[Episode] Amazon Therapy

Episode:

"Um, Anton? What are you doing?"

Celia had become adjusted to some of the eccentricities of her crew, but there were still some things that surprised her. In this case, it was seeing Anton laying on a deck chair out on the open deck of the Grand Steamer. The man even had his eyes closed, but it was clear he wasn't asleep. "Our good doctor," Anton replied, his eyes still closed, "has instructed me to relax." He raised a finger, "and to make sure I do so..."

He pointed in four different directions. Celia followed his finger to see five of their men positioned, all armed with rifles, all pointed at Anton. "Dr. Black assures me they only have tranquilizer rounds." Anton finished.

Celia stared for a moment. Their doctor had some...peculiar ways of tending to the crew. "And what has our doctor ordering you to relax like this?" Anton gave a small grumble. "Ever since we left I've been getting this itch in the back of my mind that's been keeping me up at night." Celia understood perfectly. Anton normally got wound up during regular times. But now, not only were they going to the Grand Line, but they were going through the Calm Belt to get there. The whole crew was on edge, so who knew how their neurotic captain was feeling. "Well, with the seastone keel, we should get through without any problems."

At that point, a voice rang out through the ship's PA system. "Land ho!" Celia gave a small smile. "See? We're there already, and actually faster than schedul-YIPES!" She jumped up as Anton sprang to his feet and shot skyward, followed by the Crack of four marksman firing at their captain and missing. With one mighty leap, Anton shot straight up to the ship's lookout point. Celia crossed her arms, waiting for him to inevitably come back down. Maybe seeing the island for himself would calm him down.

As Anton came back down from above, she saw the expression on his face was not one of relief. Instead, it was one that showed his fears had been proven right.

"Celia, would you be so kind as to fetch Miss Adder?"


Post Word Count: 366
Total Word Count: 366

While all the activity was buzzing on the main floors of the ship, it was not that much so on the lowest of levels on the ship. On this damp most ship bottom floor, at the furthest end at the rear, metal boxes were in a row there. Each metal box contained a door that was locked shut, but they all also had one small hatch. For a sharp-eyed visitor to this part of the ship, they would think that this was the part where the prison cells, or also known as, the brings, were held... And they would be right.

Absolute silence was in this entire part of the ship. A total ghost ship there... Except it really wasn't. Sealed shut in one of the brigs, there was a person, sitting there, in the total darkness, with only some light escaping through the doorway cracks into the very metal room.

It was Ryoichi, who was still carrying out his punishment after the latest ordeal that had happened regarding the gossip spreading marine, and him using his fists a bit. A couple of days in the brig is not a big thing, a minor punishment for this kind of behavior, even if it was what those marines deserved. Water under the bridge.

What wasn't water under the bridge, however, was the fact that this was not the only punishment that Ryoichi had. It wasn't one that was given to him by anyone. It was one that he had himself given. "Waaaaaater... Wa-a-a-ater..." soft and very silent, dry, almost painful whispers came out of Ryoichi, who had curled up, in this dark room, with head lowered, and eyes wide open. It was hard to see, or even say, what was exactly going on, but one thing was sure, this was not really good... What was happening in this metal box?

Some sort of divine punishment was being performed?

[317/5000]

Anton was still waiting on the deck silently as Celia returned, with Melanie in tow. The woman, as per usual, was dressed in a rather refined gown. The tall woman was a walking fashion show. "You wished to see me Mr. La'croix?" she asked, that knowing smile ever present on her face.

She knows. She damn well knows why I called her up here.

"Miss Adder," Anton spoke, trying to keep calm, "it seems we have come across an island." "Indeed sir." "Ahead of schedule, actually." "Yes sir." OK, that smile was starting to grate on his nerves. "And would you happen to know which island that is?" Her smile widened slightly, almost teasingly. "Yes sir."

Well, that confirmed it. Anton took a deep breath. "Then please, Miss Adder, if you would be so kind as to explain, why you brought us to AMAZON LILY!?" That caused everyone on deck to pause. They were going to THE island of maidens? Where men were simply not allowed on pain of death?

And yet, Melanie did not seem bothered. "Is it wrong to want to visit my home, sir?" she asked coyly. Anton's eyes narrowed. He didn't buy it for a second. "You wouldn't have led us here without telling us if that was your only reason."

Melanie almost looked happy Anton didn't simply buy her excuse. "Well, truth be told, my reason for bringing us here is Yumiko." Anton rose an eyebrow. "Yumiko?" The kuja wonan nodded. "Indeed, though I believe it would be best not to talk about this in the open."

