[Arc][Kano Arc][Part 2] Delicious Debut - Snack-Fu Hustle

Sat Aug 01, 2020 3:53 pm

Current Quest:

OOC: (-eh is a cough; -ee is a weeze)

Nothing felt quite as invigorating as eviscerating enemies endlessly. Brood knew that the authorities were rapidly closing in on his location, having caused all of that destruction in the isle center, and it was probably for the best if he made his time on the island brief. However, this wasn't his goal. He knew of a man that had trained one of his victims in the past that was rumored to reside somewhere within Kano Country and it was his goal to make sure that he could figure out just where this martial arts master resided so that he could undergo training for himself.

Brood usually didn't like listening to other people, but he knew that the fastest route to gain the strength that he'd have had if he didn't go into self-imposed exile was to seek out this man. Especially since Brood wanted to make sure he wasn't going to ever have to go through the embarrassing situation that he went through all that time ago... back, when he fought the rapist dino-bitch. Brood didn't let the negative thoughts set into his head, however. He kept himself focused and completely devoid of any doubt that plagued him before his woman sought him out.

Thinking about Seraphina was more than enough to make the man kick into high gear. He... hoped that she was willing to be by his side forever, but he wasn't the sentimental type. He kept those thoughts to himself and he found himself smiling softly as he recalled the look on her face when he saw her again. It was enough to force the man to intensify the grip that he had currently, until a clear snapping sound could be heard. Brood had held a man by the throat, crushing it with minimal effort in his trance. "Ee-goddammit. Not again-eh."

Brood tossed the martial artist to the side as though he was nothing more than a wad of paper and then refocused on the large building in front of him. Brood moved forward with his hands in his pockets, whistling all the while. At this point he was intruding into the Dojo, not even bothering to bow towards the holy figure that was on display towards the back of the Dojo itself. Several students found themselves retreating out of the room and into the courtyard, fumbling over each other as they took of defensive hand to hand stances. Breathing heavily all the while.

Brood stepped out after them, noting the sixty or so students that all seemed to be prompted by the ten that had retreated outside. All of the students began to spread out and the highest ranked among them stepped forward ahead of all of his brethren. Speaking with a voice that attempted to assume authority, he spoke out with hostility in his voice. "You are trespassing in a place you're not meant to be. Vacate the premises right this instance or else-." It happened in a flash, but the man was cut off by the massive hole in his face.

Falling over, the pool of blood gathering where his head now laid seemed to spread out towards the other students. Each one having their face showcase the panic that was spreading to each member collectively. "Ee-" He rose his hand upwards, making a gesture for each of the students to rush him all once, yet none of them bothered to make a move towards him. Realizing their hesitency, he dropped his hand and shook his head from left to right. "Get your master, now-eh." Brood spoke with a calmness that betrayed his newfound psychosis. Everyone here was going to die.

Just not right now.

{ 611 | 611 | 5000 }

sucré @ gs

Mon Jan 25, 2021 4:40 am

Brood uses AOE[Akuma-Tekina Tōnyō-Byō] on Brood.
Brood uses UT on Bi Gai Academy.

Bi Gai Academy uses MT on Brood.
Bi Gai Academy uses LT on Brood.
Bi Gai Academy uses LT on Brood.
Bi Gai Academy uses UT on Brood.

COMBAT TRACKERS:

Mon Jan 25, 2021 4:40 am

The member 'Brood' has done the following action : Dice Roll

#1 'Reflex Check' : 2

--------------------------------

#2 'Reflex Check' : 3, 8, 18, 11

Mon Jan 25, 2021 4:55 am

Brood uses HT[Kashi Ōga] on Brood.
Brood uses LT[Tōnyō-byō: Daiichidankai] on Brood.
Brood uses UT on Bi Gai Academy.

Bi Gai Academy uses MT on Brood.
Bi Gai Academy uses LT on Brood.
Bi Gai Academy uses LT on Brood.
Bi Gai Academy uses UT on Brood.

COMBAT TRACKERS:

Mon Jan 25, 2021 4:55 am

The member 'Brood' has done the following action : Dice Roll

#1 'Reflex Check' : 10, 6

--------------------------------

#2 'Reflex Check' : 1, 20, 17, 2

Mon Jan 25, 2021 5:31 am

Brood uses MT[Satōkibi no Haritsuke] on Brood.
Brood uses LT[Seki Seki] on Brood.
Brood uses LT[Jittabagu Namekuji] on Brood.
Brood uses UT on Bi Gai Academy.

Bi Gai Academy uses HT on Brood.
Bi Gai Academy uses LT on Brood.
Bi Gai Academy uses LT on Brood.
Bi Gai Academy uses UT on Brood.

