[OPitP] One Piece in the Playground: IC Thread [Archive]

View Full Version : [OPitP] One Piece in the Playground: IC Thread

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-04, 12:01 AM

[OPitP] One Piece in the Playground

Wealth. Fame. Power. The man who had acquired everything in the world, the Pirate King, Gold Roger. The final words that were said at his execution sent people to the seas.

“My wealth and treasures? If you want it, I'll let you have it. Look for it, I left all of it at that place!”

Men now, chasing their dreams, head towards the Grand Line. The world now enters a Great Age of Pirates!

OOC Thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=220931)

Chapter 1: The Trials of Midas Island; Going for the Gold!

Midas Island

Basic History: Golden Island was founded and built by its current ruler,Goldoro Midas, who also happens to be the CEO of the Gold Corporation, a financial institution so large that it even has sway with the world government and Tenryubito. The Corporation's headquarters is located on the island, making the whole island completely owned and operated by the Gold Corporation. The residents of Golden Island are merchants who work for the company and enjoy every luxury one could ask for as long as they keep working. There are many visitors to the island: sailors, pirates, marines, and even occasionally a Tenryubito. But because fights on the street are bad for business, the marines and event the Tenryubito are in an agreement with the Gold Corporation to not exercise their normal jurisdictions. The Gold Corporation, being too major a financier of many world powers, even has the power to kill a Tenryubito if they decide to break the agreement, and not even the marines will step in to help or avenge them. The problem most non-marine or non-rich visitors have is that the tariffs, taxes, and docking fees are so outrageously large that it's very easy to rack up a large debt, and no ship is allowed to leave the island unless their debts are paid. Any pirates or the like who think they can just force their way out are in for a nasty surprise...

The Island's Defenses: Midas Island has near infinite resources thanks to the corporation that funds and protects it. Even the Shichibukai and the Admirals know not to cross the place. There's a ten-story-high circular wall with the width of a football field that protects the entire island, consisting of gold-plated tempered steel and Seastone. The gates are large enough that when they're open, traffic can come and go as needed, but when shut, nothing can leave the island, and to date nothing has penetrated the wall. But that's just the outer defenses. The police force of the island consist of the best-trained warriors in the world that money can buy, and money can buy a lot. Most of the police force are trained in at least several aspects of Rokushiki and other martial arts, and are equipped will full seastone armaments, including full body armor, guns with plenty of seastone ammunition, seastone weapons, and seastone nets. Each one has mini Den Den Mushis built into their equipment so that they can communicate with one another, and if an officer is ever knocked unconscious or killed, whether they were aware of the attack or not, the Den Den Mushi immediately contacts all other officers in the area and warns them. Many of the officers have other advanced weaponry, including Dial technology. Furthermore, the police force cannot be bought off or bribed, because they know that their employer can pay them far more than even the Tenryubito. Fortunately, the law is not completely strict, only reacting to major violent outbreaks or attacks on citizens of the island to keep the peace. Most minor infractions simply result in major fines which add to growing debts, and debtors are allowed free reign of the island until they actually steal or attack someone.

Those in Debt: A common theme among visitors to the island is quickly and unwittingly racking up a huge debt due to huge tariffs, taxes, and docking fees. It doesn't help that being in debt costs additional docking fees while your ship is impounded, as well as fines being added to your debt for basic welfare relief (which consist of bread and water being provided to the destitute). Unless you begin to work for the Corporation, at which point you'll still never be able to pay off your debts but the Corporation will provide more amenities, or a miracle happens, the only way for those in debt to pay off their debts is to somehow win one of the annual tournaments (described in further detail below). Even if you are in debt, food and water will be provided to you (at an additional cost which is tacked on to your existing debts) and you are otherwise allowed free reign. Most marines and Tenryubito have any funds they need provided for them by their respective powers, so it's rare for either of those factions to be in this state.

The Seven Tournaments: As a form of entertainment for the residents of Midas Island, once a year there is a week-long festival with a different major tournament each day. If one is lucky enough to win any of the tournaments, they are not only invited to a special banquet at the estate of Goldoro Midas, they are allowed to select one of many prizes. Such prizes include rarities such as Devil Fruits, unique slaves (some of which might have Devil Fruits of their own), artifacts and treasures, or, as a lot of people would want, one of the prizes is to instantly cancel all of a person's debts up to that point plus in the next 24 hours, everything being covered by Goldoro Midas himself. Unfortunately, the tournaments are not only coveted by those in debt, but marines, Tenryubito, and all sorts of powerful people come to these tournaments, entering not only themselves but their crew/servants/slaves as well to earn some of the coveted prizes. Some Tenryubito even purchase and train slaves specifically for these tournaments. For the first three tournaments, Devil Fruit users aren't allowed, and the Tournament Committee has ways of verifying if someone has a Devil Fruit power or not. Seastone weapons are not allowed except for in the Devil Fruit free torunaments where it won't have an effect anyway. The actual tournaments are as follows:

The Trial of Eyes - The first tournament is a marksmanship contest. Contestants are given a variety of targets that they have to hit accurately. Over the contest, the targets are more difficult, becoming smaller, farther away, or moving for more difficult shots. Accuracy and rate of fire are all taken into account. Contestants are not allowed to interfere with others shots.
The Triall of Steel - This is a trial for swordsmen, but all sorts of bladed weapons and variations are allowed as long as the blade itself does not have a Devil Fruit ability.
The Trial of Fists - This is purely hand-to-hand combat. No weapons are allowed, though sometimes people with artificial limbs or cyborg enhancements have been allowed on a case-by-case basis, as it makes for great entertainment.
The Trial of Shadow - Officially this trial doesn't exist, and really only insiders know about it. Officially speaking, this day is supposed to be a day of rest between festivities, but in actuality an entirely different contest is taking place: the only one outside of the Coliseum. Contestants who are signed up are given a "package," usually a slip of paper or something of the like, and have instructions to find other contestants in the game all throughout the island and take their "packages" by any means necessary. Once a certain number is reached, the contestant races to a specific location. The first to reach the place that has fulfilled their objectives wins. The interesting thing about this contest is this is the only contest where you can sign up someone else without their knowing until the contest begins.
The Trial of the Heart - This tournament consists of teams of anywhere from 2 to 5 people. The amount is up to the applicants, but there has to be at least two people. The actual contest itself varies, but it's usually some sort of team sport, not a straight up fight.
The Trial of Beauty - What entertainment palooza would be complete without some excuse to show off beautiful women? This contest is for women only, and mostly involves a swimsuit competition, the most popular girl getting the prize. This particular contest is well-known for the antics and on-stage feuds that tend to happen though.
The Trial of Devils - The final and most popular tournament is a fight between Devil Fruit Users. Anyone with a Devil Fruit or Devil Fruit-enhanced weapon can enter, but some years Logia fruit users aren't allowed since they have so high an advantage. This decision is made on a case-by-case basis.

Locations
The Bazaar: The marketplace makes up the majority of the area that tourists can visit. Merchants set up their stalls all throughout busy, crowded streets. You can buy nearly any luxury you can think of, but only at exorbitant prices. The tariffs and taxes on foreign coin are huge, and even basic necessities can run a normally well-off pirate captain in a few days. Fortunately, it is more than possible and even encouraged to rack up a line of credit, just be wary when the collectors come for their money.

The Golden District: Where the richest of the rich stay. The streets are literally paved with gold, as are the walls, the floors, the sidewalks, the lamp fixtures, the park benches, etcetera. There are numerous luxury hotels and apartment buildings, each carved by the hand of master artisans. It's well separated from the other two districts, as the rich enjoy being away from the poor.

The Silver District: A step down from the Golden District, but still quite luxurious. The majority of the island's visitors can stay here without any want or need. All the luxuries of the world are available here as well, but without the pretentiousness that comes from the residents of the Golden District.

The Copper District: Sometimes all the wealth and glamour in the world doesn't beat the homey feel of an inn and pub and a nice homemade meal. For a more peasant or down-to-earth feel, visit the Copper District. It isn't as pretty as the others, but it's comfortable, and it's cheaper than the other places too. Whereas everywhere else might charge ten times the normal price for basic goods, here they'll only charge five times the normal price. Don't be fooled, you'll go broke just as quickly here.

Blackjack Alley: This infamous part of Midas Island has rows of various casinos, racetracks, and other gambling establishments, each one playing up the spectacle of their attractions more than the last. Whether you're simply lured in by the presentation or you need to try and make some money quick to pay off your debt, Blackjack Alley is the place to waste your money. And wasting it is what you'll do. The house always wins, and whether or not the games are actually rigged, the concept of someone in debt winning enough to pay off their debts here is virtually unheard of. Many have tried, few have succeeded, most simply end up much worse than they were before.

Goldenworld: the Themed Amusement Park: Ferris wheels, roller coasters, carousels, an entire circus even. All sorts of rides and fun attractions await you at Goldenworld provided you can afford the high admission and the individual ticket prices for each ride.

The Slave Auction House: Slavery is not only legal but thriving here, and the Slave Auction House has some of the rarest choice picks in the Grand Line. A lot of poor saps end up here if they can't pay off all their debts. Whether you're a captain with enough coin and you need a new crew member, or you're a world noble in the mood for a new servant, you'll be able to find choice picks here as long as you can afford it.

The Impound: The Impound is the headquarters of the department in charge of impounding ships until their owners can pay off their debts. Technically, the Impound also refers to any dock on the entire island, since they all have the Impounds mechanisms. When the owner of a ship cannot pay their debts or docking fees (which is most everyone who visits), giant seastone pillars are stuck through each porthole of the ship and locked into place on both walls surrounding the ship. Even if one could somehow sever the seastone pillars, the extra weight would just make the ship sink to the bottom of the harbor instantly. The only way to free a ship is a complicated process at the Impound's HQ which requires multiple levels of authorization.