Dammit, she was right! Anton took a deep breath to calm himself. "Celia, can you please go and fetch Ryoichi from the brig? He's been down there long enough. Then collect Yumiko and Doc Black and bring them to the meeting room." He turned his gaze sharply to Melanie, "and in the meantime, you are explaining everything to me, now."

Melanie seemed completely unfazed, as usual. "As you wish. Lead the way sir." Anton quietly grumbled to himself as he and the navigator headed to the meeting room, while Celia reluctantly went to gather the others.


Post Word Count: 358
Total Word Count: 724

One task in the assignment down, another one to go. After the brief conversation with the plague Doctor about his rather, interesting study session with Yumiko, she bid him farewell, for now, to head and finish the second task of hers. Next stop, the lowest of the low, on the ship, the brig.

She quickly grabbed the keys which were hanging on the wall and began to search for the right one from among the multiple of them. "One... Two... Three, ah... Four.". The key number four was found, for prisoner number four, in the prison cell number four. "Rise and shine Mr. Ayugai, your vacation is over and you are expected in the meeting room...-" her eyes widened the moment she had unlocked the solid metal room.

"WHAT THE HELL?!"

Celia was met with sitting down knees close to chest Ryoichi... Rather different looking Ryoichi. A built man had turned into more of a... Skin and bones of a man, so skinny.  His skin looked rough as if moisture had escaped from him entirely, one could even peel it off right now, sings of a rough liquid deficiency and hunger. His signature pompadour hairstyle had dropped, the gel had lost its ability to hold it up, leaving the long hair to cover his eyes and half of his face.

"It's... Finally... Over..." Ryoichi mumbled lowly, with a rough tone as his head raised up towards the doorway which shone bright light through. His eyes squinted, not having been used to such a bright light for a short while.

"Quickly! Get the medics!" a den den mushi call was sent out by Celia herself as she heading to the small room on the brig floor, clearly, she was going to find the guards who had been keeping an eye on him, leaving Ryoichi in the prison cell... Unwatched.

Ryoichi on the other hand had other ideas. He moved his shaking arms to help himself up from the cold damp floor, to leave the prison cell behind the step back into the freedom, immediately back into the duty. His escape was swift, and successful, even in his weak form. His destination, the meeting room.

When Celia had finally gathered the guards and the medic had finally arrived on the scene, she had some scolding words to hand out. "WHO GAVE YOU THE ORDERS TO TREAT HIM LIKE SCUM?! WHY HAVEN'T YOU FEED OUR SOL...- WHERE DID HE GO?!" she stopped her schooling mid-sentence as she was met by an empty prison cell. She took a few steps into the room and looked around.

"But Staff officer Stanson! We did feed him!" the guards tried to frantically explain their actions. "HOW COME DID OUR SOLDIER THEN LOOK LIKE...-" another mid-sentence stop the moment she saw something interesting. The corner of the darkroom where the light barely reached, had multiple trays, full of food, and water cups... All still full of water. The food still smelled okay, although the earliest ones had begun to dry up a bit but not reek too much.

"Wh...What?! Why are the trays here though?" "He said he made some ornaments from them to kill some time!" "You bafoons! We wash them and reuse them!" a heavy sigh escaped her lips as she then handed out new orders to the medics and guards. "We need to find Mr. Ayugai immediately! Search the ship. I'll go and report this to Rear Admiral immediately."

Meanwhile, soft knocks were done on the door and then slowly opened up. "Petty Officer... Ayugai... Reporting... In." with rough voice, the skin and bones man with loose hair reported in with the hand performing salute. Shortly after, Celia herself made it to the room. "Anton! Mr. Ayugai has done some...- YOU!" she pointed at Ryoichi... Oh he was caught.

[952/5000]

By the time Yumiko had arrived, Melanie had ample time to explain her plan to Anton. As such, the Rear Admiral was now less frantic, and now more just a little annoyed. "Come in," he called when he heard her voice, waiting for Yumiko to enter and take her place. One can always rely on her to turn up promptly when called.

The next to arrive was Ryoichi and...it was certainly something. Anton sprang to his feet, seeing how thin the man had become. "What the hell!? What happened?" This was met shortly by a frantic Celia arriving. "Celia, what the hell?" "The idiot starved himself while he was in the brig!" Celia replied hurriedly. Anton fell back in his seat with a groan. "Dammit, I only sent you to the brig for a few days, not order you to torture yourself. I already have one needlessly self destructive member of this crew, I don't need two!" He looked over at Celia. "See to it some food gets brought up for him. And damn well make sure he eats it."