COMBAT TRACKERS:

Mon Jan 25, 2021 5:31 am

The member 'Brood' has done the following action : Dice Roll

#1 'Reflex Check' : 15, 4, 7, 10

--------------------------------

#2 'Reflex Check' : 14, 15, 1, 16

Mon Jan 25, 2021 5:55 am

Brood uses HT[Shotō Sarubo MKII] on Brood.
Brood uses LT[To~urubinado Shiketsu-tai] on Brood.
Brood uses UT on Bi Gai Academy.

Bi Gai Academy uses MT on Brood.
Bi Gai Academy uses LT on Brood.
Bi Gai Academy uses LT on Brood.
Bi Gai Academy uses UT on Brood.

COMBAT TRACKERS:

Mon Jan 25, 2021 5:55 am

The member 'Brood' has done the following action : Dice Roll

#1 'Reflex Check' : 6, 19, 5

--------------------------------

#2 'Reflex Check' : 15, 2, 3, 9

Mon Jan 25, 2021 7:15 am

Brood uses HT[Tōnyō-byō: Dai 4 dankai] on Brood.
Brood uses LT[Mōgan no Tōmitsu] on Brood.
Brood uses UT on Bi Gai Academy.

Bi Gai Academy uses MT on Brood.
Bi Gai Academy uses LT on Brood.
Bi Gai Academy uses LT on Brood.
Bi Gai Academy uses UT on Brood.

COMBAT TRACKERS:

Mon Jan 25, 2021 7:15 am

The member 'Brood' has done the following action : Dice Roll

#1 'Reflex Check' : 16, 9, 10

--------------------------------

#2 'Reflex Check' : 7, 9, 12, 13

Thu Feb 25, 2021 7:00 pm

OOC: (-eh is a cough; -ee is a weeze)

Bai Gai found himself in the town square, showing of his beautiful unblemished face and his toned muscular arms to any of the tourists whom found themselves unfortunate enough to be in the narcissist's way. He had made his rounds, advertising his school so that he could gain a bit more money to fund the vacation that he wished to take away from this, as he put it, god-forsaken hellhole.

He had spent the last few days pawning off the training of his students to those who had been there the longest under his instruction. Though he was rather competent when it came to his own martial art skills, he had never truly learned how to be a good educator. At most, he showcased to his students how to fight well enough to beat up your average joe.

But any monster with experience would be an entirely different ballgame.

Bai Gai didn't have a care in the world today, that was at least until one of his students charged him in a panic. Frantically pointing towards the direction of the school. "Sifu, there is a man claiming that he wishes to challenge you. He defeated Sihing Lo Mang in-."

Before the grunt could finish speaking, Bai Gai rose his hand up and silenced his disciple. Looking towards the crowd that he was entertaining, he bowed his head and apologized to them profusely. "Take me there, young brah. We can't let this broski harsh our vibes."

Brood gazed across the room and noticed that none of his potential victims had moved in any way shape or form. Was this the hidden power that he had heard rumors of, was this the projection of his pace manifested without hindrance? He wasn't exactly sure what their deal was... but he had expected a bit more from the so-called disciples of "Pressure Point Kenpo", but he hadn't seen anyone here worthy of the style's legacy.

Perhaps if they had all trained under the original master and not just some upstart hot-shot they'd have faired better.

Brood took this brief pause in the carnage to remove his shirt and toss it to the ground. Showcasing his muscular frame to the students before lowering himself down to the tile floor beneath his feet. Crossing his legs and placing the palms of his hand on top of his knees. He lowered his head, closing his eyes as he found himself lost in contemplation.

Meditation was supposed to be helpful in times like this, right?

He allowed for his Haki to flourish out from his body, creating a murderous aura that felt suffocating to any who made the mistake of walking within his personal space. His territory.

There wasn't a great swath of knowledge at Brood's disposal to aid him in his quest to become stronger. He usually relied on himself to overcome any situation that came his way... but ever since he step foot into the Grand Line, victory had been far out of his grasp. That sense of accomplishment that defined most Supernova had been entirely lost on Brood... and at times he wondered why anyone would consider him worthy of the title.

Even now, he had to retreat into what he considered a weaker blue, just to find someone who could help him overcome the mental road blocks that had formed in him due to his ceaseless dance with failure.

One would have assumed that he was given the chance to pull himself out of his slump by some angelic mentor who descended from the heavens. But that wasn't the case. Nothing in Broods life ever proved to be easy. Especially ever since he came back to the Blues. Perhaps he should have let sleeping dogs lie, but Brood had always been a stubborn Pirate.

Especially when it came to proving that he was an actual threat in the world.

(OOC: Sifu means Teacher, Sihing means big brother.)

{ 645 | 1,256 | 5000 }

sucré @ gs

Thu Feb 25, 2021 11:45 pm

OOC: (-eh is a cough; -ee is a weeze)

Bai Gai entered the Dojo, his eyes immediately falling onto the corpse of many of his students. He gulped hard... feeling a great deal of anxiety wash over him due to the types of injuries that he could make out. Whatever was here had to be some sort of monster... but he couldn't show fear in front of his students. One of which was just mere feet in front of him. As that student looked back at him, he forced out a smile and made a waving motion with his hand.

