turning his attention back to the injured ensign.

“I suppose the least I can do is fulfill this request. Judging by Seaman Recruit Bando's reaction earlier he seems to be... willing to join, to say the least. I am sure the Captain can make the necessary preparations after the mission is complete,” Greenbeard said, looking toward the Captain who had introduced Dice and Li in the first place. The captain, although not enthused about losing a pair of hands at the base, gave the commodore a solemn nod. Behind the commodore, a voice spoke out.

“Commodore Purpleman Greenbeard! A call for you on the Den Den Mushi has come from Headquarters, sir!”

At this point, Dice could not help but spit a mouthful of coffee onto the floor, his process of swallowing the liquid interrupted by what the random Marine had said.

“HIS FIRST NAME WAS PURPLEMAN?!” the Marine thought, his mental scream echoing to all corners of his mind as he watched the commodore with bulging eyes and a bead of sweat rolling down the side of his head.

“Ah, well, that should be Headquarters checking in on my progress. Our business is done here men, and I will be returning to my ship after taking this call. I will most likely remain there until you return... this base is rather cramped. I do wish you both good luck on this mission. We believe Blackeye will be remaining in Amino Island for at least three more days, so you may take time to rest if you wish. The Captain will give you further information when you deem it fit to depart. Good day, men.”

And with that, the tall man with the red beard turned his back to the two Marines. The symbol of “Justice” emblazoned on his coat immediately became visible, the end of the cloak fluttering and flowing as the man walked away. Dice had clumsily stood once again to salute his superior, despite how ridiculous the commodore's name had turned out to be. The young Marine did not even want to know what Greenbeard's middle name was. Just then, Greenbeard stopped for a moment after only taking a couple steps.

“Oh and by the way – Recruit Bando, Ensign Shengshun – I do hope you are successful on this mission in a timely manner. After all, the sooner Blackeye is taken care of, the sooner I can get back to Headquarters.”

After giving his last words, Commodore Greenbeard gave out a loud laugh before continuing his path toward the Den Den Mushi in the other room. The commodore was testing both of these men, testing Dice Bando's inexperience and Li Shengshun's skill after his folly in Peco's Town. This mission would be their trail by fire. The man's tall figure vanished into the other room, the door slamming behind him.

Dice had returned to his seat, but was now gazing at Li with starry eyes. The young Marine was unable to contain all of his excitement, as part of it was now seeping through. While Li had obvious issues with the mission and Greenbeard, Dice was enthralled. After all, he was new recruit and in love with the idea of Justice.

“I never imagined I would be sent on such an important mission, and especially not with someone like you, sir!” Dice said, his voice trembling with anticipation. “When do you want to head out? I know you're injured, but I want to leave as soon as possible, sir! And did you really mean what you said about me joining the Shield division?!” the starry-eyed recruit said, the questions spilling from his mouth with little resistance.

[BEX]

Li’s silence would persist as the overconfident ranking officer acquiesced to his request, but even with his keen ability to spot weakness in another’s persona he would not be able to perceive anything from Greenbeard except for the overwhelming sense that the man hadn’t enjoyed his badgering. The pale ergonomic lights of the base would reflect dimly in the dark pools of the Ensign’s eyes as the meaningless prattling continued. A few times his eyes would be drawn from the Commodore to Bando, the excitable recruit who had managed to draw his interests despite being…a bit too enthusiastic in some instances; Li could only hope that he wouldn’t end up like the other members of Shield. He didn’t doubt what Greenbeard had said, but still he had a slight inkling that things had not gone as peachy as the man would have led him to believe. Finally Greenbeard having said his fill would announce his departure, but in what could only be perceived as mockery he would call over his shoulder with a daring smile just past the raised shoulders of his “Justice” coat to the pair still seated at the table,

“Oh and by the way – Recruit Bando, Ensign Shengshun – I do hope you are successful on this mission in a timely manner. After all, the sooner Blackeye is taken care of, the sooner I can get back to Headquarters!”

Blinking apathetically Li would gently release his tension with a gentle squeeze of the ceramic mug in his hands; it seemed that HQ was really filled with nothing more than pompous men with nothing more than their own hubris keeping them calm in the face of the overwhelming tide of the Pirate Era. Even the conscious attempt on his part to keep his face devoid of emotion would become taxing as he would decide to divert his attention to something other than the haughty glowering of the Commodore. Gently placing his cup on the table he would listen to the small clink as the two surfaces met producing a dulcet sound that he could listen to forever, but Bando would quickly toss aside his strained professionalism bombarding him with questions,

“I never imagined I would be sent on such an important mission, and especially not with someone like you, sir!” the recruit gushed and for all the coldness he would have clouding his expression he couldn’t help smiling at the bedazzled young man across from him, “When do you want to head out? I know you're injured, but I want to leave as soon as possible, sir! And did you really mean what you said about me joining the Shield division?!” came the excited interrogation to which Li would calmly stand up with the even tempered smile on his face.