After making sure Ryoichi had been taken care of, and Doc Black had arrived, Anton was finally ready to brief the crew.

"Now then, it seems our voyage into the Grand Line has taken a bit of a detour," Anton explained, "We are making a small stop at Amazon Lily, the island of women." He gave a brief pause to allow the others to digest this before continuing. "Now, Melanie has explained to me why she brought us here, and while I'm annoyed she didn't run this by me first," he sent a sideways glance at Melanie, who gave a casual shrug, "I do believe we can get something productive out of this. As such, when we arrive, Yumiko and Celia are to accompany Melanie onto the island. Other female members of the crew are permitted on shore as well."

Melanie nodded. "We Kuja are a tight knit group, but we're not adverse to visitors, especially ones I can vouch for." "Provided said visitors are female." Doc Black interjected. Anton nodded. "Indeed, which brings me to my next point. All men, including myself, are to remain on the ship. I'd rather have this visit go with as little incident as possible." Melanie nodded in agreement. "A very wise notion," her smile slipped as her eyes turned serious, "I can assure you that every girl and woman in Amazon Lily are capable fighters. Any man on who steps sets foot there will have the entire island hunting for them."

"A fact I will hammer into the mens' heads, I assure you," Anton replied, "Oh, they'll complain, but I'd rather deal with their moaning than their deaths." He looked over everyone in the room. "We will be arriving there shortly. Any questions?"


Post Word Count: 470
Total Word Count: 1,194

Ryoichi's hands moved in front of him with a sort of defense mechanism the moment he saw Yumiko about to draw her blade. "Of course... That is me... Can't you tell?" the dry voiced Ryoichi responded to Yumiko, followed by a smile with his dry lips, all the while Anton and Celia were discussing what had happened to Ryoichi. The moment he had heard the word 'idiot', his head shifted and turned towards Celia's direction, "H...Hey... I am no..! *cough* Idiot!" the shout with a completely dry mouth lead Ryoichi to cough a bit on the spot.

Shortly after, Celia motioned the other marines to listen to Anton's orders and bring something to eat for Ryoichi. "Please, just... A big jug of... Water to start." His request was modest, but for a good reason. "Don't want my... Stomach... Ruined." a dry chuckle followed the remark, to which the plague doctor nodded, understanding Ryoichi's reason. The body had been put through a rough regime, while the recovery can be fast, it cannot be rushed.

His jug of water was delivered, and he began to slowly drink the liquid sent by the gods onto this very planet they live on, or so it felt at that very moment. "Nothing beats this drink." the freshly moisturized mouth removed the dryness in his voice, but his talking was cut short by a silent shushing Celia.

Whoops... He had forgotten he was in the meeting room and participating in a meeting. His silence finally allowed it to continue. And what a meeting it was. The things Ryoichi found out about. His eyes widened the moment he had heard where they were.

"AMAZON LILY?! THE LAND OF MISTRESSES?! THE PLACE WHERE ONLY THE MOST BEAUTIFUL COME FROM?! OH BOY OH BOY OH BOY." Ryoichi had darted up from his seat, his hands were close to his face, formed into fists as he was 'dreaming' about the place with rather visible enthusiasm, even having his face form a rather weird smile as if he had ulterior motives. Perhaps he should have chosen the time and place for it... Multiple higher ranking members looked at Ryoichi with confusion? Or understanding?

Either way, when he had noticed the prying eyes of the ones witnessing his enthusiasm, and immediately set himself down, apologizing with a head bow. If that didn't kill his enthusiasm, Anton telling him that they can't go onto land did so even more. "I thought the Amazon Lily now allowed visitors, even male visitors on the leash... I take it as that's not true?" he blinked as he threw the question out while hoping to himself that what Anton said was not right. Oh, what a tragedy it would be if what he knew was a lie... But an understandable one... He had heard the stories of what can happen to men there... Not good...

[1430/5000]

Ryoichi's reaction to their destination was, well, expected. Honestly, going to an island full of beautiful women was any man's fantasy. However, the Kuja had done a pretty good job of spreading the island's reputation of hostility towards men. If you didn't want horny folks turning up to your island, just kill anyone dumb enough to turn up.

The questions came at once. Ryoichi's was pretty reasonable, though a little mistaken on his part. Yumiko's caused Anton to pause. He cast a glance over at Doc Black, whose weariness was obvious even through his mask. Definitely something he would need to ask about later. Right now, it was time to tread very carefully. He could sense Yumiko's fragile psych depending on it.