"Lets goski. We don't want to keep our guest waiting."

Bai took a moment to remember his training and to remember how he was one of the few students of Long Pi who had never suffered defeat outside of his own master's hands. It was enough to instill within himself a sense of confidence that was unshakable, unflappable and undeniably strong. So long as he didn't lose concentration, no one could withstand his 'Both Ways' style of pressure point kenpo.

All he had to do was subject himself to his confidence... to give into his ambitious nature.

Such feelings flooded into him quickly. Causing Bai gai to look at his nails with disinterest. Adopting a fairly haughty aura around himself.

An elongated yawn escaped his lungs as he approached Brood. He took his time in looking over the heavily scarred dark skin Pirate, shaking his head. He'd take his own hair and began to braid it. That way it wasn't in his eyes during the ensuing combat that he could feel looming on the horizon. He approached with a look of superiority plastered all over his face.

It was an act that could fool even himself into believing this was just another hooligan trying to make a name for themselves.

"Brah, you're harshen the mellow and sanctity of this here establishment. I'm gonna have to ask you to split or else it might get gnarly in here." He spoke in a very slow and laid back manner, peering over towards his students with a smile on his face and confidence radiating off his body.

Within a few minutes of silence, Brood's eyes opened slowly. He rose up on his feet with a look of pure agitation on his face. Turning around, he took a moment to look upon the supposed master of this school.

Brood found himself underwhelmed by what he saw.

This... so called Sifu was nothing more than a young punk with a healthy pocketbook. His entire outfit was made out of silk and the chang pao that he wore was lime green in color. His underpants and undershirt where a darker shade of forest green as a compliment as well. Brood could see that the bracelets that were on the man's forearms were studded and that the man had several rings on his fingers of varying value. This outfit didn't seem all that practical for martial arts in Brood's opinion.

Granted, Brood didn't know the first thing about martial arts.

Brood placed both of his arms up into the air, stretching out before resting his hands against the back of his head. Leaning to his left and looking the martial arts prodigy up and down.

There was one thing that Brood noticed about his opponent right off the back. Brood's murderous Aura had not been enough to deter the man from conflict. That could only mean that this man was worthy of being taken seriously. Even if Brood found this whole testing affair to ultimately be a waste of time.

"Ee-I refuse."

It was a simple reply to an otherwise empty sounding threat. Brood didn't truly believe that this former disciple could ever stand to face him in direct combat. Most students of martial arts were far too focused on being bewildered by the strengths of their styles... which often left them vulnerable to the assaults of their enemies. A reality that was going to be tested in length in just a few moments.

Bai was well aware that Brood was not likely to vacate the property peacefully. But he figured that he could at least get out of this situation through his wordplay, opposed to violence.

"Why walk this most unrighteous of paths, broham? One must seek inner peace, ride the big wave of enlightenment." He spoke in confidence as he gestured towards his students. Somehow managing to put them at ease with his candor.

Of course, all of this went over Brood's head.

"Why-eh did you betray-ee your master, Long-ee Pi?." A counter question. One that was meant to challenge the character of this apparently righteous and enlightened shepherd.

{ 775 | 2,031 | 5000 }

sucré @ gs

Fri Feb 26, 2021 3:57 pm

OOC: (-eh is a cough; -ee is a weeze)

Bai Gai felt uneasy with this new arrivals sudden... question. There was something wrong here, something he wasn't putting together. How did this man know of Long Pi and what exactly did he already know about the falling out that the pair suffered not but six years ago. Bai was the premier martial arts instructor on this island ever since he defected from the old geezer. Or so that was what he honestly believed with every fiber of his being.

"Alrigh' broham and cheese, I'll totally answer your question. hit you with an answer most copacetic." The blond practitioner stated with a glint of malice hidden behind his apparently cocky smile.

"Let's just say I learned everything that old codger had to offer, then I branched out on my own. No harmski, no foul." He nodded to himself thoroughly, recognizing the genius in his own words.

While a non-answer, he figured it satisfactory enough to pass as one at the very least.

Much to the pompous youth's surprise, however, Brood didn't seem to move in any way shape or form. Nor did he cease the intense stare that had been focused on Bai Gai since the moment he asked the question.

There was a moment of uncertainty that filled the air... and that panic that set into Bai Gai's students earlier was now starting to creep into himself. He realized that his answer wasn't satisfactory. Or at least that was the implication that he garnered by the candyman's indifference to his response.

Clearing his throat, Bai Gai attempted to give a slightly modified answer this time around. "Uh... essentially. I wanted to go my own way and rely on my own strength. He had nothing more to offer me so I mastered my own style. A style that can be used against the pirates that raid our seas."