Though his smile was in no way threatening there would be certain firmness that expressed that he was merely tolerating the admiration of an officer, but how long would he continue to abide with such behavior from a recruit? That would remain to be seen…

“My, my you certainly are a handful, Bando-san” he would answer with a disarming smile, but he would feel the stares of many that moved in the general vicinity of the pair and he understood why those eyes were so accusing; it was always within the right of a commanding officer to conscript a recruit from another part of the Blue than he was in, but it was never meant with happiness or kindness.

Needless to say it was a bold gesture on his part and from now on he would feel the eyes following him wherever he went which was fine as long as no one decided to cause any trouble. Scratching at his scalp as if it were greasy he would widen his grin even further while adopting a soothing tone that gave the impression that the two men had been comrades for years, “…regardless of your abundant energy, I’m still a bit hungry, but more importantly I’ll need more rest and good clothing before I go anywhere” he would remind Bando; how quickly people seemed to forget things in the Navy,

“First thing tomorrow, I think would be the best time to start” he would offer as a consolation for not being prepared to begin their mission straightaway; he wasn’t as eager as Dice by a long shot especially with the Navy support as thin as Greenbeard had made it out to be, “…truthfully we would be better served scrawling out whatever information we have on this ‘Blackeye’ and his recent activities in Serine City, but…” he would shrug his shoulders while coupling the gesture with a good-natured smile, “…that can wait, right?”

Wheeling delicately on the ball of his foot on the smooth, tile floor he would start on his way back towards the room though he would cast a respectful wave and nod towards the lower ranking officer before he would start down the hallway once more. With his back now to Bando his expression would darken with many thoughts as he considered why someone of such high status would choose them to undergo a mission like this, but worse still he would begin to wonder just who this ‘Blackeye’ was. Images of his last get-together with wanted pirates would leave him tugging at his bandages with a deep set frown on his face. Part of him would wonder just how much training Bando had received in his time here and doubt would find its way into his thoughts, though the officer seemed nice enough; Li could not foresee him being much help against a bounty head, not in his current state anyway. The bandages would glow with incessant inflammation of some sort, but he knew better than to ask for help now and besides a little discomfort would not kill him,

“Yes, but playing hero with a rookie against a bounty head will…” he would think morbidly as the squelching of his bare feet against the smooth floor would resound through the small area for a few moments before fading into silence; things were going to be even more complicated than he’d thought.

[Terminally Chill]

(OOC: Wasn't really feeling this post. You can just do like a timeskip into the morning if you want with your next post.)

Although Li was handling Dice's rather immature, but good-intentioned, enthusiasm about the mission with understanding and patience, even the seaman recruit he was wearing on the higher officer's nerves. Li was still recovering from his injuries and was surely tired, possibly too tired to deal with the starry-eyed recruit and his bombardment of questions. It was perfectly understandable. Dice took his own cup of coffee from the table, taking a sip of it as he attempted to regain his composure. In his rush to start the mission, the budding artist had overlooked many of the logical preparations Li was now mentioning. Dice nodded as the ensign proposed that they start the mission tomorrow, realizing he had been too hasty in suggesting to start the pursuit of Blackeye immediately. After all, Greenbeard was giving them the opportunity to rest before the mission, might as well take it. Rising from his chair at the same time Li decided to, Dice gave Li a courteous smile.

“Of course, Ensign Shengshun.” the young Marine replied. “I'll be ready to start first thing tomorrow. I hope you get some rest, sir,” Dice said, giving his injured comrade a salute as Li turned to return to his room from before. Hand resting on the hilt of his katana, Dice looked to the double doors that led out to the quieter city of Ana Nine.

“Well, I guess I should continue my patrol. With all of that excitement, I didn't even get to finish.”

Dice was always eager to perform whatever tasks he could for the Marines, so despite the fact that he had been away from the patrol for hours, the young Marine felt his task was not yet complete. After all, the day was not yet finished! Dice quietly walked toward the door, giving the onlooking Captain a respectful nod before pushing through the exit.

Like Li, Seaman Recruit Bando's thoughts were entirely focused on the mission they would be undertaking together. However, Dice's thoughts were much more optimistic, even if they were due to pure naivety.