Anton cleared his throat. "It is true that Amazon Lily can take male visitors, but such occasions are very rare, normally under certain circumstances and usually with some forewarning. And as you can tell, our visit is none of those. So for everyone's well being, the men are remaining here." He looked over at Yumiko. "In Yumiko's case..."

"We believe Yumiko's presence will be tolerated," Melanie cut in, looking at Yumiko, "Provided that they stay with myself and Miss Stanson." Anton caught the avoidance of gendered language. He was a little impressed by how quickly the woman adapted. Melanie gave Yumiko a smile. "Besides, I believe this visit will do you good. You wish to become a skilled warrior for the Mr. La'croix and this crew. Well, I think a visit to a culture of warriors, other than your own, would be quite educational. And the Rear Admiral agrees." Anton couldn't have said it any better. Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed Doc Black's gaze was firmly locked on the Kuja.

And then came the sledgehammer that was Yumiko's next question. Even Melanie was surprised by the abruptness of it, but kept calm. Celia's eyes bugged out, while Doc Black groaned, removed his mask, and his face promptly fell into his hand. And this briefing had been going so well too.

"No, I do not."

There was a pause for a moment before Celia and Black slowly looked over at Anton. That was it? No reaction? No flustering? The man seemed absolutely calm.

Anton rose to his feet. "If there's nothing else, Yumiko, get yourself ready. Celia, inform the crew. Everyone else, get ready for landfall. We will be arriving there in a couple of hours. Dismissed."


Post Word Count: 412
Total Word Count: 1,606

Disappointment preached into Ryoichi when he had heard that in the end, he nor any other man can take a step on the land of beauty! "This is outrageous... This is unfair..." he mumbled very lowly to himself with his arms folded as if he was a small child. But that subtle behavior was fast dropped and followed by a soft sigh of acceptance. He could not do much in this situation anyway.

What he could do was widen his eyes and question what Yumiko had just said. "Do a what? Breed a what? Heir to what?" Seriously... What? To say such an odd thing so openly, it's sure to have heads turn. Thank the lord this room only has the higher-ups and some of the 'inner circle' as one could say, so another wildfire of gossips won't spread. But, he's sure she already knows that... Right?

After another calming down sigh on his part, the disappointing meeting had ended. He stood back up after he had finished his glass of water and was ready to approach Yumiko to talk to her... But the weasel woman was faster, and she was already on her way to perform her tasks, leaving Ryoichi hanging.

"Fast as always. If it isn't too much of a bother, I'll go and take a shower." he asked for permission, which was granted to him by Celia herself. "Permission granted, Mr. Ayugai. But don't ever do again what you did in that brig!" "It was part of training and testing on myself." "Whatever it was! Now get going!"

Ryoichi performed the salutation and immediately moved out of the room. His movement already was faster than it was when he had first left the brig. It was clear, the water was already working, the energy was recovering, and the dryness of skin was slowly fading... It will be even better after a refreshing and well-deserved shower.

[318/1748/5000]

The couple of hours before their arrival at Amazon Lily seemed to both go by quickly, and at the same time drag on forever. Perhaps it was that sense that Anton had developed during his career that told him something was going to go wrong. He made it absolutely clear to the men that they were not going on shore. Naturally, they grumbled and moaned, but it didn't take long for the stories of what might happen to them to circulate enough for them to quiete down.

Meanwhile, the women were excited for the trip. It was like a small vacation for them before they left to the Grand Line. As such, when they arrived they were all waiting on deck, talking amongst themselves when they arrived. They had docked by a small cove, lined with jungle. The harbor, as Melanie explained, was for expected and important visitors. Anyone simply dropping by had to hoof it through the jungle.

Melanie and Celia were waiting along with them when Yumiko arrived. "Ah, perfect timing. We're about to disembark." Melanie looked out at the gathered women. "If I can have your attention. We're going to be going through some jungle before we hit the city. Just keep close and follow my instructions, and we'll all be fine. Now, if you're all ready, let's go!"

With Melanie leading, followed by Celia and Yumiko, and then other ladies of the crew, the group walked down the gangplank onto the island, making their way into the jungle.

Meanwhile, back on deck, the men watched the women leave with envious eyes. And walked into the center of the deck, where everyone can see him. "Well guys, we've got some hours to kill until they get back. Until then you're free to do as you like. Sleep, drink, run drills, whatever. Do what you like, as long as you all remain on the ship."