Such an admission seeped into the mind of Brood. Who adopted a look of contemplation as he thought about the information given to him. A style of combat that aids against fighting pirates? Intriguing... Brood felt that he'd definitely need to fight this false master now. Especially given the fact that Brood was able to think back on the business idea he had back before his defeat in Las Camp.

Brood was going to be in the business of hunting down pirates.

"Show me then-ee."

Another soundless instance faded and Bai stood there stunned. Not sure how his explanation could have backfired. Then it dawned on him. If this man wanted to fight him, of course he must have known that Bai Gai was the strongest martial artist on the entire island. So bragging about his own martial prowess was only going to cause this brute to want to prove himself even more than before.

Bai totally felt like an idiot now.

"Brodad, if I fought every baddy that came waltzing in here, I'd never have time to train my students. You want to fight? Let's do it at the next sanctioned tournament." He puffed out his chest, throwing out his hand and pointing at himself with his thumb.

"We have one coming next mon-"

"I refuse."

Such a response caused Bai Gai's face to contort into an expression of annoyance and dismay. What was with this idiot? Was he trying to test Bai's patience? Perhaps he needed to be smacked around for a bit so that he could properly understand the difference between their power levels. The only issue was that Bai really hadn't wanted to enter a combat situation with anyone who was willing to murder their opponent. Especially someone as... intimidating as this dark skinned hooligan standing across from him.

"....Fine. I'll give you what you want. Students! Form the ring of contestation."

A collective 'Osu!' could be heard from the students as they spread out and formed a large ring around the center of the training grounds. Bai motioned for Brood to join him in the center of the circle.

Brood obliged, of course, making his way towards the center and standing opposite of his opponent. He'd glare despite his face appearing to be as emotionless as it had been from the very moment that he stepped foot into this Dojo.

"Alright... prepare yourself. " The martial artist stated casually before dropping into a stance, with his left palm exposed and pushed forward. His right hand formed an enclosed fist tucked under his rib.

{ 735 | 2,766 | 5000 }

sucré @ gs

Sat Feb 27, 2021 1:18 am

OOC: (-eh is a cough; -ee is a weeze)

The battle began... and the students that formed this Dojo found themselves in awe of what they had witnessed. Though perhaps being in awe was not the correct description of the look that was plastered on the faces of each of these students. More accurately, horror was the expression of the day. Though one couldn't blame them for the absolute dread they felt in their hearts. For the most terror inducing outcome to the fight had occurred.

Their instructor had died.

"Huh... Eh."

Brood stood where Bai Gai had, having seemingly vanished from his spot and reappearing a meter above the haughty practitioner of what had to be some sort of fake karate nonsense. Brood descended faster than the man could react. With one mighty overhand punch, aided by a full rotation of his body's axis, Brood managed to cave in the head of the overly talkative master of "Both Ways".

Brood looked down at his closed fist, looking at the viscera, blood and brain matter that coated him all the way up to his elbow. Sighing before allowing the drool to run rampant down the side of his face. "Long Pi is not going to accept proof of my victory without evidence. So one of you will come vouch for me, yes? In exchange for your life."

Though shocked by what they witnessed, many of the students started to scatter like roaches when the lights were cut on. Unfortunately, they had nowhere to escape too. For Brood threw up both of his arms and encased each and every one of the exits with hardened sugar. As well as each of the walls. Those who touched the superheated sugar would find themselves burned... and once all the rats realized that they were trapped in this cage. Brood made himself even more clear.

"There-ee, is no-ee, escape-ee. I only need one of you. So eh-fight for your life-eh amongst yourselves." Brood moved towards the front entrance of the building unhindered by his foes.

He knew that each of these little punks were well aware of the situation now.

Somewhere in Kano Country

"Peeerrvavava! I hope the Cap'n goes back ta his old ways soon. Seeing him mope around is a pain in the ass." A large silhouetted figure spoke from a room akin to a tavern, with only a singular dimly lit candle flickering against the otherwise darkened chamber.

This mysterious figure was none other than "Big Dirty" Desmond Horatio Wilkz, bounty 12,000,000.

He could be heard slamming down a mug of something especially frothy, belching aloud as though he had never learned tact or class.

"....His time is nowhere near."

This secondary voice belonged to the enigmatic terroristic serial killer, "Shi no Daihyō" Jackson Makarov, bounty 0. His handiwork never left any traces, so he never garnered a bounty of his own.

He had not been seated, choosing to instead stand in the shadows with only his eyes illuminated by the tiny flame's reflection.

"I heard he had a rough go of it back in Las Camp. Not sure why he'd be down and out, sugah. 'Specially since he lost to one of them big bad Shichibukai. Wasn't like it was some no-name little mister."

Such a classy and feminine voice could only belong to the relatively unknown southern belle, "The Hangwoman" Erudite Graves, bounty also 0. She had yet to make a name for herself as a pirate, since she had always operated under the guise of a textile merchant.

"Heh, true! Boss got humbled by a great white in a well. So what?! He just has ta get his mojo back and then we can all fawk off back ta the Grand Line."

Desmond beat his chest in excitement. Smirking against his mug before woofing down more of the brew.

".....Revenge is not our way. Death, however..."

"Yeah, yeah." Desmond adopted a dismissive waving of his hand. "Don't recite the ancient text ta me ya sociopath, I was there when it was written...wait no I wasn't. I was getting laid! Peeeervavava!"

"Oh honey, you are so incorrigible. Say... why are we even sitting 'round here anyway? Shouldn't we be heading to the North Blue to set up the base?" Her eyebrow perked for a moment, a smile upon her plump lips before she moved her pistol against her temple.

"Ahhh... Apparently, Cap'n got drunk with some dude named Lawn Pie or sumshit. Ole fawk was talkin'bout how he was some sorta big shot back in the day. Cap'n went'n talked to him. Waste-o-time if ya ask me." Desmond shrugged with disinterest. He was more of a punch first and ask questions later kind of guy.

"Bless his heart, I reckon he's got himself a good reason for going to all this trouble." She'd lick her lips before point her pistol out towards one of the blocked off windows of this seemingly abandoned establishment.

"Learnt long ago never ta question Cap'n Broody, peeerrvavava! So long as he doesn't go overboard again, it'll be smooth sailing from here ta Notice."

".....Many will die today, though not by his hand. At least, not directly." Jack made his move towards the table, his face now illuminated by the enflamed wick.

"Jackson, darlin', do you always have these... prophetic visions? Splishlishlish~<3"

Desmond smacked his mug down once more, leaning into the flames and showing off his perfect teeth. "Don't fall for his psychosis newbie. Man is just obsessed with death. But he does have a point. Boss was lookin a little emotionally unstable earlier..."

"Well, I declare that if the creek don't rise, we'll deal with whatever fallout comes from ole' Cappy." Erudite too leaned near the candle, her fishman features on full display as well.

The trio engaged in a brief stint of laughter before each one felt an overbearing feeling of dread shiver down their spines. Though their reactions were not what many in this position would have had. They didn't seem particularly scared. But they did seem... excited.

"Wait- do ya hear that? Ah fawk!" Desmond clenched his much with such a strong grip that the handle completely shattered inside of his grip.

"I sense it big boy. Guess we gotta go give a distraction for the boss until he completes his objective. Best get ready 'til the cows come home."

Erudite was the first to raise up from her seat, heading over to the door with Desmond close behind her.

".....Someone...stronger than captain is here?" Jackson didn't seem to speak with awestruck curiosity... but rather with sadistic glee.

The trio just had to get a glimpse of whomever had just arrived here.

{ 1,103 | 3,134 | 5000 }

sucré @ gs

Fri Apr 14, 2023 8:47 am

OOC: (-eh is a cough; -ee is a weeze)

Brood was a man who rarely smiled, and given the fact that his face looked stern, his expression was emotionless, and he said little to nothing. He was not distracted by the strong presence off in the distance. He was here to recruit allies, he wasn't going to leave until he got what he desired. He had no room on his main crew for any new additions, at least not yet.

But he was more than certain that having a strong martial artist in your corner would go a long way in the grand line.

As the fledgling combatants showcased their desire to live, utilizing both the techniques they trained here as well as their own personal fighting styles from before becoming pupils to Bai Gai, Brood gave little to no feedback whatsoever.

He was impressed however that many of these warriors didn't outright kill each other. It seemed as though their sense of camaraderie built up over years of training together overcame their fear of death. At least that was until the head student threw a kick so hard that it dislodged the jaw of his opponent.

As the others looked on in horror this star student flexed his muscles and called out to his brothers and sisters with a panicked tone.

"Are you all deaf and stupid? He just said he only needs one of us to be alive. Just because you knock somebody out doesn't mean they're going to be spared. This is a pirate, it's as clear as the sky above."

All of the students began to look at each other with grim expressions.

It was clear what had to be done though one of the girls, with a face that had cat-like features crossed her arms underneath her breasts and countered the claim made by the star pupil.

"Mewhaha! Nothing wrong wit’ being a pirate. I’m one myself, you know. But, I'm not killing anybody no, goro-goro. Not my style!”

A mischievous look flashed upon her face all the while. It was clear she was hardly taking this seriously. She hadn’t heard of Brood before, wasn’t really her privy to stay hip on the big names out in the sea. She and her crew drifted from place to place at their own leisure.

“But I also ain’t gonna let ya kill me, goro-goro.”

As she spoke she made an enclosed fist, pushing it outward. Looking at Brood with an intensity in her eye that caught his attention briefly enough for her to make an impression.