Post Word Count: 317
Total Word Count: 1,923

"Stupid unfair rules of a stupid island full of just women who do who knows what not letting men on the ground stupid rules stupid...Stupid unfair... My dreams!" Ryoichi mumbled the moment he had stepped out of the shower booth, having freshened himself up with barely any spots of dry-looking skin left. His hand grabbed a hold of one towel which he first used to dry his hair, then face, then the rest of the body, only to then eventually wrap it around his waist.

He stepped in front of the mirror and looked into it. His hands twisted the jar open which contained a familiar scented gel. It was his hair gel, which is used to hold up his long hair and form his known pompadour. While he was adjusting his hair up, he remained to mumble in front of the mirror. "Who the hell thought of this kind of idea to form an island exclusively full of women... There isn't an island exclusively full of men. Stupid stupid thing!

A calming sigh followed then. It was just his jealousy and desire to visit the island since he was a young teen speaking with him. It had begun to cloud his judgment and knowledge of their traditions, which he as a marine had to respect. An inner struggle, which had a clear victor in common sense, but a deadly opponent if left uncontrolled in his a bit more 'perverted' side.

After having 'groomed' himself and gotten dressed, he left the crew quarters and head back out on the deck. The sun was shining, emitting its heat down on them. Pleasant tropical weather. When looking closely, you could even see the waves of heat on the horizon. A clear sign that they had made it. Amazon Lily was right there when looking off the deck. "The island of maidens!" he couldn't help but express his joy... But deep inside, the clear sadness was brewing due to all that was said earlier.

When he saw all the women leaving the ship and heading for the jungle, he just stood there with his arms hanging. "This is unfair..." he still mumbled to himself in silence. "Wait... What if I sneak out? I'm a bear I can probably blend in the jungle. I can pick up the scent and follow them... No that's the wrong thing to do. I can't disobey the warnings... But the ladies... And we only live once to see the beauty... Nope nope nope..."

An exception with this conflict is, it was a mumble... But it was hearable mumble. As a matter of fact, it was a head-turner. It caught the eye of a couple of marines, both of who nodded to Ryoichi's dilemma and those who shook their head with confusion.

Suddenly, it felt as if a lightbulb lit up in Ryoichi's head. He quickly moved over to the latter and began to climb it all the way up the mast, to the watchtower. "Hey hey, give this to me." Ryoichi motioned to the current watcher to give his spyglass. "Come on Spyglass... You are my only hope right now... Show me the goods!" he mumbled to himself once again, as he was seeking the gold!

[538/2286/5000]

Fortunately the trek through the jungle was without incident. Years of living with the Kuja had taught the local wildlife to be wary of women, especially in large groups. As a result, this became a simple jungle stroll for the ladies.

Eventually the foliage gave way to a bright, bustling city. Building built from wood and stone, the place was alive with activity. Women going about their day, doing their business, dressed in the bright, colorful, and somewhat revealing garb that was the norm with Amazin Lily. And as the legends described, not a man in sight.

Many that noticed the group paused and watched curiously. After all, it wasn't every day a group of strangers appeared out of the jungle. Melanie took a step forward as, seeming to materialize out of nowhere, three women, all armed, approached them. The leader, a large, bulky woman, standing even taller than Melanie, stood before her. She eyed the group, noting the many uniforms. "Marines?"

Melanie nodded. "Just here for a brief visit. No need for concern. Our ship is docked out in the cove a few miles back." The large woman nodded, scanning the visitors with a keen eye. "No men?" Melanie gave a small chuckle, "Oh, they know the rules. They are staying firmly on the ship." The guards woman nodded. "Good. Just keep out of trouble and everything should be fine. Welcome to Amazon Lily."


"So, any idea what that was about?" Anton asked, leaning back on the side railing. Beside him, Doc Black gave a weary sigh. "I honestly don't know what's up with her. She acknowledges that she's physically female, but seems to believe that being a samurai seems to completely override that, like it magically changes her into a man."

Anton gave a small nod. He could remember her saying before that women could not be samurai. "And at the same time, she seems to believe that a samurai is its own separate gender. There's no logic or reasoning behind it, she just is. It's like being a samurai is her sole focus in life, disregarding everything else."

Anton nodded again, quietly murmuring to himself. "And anything about herself that doesn't conform to it she denies or is ashamed of."


Post Word Count: 375
Total Word Count: 2,298

"Goods, come on, goods, where are they?" Ryoichi moved the spyglass up and down left and right, but all he could see was thick jungle blocking the view. Probably the city of maidens was hidden inside of the thick jungle. If only he could see a tiny bit... Is that too much to be asked? Unfortunately yes. Ryoichi let out a heavy sigh as he lowered the spyglass and shook his head. "No luck... A sad day it is for the Ryoichi." he mumbled to himself in the third person for absolutely no reason.