“Goro-goro nii!! I’m a former professional boxer! I’m just here to learn some grapplin’ and some throws. I ain’t got time for all this, goro-goro. So I’ll knock ya all out n’ be on my way. Heh.”

With that being said, Brood had no choice but to allow his focus to settle on her. Though it seemed the pupil from earlier had grown stone-faced.

“...Fine, then I’ll take you out first!”

The man leaped at the arrogant woman with focused, murderous intent.

Meanwhile, aboard the Dead Air…

"I don't know man, I'm still not sold on this." Ricky paced back and forth, hands placed on his waist all the while.

He walked about the planks that made up the bow of the vessel, on the raised platform that overlooked the area where the common rabble conjugated. Up here sat the executive members of the crew, and though he paced in frustration, he was not yet alone up here.

"Relax, everything will…hic... work out fine so long as we… hic- keep our heads down. It wasn't too long ago that …HICCUP!... the Boss got his shit rocked."

The voice belonged to none other than Festus Shrine, the only man whose authority on the ship rivaled Ricky’s. He was not the first mate, but he had garnered Brood’s ear more times than he could count.

"I mean I get that but do we really have to hire every two-bit thug right off the street? Like what the hell, why do we have a monkey?"

Ricky spoke of the strange Mink they had recruited moments prior. He was stronger than the typical grunt, but hardly seemed to be worthy of the crew.

"We need expendable bodies for the upcoming operation. And given the fact that this tournament is going on attracting all manner of individuals from the further reaches of the sea, it is in our best interest to do some recruiting now. Especially since we're in the blues and we won't find anyone worthy of joining the crew otherwise."

Academia proclaimed, making sure that he got a day as he sat in his chair, one leg crossed over the other. A piping hot cup of tea in his hand that he sipped through a straw connected to his respirator mask. Molly spoke up as well of course. Seated on the railing that surrounded this upper deck. Legs dangling off the side as she peered at the crew below.

"They all look like a bunch of bozos to me, Cap’n should really let me test them out first. My hammer has been itching to smash into something for a while now."

"We'll get our chance to raise hell …hic... soon enough. For now, we lay low. As you're all aware, we're …hic-... not trying to become Yonkos. And the boss has no desire to be the Pirate King. We just want to be as neutral …HICCUP!!... as possible, baby."

There was a moment of silence before Ricky spoke up once more.

"This seems like a needlessly complicated stepping stone, but I'll do whatever."

He turned his attention towards the know-it-all of the crew, leaning against the railing while he focused in on the crew's living encyclopedia.

"Academia, do you know how we had to stop here though? Like I guess it's a tournament going on but we could catch everybody on their way out. What's the point of being here right now?"

If Academia was smiling, it was nearly impossible to tell.

"Ah, my simple-minded friend. Back when the master was in his younger day, a traveling martial artist took a stop on his home island of Spider Miles. According to the boss, that man taught him how to fight. Apparently, this happened right before Boss-sama formed his first crew."

Molly tilted her head to the side, shocked by the information on offer. Ricky swiftly followed up on his earlier question.

"That's news to me, didn't know that wild man had any formal training. He just swings that giant cleaver around like a maniac."

"Wild is true that Boss’ combat style is unorthodox, it is nevertheless effective."

Festus chimed in whilst raising his gourd up to his lips, drinking down the brew once again.

"This is true. Maybe he feels like… he needs to get in touch with his roots?"

Kano Country, Both Ways Dojo…

The star pupil was a relentless foe it seemed. Anyone that approached his duel with the retired boxer landed the interlopers with a swift strike to a vital organ. Rendering them nothing more than just a name on a slab of rock.

It was a wild style of combat that the man engaged in, precise and to the point.

There had been no clearer indicator that this man had learned the truest form of martial arts that this academy could have taught them. This was more than the showboating Both Ways style. A style that was used by a clown to garner himself fame and fortune. No, this was the power of the all-or-nothing fist. A style of combat that was derived from Brood’s master, Long Pi.

But watching this man fight did not excite Brood in the slightest. Though he fought with efficiency and reckless abandon in equal measure. It wasn’t anything that Brood hadn’t seen before.

To that end, this man seemed to be missing something. A special ingredient that would set him apart from the obviously weaker students that were being thrashed and mangled.

When his eyes gazed over towards the bare-knuckle cat-lady, he was more immersed in her movements. She bobbed, weaved, and even stepped out of the way of incoming strikes with a fluidity that he had not seen. She was no threat, an amateur at best. But she had potential. More importantly, she was unique. She hadn’t thrown a single jab, punch, or hook. Merely using her movements to wear out the overly aggressive opponent.

That was the secret sauce. Her reflexes.

Having all the power in the world didn’t matter if you couldn’t land your shots. If you left yourself exposed to punishment. To that end, this fight was over.