He lowered himself against the watchtower railing and brooded. Disappointing and sad day. "Umm. Mr. Ayugai... Could I have my spyglass back? I really need to be on the watch." the marine whose duty was upon the watchtower patted on brooding Ryoichi's shoulder, followed by a valid question. Ryoichi did not even resist, the hand reached out that held the spyglass for the marine to take it and continue his duty. What was the point to even keep on looking? It was time to accept the defeat and settle with the fact that he can't go to the city of maidens.

Suddenly, Ryoichi felt his ears twitching. Amongst the noise of the sea, the seagulls, the wind blowing, and the leaves moving to the wind, he could hear some whispers. His eyes shifted around on the ship, trying to pinpoint the location of the whisper. Normally, he wouldn't care about the whispers... But these ones, they were recognizable... Yes, the same group of bad boys! With another ulterior motive! Ladies were mentioned... And escape plan.

"Time to bounce and see the ladies! We only live once!" a group of three down on the deck began to rush towards the ramp and make their grand escape. Out of those three, two were almost immediately caught on their way off the ramp, except one, the most loud-mouthed one and the obvious leader of the same bunch who spread the gossip... And eventually got beat up a bit by Ryoichi. "See you later! I am off to promise land!"

Ryoichi grabbed onto the railings on the watchtower and gritted his teeth, which even became a tiny bit sharper as he was transforming a tiny bit on that end. "Those idiots disobeying the orders!". And yet, another lightbulb lit up in Ryoichi's head. The perfect moment! He could say he went after the escaping marine! Which he did! But he also has the lifetime chance to see the maidens! "If I can't go! No one will!"

He performed strong leg movement and pushed himself off from the watchtower. Thanks to enough force, he pushed himself right over to the land, onto which he landed with a roll and immediately ran into the forest while picking up the scent of the marine. The last time he had to cover such a jumping gap, he went ahead and took the stairs... This time, he went ahead and jumped, as if he had magically gotten the strength to do so. Weird are the ways of Amazon Lily?

[514/2800/5000]

At Yumiko's outburst, everyone stopped and stared at the overly bashful swordswoman. The Kuja, especially, were confused. She...was a woman, right? The shape, the voice, everything seemed to match up. The head guard took a step towards her. "Erm, all women are allowed here. You know that, right? Why would you think otherwise?" She paused when Melanie placed a hand on her arm. "It's a bit complicated. I'll take care of this."

The guard gave a small nod, still confused as they stepped back. Celia, sensing this was the time, turned to the others. "Feel free to explore, just don't cause any trouble. We'll meet back here when it's time to depart." The other marines began to split off, to explore the city, soon leaving Celia, Melanie, and Yumiko.

Melanie stood before Yumiko. "First of all, your request is denied. I brought us to this island for your sake. Now then, I would like to ask you something." She took a breath. Time to hit this problem head on. "You know you're a woman, Doc Black has told me this. So why do you deny it so fervently?"


"And then there's the sheer amount of stuff she DOESN'T know. I mean, she's not untelligent, she's capable and eager to learn, but there's so much she simply should know, but doesn't."

Anton cupped his chin in thought. The was a rather disturbing implication. "Remind me to take a look at her file." He had realized he never really knew much about Yumiko's past. She was from Wano, sure, but what else? Her childhood? Her family?"

"Sir!"

Both Rear Admiral and doctor looked over as a Seaman scrambled up to them, panicking. "Seaman Lyle? What is it?" Anton asked, though the growing pit in his stomach was telling him what the possible answer was. "Done of the men sir!" Lyle splattered out, "They pulled a runner! We stopped two of them, but one of them got on the island!"

Anton's face twisted in a panicked snarl. "God dammit! I gave them one simple order! One!" "I-it's OK sir! Mr. Ayugai's gone after him sir!" Thqt statement did NOT make Anton feel better. He remembered the man's enthusiasm to get on the island, and now he had an excuse. "Doc! You're coming with me! We're getting them back."

"If I might say," Doc Black interjected, "It might be best to have as few men on the island as possible." "Oh trust me doc." Anton turned, his eye wide with rage, "They're going to need your assistance, one way or another!"


Post Word Count: 429
Total Word Count: 2,727

In the jungle, the mighty jungle, Ryoichi grew big! White fur began to form all around his body as he began to take the shape of the bear. It was time to deploy the master plan that he had created but didn't know would it be needed. It was time to blend into the jungle wildlife... As the polar bear... There's probably only one person who thinks that's a great idea, that being Ryoichi himself.

He lowered his nose and began to sniff the ground to pick up the scent of the familiar marine escapee. "You won't get away from me now." he mumbled lowly to himself as he began to move his big bear frame around the jungle. With some smaller and weaker trees, his big frame made them spread out as he squeezed through them.

Suddenly, he could hear some ripping noise coming from his leg area. Some of the sharper branches of the trees within the jungle had managed to rip his clothing. "Grrrr... An overlooked fac... Wait a minute...". Ryoichi today was the machine of good ideas! Another lightbulb lit up in his mind. What a smart fellow!

"If I just do this... And this... And fold them... Tada... I am the jungle animal.". Freshly unclothed Ryoichi grinned. The big marine-issued clothes were hidden under thick nearby tree roots. His search could continue and his chances of getting caught had been reduced significantly! Right? Stomp... Stomp... Stomp... Ryoichi then continued his stroll through the forest with his nose down on the ground. He kept on sniffing out where the 'little' bugger of a marine had gone to.


"Look, look... What has happened here?" a group of three looked at the spread-out trees, and then looked down at large paw prints. The paws did suggest that the creature would be a predator, thanks to its claw prints... But the shape was nothing they had seen before. "What kind of creature could have created that?" "No idea... But it must be something we have not met before. As hunters, it's our duty to track it down... And claim its trophy."

The hunt was on and by none other than the Kuja hunting party themselves. Ryoichi better does his best with the blending in, because these hunters will not spare him, especially since they have the plan set.´

[397/3197/5000]

Yumiko's response was, well, pretty expected from what Melanie had learned of her. According to her, women couldn't be samurai. So if she was a samurai, she wasn't a woman. This painted one of two pictures. One, someone absolutely obsessed with being a samurai to the point of ignoring reality, or someone ashamed of being a woman and trying to hide from it in any way possible. Or possibly a combination of the two. At least, that was how Melanie saw it.

Meanwhile, Celia tilted her head, processing what Yumiko said. "That...sounds a little off," she murmured, more to herself as she fell into her own thoughts of the subject.
Melanie looked down at the bowing samurai. "No need for punishment. It's good you can think for yourself. I just wish to help hammer out the kinks as it were. Walk with me."

She waited for her to rise before the three of thrm started walking down the street through the city. "Now, I want you to tell me something. And I want you to think carefully before you answer," Melanie instructed, "Describe to me what a samurai is. But do NOT make any reference to gender. Just tell me the core traits that make up a samurai."


Under normal circumstances, Anton would have been shooting through the jungle at high speed. But, this was essentially a stealth mission. As such, Anton and Doc Black were carefully making their way through the jungle of Amazon Lily. They were trying to avoid the city. Surely Ryoichi, nor the other man would be stupid enough to just walk right in.

"Stupid, absolute idiots!" Anton hissed I hushed tones, "I ask them to stay on board. I tell what could happen, and they run off like a bunch of horny teenagers!" "Well," Doc Black replied, "consider this a test of leadership, dealing with unruly crew members." Anton sighed softly. "Doc, if we're going to go through the Grand Line, I can't afford to have a crew who won't obey orders and keep doing stuff like this." "Is that why you approved of Yumiko being brought here?"

"Exactly," Anton answered, "I know she's capable of do much, but it's like something's holding her back. Not physically, but mentally. And..." He paused, freezing for a moment. "Shit..." Doc Black stopped behind him. "Sir? What's wrong?"

Anton slowly stood up straight, bringing his hands up. "Raise your hands Doc," he muttered in resignation, "We've been caught."


Post Word Count: 412
Total Word Count: 3,139

"Finally in the clear." with the hands on his knees, the escaping marine inhaled and exhaled the air around him. He had seemingly successfully made his grand escape... But this escape meant he had found himself somewhere unknown in the jungle. It seems that the thinking part had to come later. Where to go, where he would end up? The plan was half-baked! An amateur move.

It did not take too long until a small panic kicked in and the marine escapee began to turn his head and look around, only to be met by nothing else but tall trees and some smaller jungle life. "Wh...Whe... Am I... Lost? No. There's got to be a way out." In situations like this, you got two choices. Keep on moving and look for a way out, or stay in place and wait for a search party, or your inevitable end. The escape had the first idea. He had decided to keep on moving.