Made clear by the fact that on the very last dodge that the woman made, she stepped out, threw a massive right hand, and caught the student on the jaw sending him wobbling off to the side, crashing on the ground.

The man quickly got up, but he was clearly embarrassed by the exchange.

Brood to his credit could not stifle his coughing fit of a laugh, having honed in on their fight while ignoring the majority of the other miniature bouts that were going on around him. He was going to recruit one of these two. But it just depended on the circumstances.

{ 1,543 | 4,677 | 5000 }

sucré @ gs

Sun Apr 16, 2023 1:45 am

OOC: (-eh is a cough; -ee is a weeze)

Brood had to admit that it was a phenomenal display of physical prowess put on by both of these combatants. Even though the man lacked any creativity in his movements he was still performing at a high level.

And yet, Brood knew how this was going to end.

One pivot to the back foot, an extension of the arm, and the fist finding purchase dead center of the people's face. Breaking his nose on impact and sending the man backward full force.

As the man ragged on the air, being flung up against the wall, it was clear what had occurred.

Haki.

"Lucky-ee girl, you win. You ee-said you're a pirate, right?"

It didn't even seem as though the athletic cat lady even broke a sweat. It was impressive that she was able to deal with a high-level martial artist with relative ease. She was an upcoming powerhouse that much was for certain. But it was going to take more than a strong fist to deal with the monsters outside of these waters.

He thought back to the plan, the goal. They wanted to maintain a network of skilled individuals across a wide spectrum of fields. So that they could lease out those skills to individuals that had the money to afford the service.

It was not quite the same as being a member of, say, the bounty hunting association. He wanted to make a faction that could completely take on any illicit action. Be it capturing targets, assassinations, espionage, or simple guard services. Like the underground world’s version of Cipher Pol. It was a market that he himself wanted to dominate. One that he wanted to create.

It was funny how quickly someone’s ambition could rise through the suggestion of another.

"Look here, you've passed the audition. That being said, we can't have you running off now."

With a slight raise of his eyebrow he unleashed his conqueror's haki, causing the remaining fighters in the room to all collapse to the ground as well as the cat lady. Brood stood up though it was hard to tell if he was satisfied by the look on his face. A face that was unmoving, unflinching, and unemotional.

Standing up, he made his way over towards the unconscious boxer. He would scoop her up carrying her and his left arm by the torso before making his way towards the exit which melted away as he approached the sugar. He seemed to reabsorb it back into his body.

This prize was enough for him.

Elsewhere, Kano Kingdom

Desmond did his best to catch his breath but he was finding it harder and harder to breathe the longer that this ordeal played out. He held his ribs with his right arm and wiped the blood from his mouth with his left hand.

He and the others found themselves here in the middle of a back alley, having followed the strong presence that was racing towards their captain’s location. Originally, they had no intention to engage with the figure. But Desmond in his infinite wisdom had no sense of self preservation. He had to see how his strength measured up to someone truly strong.

Who better than this anomalous figure standing before him.

There was no mistaking that this man before him was not supposed to be here in the blues. But it was not uncommon for powerful figures to move where they liked. It wasn’t too long ago that the crew had fought underneath the banner of a Yonko here in the blues, albeit unsuccessfully.

But this figure wasn’t anywhere near that kind of power. Yet still his presence was threatening. Like some wild beast from the Grand Line had somehow masked its presence here. There was no doubt in his mind who this man was. This was a powerful entity from the former generation, a martial artist of renown and skill.

This man he stared down was Long Pi, former teacher of Brood. A monstrous brute in a worn out shell.

Erudite shook her head as she cradled an unconscious Jackson In her arms. Holding his mangled body against her chest. Even the figure obsessed with death tried to take a shot at the elder warrior. His advanced age likely proved to be the trigger that set off Jackson in the first place. Most vulnerable classifications did.

"Now look at h’what you dun’ gone n’ did, suge. Told yew ta wait for the cap'n."

Her disappointment was as evident as her annoyance. She had not been hit at all, she didn't even try to provoke Long Pi either. Yet here she stood. Watchful, aware, and vigilant. She would protect herself if she had too. But she was smart enough to realize the gulf between their power.

"Don't you go underestimating old timers."

The figure they stood across from the trio let his eye settle on Erudite. His withered face accompanied by a stern presence. A single hand behind his back whilst the other was held in front of him.

“I will only ask this once… where is your leader… I will not have blood run rampant in these streets.”

It wasn’t a question born completely out of nowhere. In fact, it made a lot of sense. If the Happo Navy had to show up and deal with this, then it would bring disgrace to the martial arts academy that had been constructed here. Especially since most martial arts academies were established on Karate Island. So for this place to be considered legitimate, it had to handle its affairs internally.