Call it luck, but it could be that the lad had struck the gold with his decision. Not too far away, he could hear a voice, giggling... Two voices... Of a female! The man immediately began to move towards the location. "N..No way... Are those... The maidens?". He and the location of the voices were separated by a simple bush, into which he stuck his head, trying to see through it before he rushed through.

Steaming air was around, but the silhouettes of maidens could be seen. "No way.. Is that... Public bath? Hot spring? Oh boy, my luck..." the exited marine mumbled to himself as he tried to catch of glimpse of the gold he had been seeking.

The biggest mistake with the excitement that people often make is that they lose their sense of their surroundings. A similar thing happened with Ryoichi when he expressed his thoughts out audibly. With the marine escapee, however... It was more of a dangerous mistake. With his back exposed and butt sticking out from the bush, he exactly wasn't trying hard to hide.

"Come on... Move out of the mist a...- Whaaaaa!" the soft and low mumble swiftly turned into a scream. The marine was immediately pulled from the bush by something grabbing a hold of his leg. Between the marines screaming, growling could be heard. The marine was thrown on the ground and then stared at by none other than Ryoichi who had finally managed to track him down.

The marine scrambled on the ground and was ready to run away, only to then be stopped by Ryoichi once more who this time bit the escaping marine's leg softly enough with the parts of teeth so he wouldn't pierce the leg, but strong enough to inflict some pressure on him. The marine kept on screaming. The adrenaline was pumping, so much even that he did not realize the beast that was 'attacking' him was Ryoichi himself. "Help! Aaaaah the beast is trying to eat me!"

The pathetic screams of help spread through the forest like wildfire. It did not take long until the Kuja search party had managed to find their location, aswell the maidens of the hot springs. With his piercing eyes, he looked at the maidens... What a beautiful sight it was! There was a mix of beauty and strength! And all of the women in their traditional Kuja outfits! But this was bad. The weapons were a clear indication that this was the search party... And Ryoichi was to still play the part.

"Beast of unknown! Release the human!" warning was thrown out to the beast, aka Ryoichi who seemed to 'attack' the escape marine. To them, it looked like it was just a beast trying to get its food. The order was disobeyed, and another escape was planned. Ryoichi began to rush through the jungle... And the Kuja, of course... Followed. "Capture the beast! We need to claim it as a trophy and investigate it!"

[659/3859/5000]

Melanie listened as Yumiko went surprisingly in depth about what a samurai was. Figures that THAT was something she knew inside and out. Still, she was providing the information Melanie needed. Meanwhile, Celia was lost in her own thoughts, as if not really paying attention.

"Indeed. With that in mind, I have another question for you Yumiko." Melanie gave a small smile, "From what I have heard, you believe that women cannot be samurai. That only men can be samurai. If I may ask, why is that the case? Is a woman incapable of practicing bushido? Of being an honorable warrior, protecting those in need? All the traits you described can be done by a woman, just as well as a man can. So why can a woman not be a samurai?"

She waited quietly for the samurai to answer. Oh, she had a suspicion of what the answer would be, and she was more than ready for it. She was hoping to get Yumiko to think about her answer. To slowly notice the flaws in her mindset.


Through the foliage,  five women stepped out. All dressed in the traditional Kuja garb, armed with spears and bows. One even had a snake coiled around her. One of them, a muscular woman a little taller than Anton, with wild brown hair, approached him.  A small smile was on her face.

"You noticed our presence before you could even see us," she said, "Quite impressive. Most people would be completely in the dark before we had weapons drawn on them." Anton kept his hands raised. "I've lived a dangerous life," he replied respectfully, "I wouldn't have lasted long without a keen sense for these things."

The Kuja nodded before gesturing to the others. A woman went behind each of the men, pulling their arms down and began tying them behind their backs. "Men are forbidden on this island," the huntress spoke, her smile slipping, "State your business." "My apologies," Anton answered, "We're looking for a couple of my men." The huntress' eyes narrowed. "There's more of you?" "Yes, two of them."

The huntress took a deep breath, "I'm sure our patrols will find them." Anton nodded. "Good. Capture them of course, maybe even rough them up a little. I just as you don't kill them." The huntress raised an eyebrow. "Most people wouldn't want us to hurt them." Anton gave her a flat look. "We wouldn't be out here if those two idiots hadn't disobeyed orders." "Ah, understood."

The huntress turned away. "Either way, you can wait for your men in a jail cell. The law is the law. Don't try to make this difficult." Anton looked over at Doc Black and nodded, silently telling him to do as they said. No sense in stirring things up further. The hunting party formed a line, the two men in the middle, as they were marched towards the capital.


Post Word Count: 487
Total Word Count: 3,626