Though, Long Pi was no fool. If this intruder was his former student… then he was certain that the leader of the Happo Navy and his former protege were on equal footing. A fight between the two would prove ruinous for a lot more than just the civilians of this island.

With a sigh the elder focused on Erudite, who chose to save her own neck without necessarily selling out her captain in the process.

“Funnily enough, darlin’ we were lookin’ fer yew. In fact, the Boss’ll be glad to see yew again. We can take yew where tha Boss said ta’ meet up with him. Sound good?”

With a nod the old man turned his back once more towards the cohort. They had tried to jump him from behind already, but their efforts landed them in their current predicament. There was no reason to continue the escalation further. Especially not now that the big boss was coming
.
This was one-hundred percent a Brood problem anyway. It had nothing to do with Desmond. Yeah, that was what he figured. Not that his body was in so much pain that he had to use whatever rage and adrenaline he had to not simply pass out.

On that note, the quartet set out. To meet up with brood on a small isle just outside of Kano proper.

Just outside of Kano Kingdom

In the interim of waiting for his crewmates to regroup, Brood had gained a modicum of information from the captured woman. It turned out that her name was Miranda Whiskers and she led a group of pirates that went by the name of the Kitty Combine. A collective of rogues and former retired athletes who took to the sea to find fame and fortune after being too old, injured or unpopular in their sports back home.

She didn’t seem to be a bad person, which for Brood didn’t matter all too much, but it did mean that if he wanted to recruit her he was going to have to convince her without appealing to her greed. For it didn’t seem as though she had that trait.

This in itself was a tricky battle for the man and his having tied up her mouth was not making matters any easier.

Brood stood while Miranda was tied up with licorice ropes, arms behind her back and holding her into place. He had her laid on her side and though his massive frame was considerably intimidating, all pretenses of his strength waned and washed away the moment that he heard a familiar voice call out to him.

Arms which were once crossed over another, fell to his side and he turned swiftly to stare down the chiseled mountain of aging flesh that was now before him. Despite the bravado and encouragement from his crewmates, he still wasn’t quite ready for this.

Wasn’t ready to face destiny in its maw of endless torment.

“Do not ignore me, boy. I said, have you truly sunk so low as to attack martial artists? They’ve naught to do with your ceaseless bid to become a notorious criminal. I told you to specifically seek out my pupil. Not slaughter everyone like dogs.”

Brood’s eyes narrowed as he rose to his feet. The memories of the countless beatings he suffered at this man’s hands affected his body involuntarily. It wasn’t out of fear per se. But it was the closest possible emotion to that. There was an anxiousness in him, an eagerness to regain what had been stolen from him.

His toxic masculinity.

“Eeee……e…e..h.ee…. Old man… How lovely-eh for you to come…. Thank you for-ee bringing my crew along.”

Long Pi shook his head in disapproval.

“I told you to never show your face to me again. I will foster no cowards.”

“Cowards-eh, are you so sure? I ain’t the fraud-ee running around doing whatever eh-they damn well please… Your precious student… I took him out. Just as we agreed…”

{ Part 3 }

{ 1,588 | 6,265 | 15,000 }

sucré @ gs

[Arc][Kano Arc][Part 2] Delicious Debut - Snack-Fu Hustle

[Arc][Kano Arc][Part 2] Delicious Debut - Snack-Fu Hustle

Re: [Arc][Kano Arc][Part 2] Delicious Debut - Snack-Fu Hustle

Re: [Arc][Kano Arc][Part 2] Delicious Debut - Snack-Fu Hustle

Re: [Arc][Kano Arc][Part 2] Delicious Debut - Snack-Fu Hustle

Re: [Arc][Kano Arc][Part 2] Delicious Debut - Snack-Fu Hustle

Re: [Arc][Kano Arc][Part 2] Delicious Debut - Snack-Fu Hustle

Re: [Arc][Kano Arc][Part 2] Delicious Debut - Snack-Fu Hustle

Re: [Arc][Kano Arc][Part 2] Delicious Debut - Snack-Fu Hustle

Re: [Arc][Kano Arc][Part 2] Delicious Debut - Snack-Fu Hustle

Re: [Arc][Kano Arc][Part 2] Delicious Debut - Snack-Fu Hustle

Re: [Arc][Kano Arc][Part 2] Delicious Debut - Snack-Fu Hustle

Re: [Arc][Kano Arc][Part 2] Delicious Debut - Snack-Fu Hustle

Re: [Arc][Kano Arc][Part 2] Delicious Debut - Snack-Fu Hustle

Re: [Arc][Kano Arc][Part 2] Delicious Debut - Snack-Fu Hustle

Re: [Arc][Kano Arc][Part 2] Delicious Debut - Snack-Fu Hustle

Re: [Arc][Kano Arc][Part 2] Delicious Debut - Snack-Fu Hustle

Re: [Arc][Kano Arc][Part 2] Delicious Debut - Snack-Fu Hustle

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