The Commercial Docks: Most likely your ship will dock at one of the many public docks here. It has direct access to the Bazaar and merchants will bombard you with offers right out of the gate, attempting to sucker in new guys whenever possible. Entering or leaving the docks forces you to wade through the crowds of the Bazaar, a process which can leave you broke fairly quickly. There's also very little security protecting your boat besides what you yourself provide.

The Private Docks: If you have a little extra coin (read: a ridiculous amount of extra coin that in no way will ever be enough, you'll just throw yourself into debt that much quicker) you can dock your ship at the Private Docks, a little more separated from the crowds of the Bazaar and each ship has their own private dock building which you can lock up when you leave. Even when your ship is impounded, you're allowed to visit and, if you wish, live on it.

The VIP Docks: If you have business with the Gold Corporation, if you're a high government official, or even a Tenryubito, you'll be docking at the VIP Docks well separated and hidden from the rest of the crowd. There are waves of security guarding the ship night and day to make sure no commoners rob your ship, and you have direct access to all the most luxurious locales of Midas Island.

The Corporate Docks: These are connected directly to the corporate headquarters where the Gold Corporation actually works. Company ships only, and usually these ships export large shipments of gold bars to their customers, financing their operation. These docks are well secluded within the corporate headquarters where no tourists or visitors are allowed.

The Debtor's Prison: When you finally do something to get arrested, you are thrown in the Debtor's Prison, a large underground prison deep beneath the island made completely of seastone from the bars to the walls to the floors. Devil fruit users are in constant fatigue and agony just by being here, and other people find the labrynthine structure of the prison unescapable, even if there wasn't a large squad of heavily armed trained guards to watch it. The only plus side is that most people don't serve life sentences. If they don't off themselves, they work menial, difficult labor (usually some sort of basic manufacturing) and work off a portion of their debt before being let back out onto the island once their sentence is up. Of course, they still retain most of their debt and still have to find a way to pay it off.

The Debtor's Village: When you've finally hit rock bottom and have nowhere else to go, you'll end up in this ragtag collection of cardboard boxes and hastily put up shanties, well out of the way of the paying customers of the island. You'll be provided basic food and water at a huge cost which will only be added to your debt.

The Coliseum: This giant stadium is the main attraction of Midas Island, and that's saying something. It's only used for the annual tournament, a massive event which attracts spectators from across the world. Pirate captains, shichibukai, high-ranking marines, and even Tenryubito train either themselves or their subordinates for years to compete and hopefully win the bragging rights of one of the contests. Independents compete a lot as well, hoping to get noticed by someone rich enough to buy out their debts and get them off the island. The prizes are many and vary each year, from exotic slaves to actual devil fruits, but one prize always remains constant: the choice to instantly wipe out all your debts on the house from your arrival to the island to 24 hours after you get the prize, so you can even go crazy for a little while longer before you leave.

Gold Corporation Headquarters: Several massive buildings make up the corporate headquarters of the international financial giant the Gold Corporation. Typical office and business work goes on here, and employees find themselves paid enough to enjoy the luxuries of the island without racking up a debt, that is as long as they do a good job. The headquarters is tightly guarded from intrusion and is well separated from the tourist areas.

Goldoro Midas's Estate: The entire island belongs to Goldoro Midas, but his personal estate is still large enough that if you woke up on his front porch you wouldn't even be able to see any signs of any other inhabitants on the island except the estate. A solid gold mansion which puts even other mansions to shame, with suprisingly few but very trusted and competent servants. The entire estate is well-guarded and private, the only visitors allowed at Goldoro Midas's personal invitation.

A number of pirate crews have gathered here, baited by the luxuries the island promises, but trapped by neverending debt. The one true chance to rescue themselves and their crew: The Annual Tournament of Midas Island. A week of various tournaments with a host of rare and valuable prizes. Every year the prize pool differs, including Devil Fruits, exotic slaves, rare weapons, and unique items found nowhere else in the world, but the most sought after prize is an instant clearing of one's debts no matter how high. The competition will be high though, as it's not just pirate crews, but high-ranking marines and even Tenryubito who show up and train their subordinates for a chance to win these tournaments. Not only that, but it's rumored that the VIP guests of the Gold Corporation, such as the Vice-Admirals and Tenryubito, get access to special perks to give them even more of an advantage in the game.

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-04, 12:03 AM

It's the day before the tournaments start, and the last day for sign-ups. Booths are gathered all around the giant colisuem, and the lines are large. Three days of tournaments, a day of rest, and then three more days of tournaments, each more popular and extravagant than the last.

It's ironic that the streets, the walls, and near everything were literally paved with gold, yet there were so many broke applicants walking upon them. Even solid gold was near worthless when compared to the exchange rate of currency on the island.

Six tournaments available to sign up for, but if one knew where to look, they could find the mysterious strangers in the corners, who would sign people up for the secretive Trial of Shadow.

AnimeKid

2011-12-04, 12:40 AM

Nigel Zeromus

As the person signing up people for the Tournament of Devils call up the next person in line they get a little shock when two large hands plant themselves on the desk shaking it a little. A boisterious and deep voice then speaks up. "All right then, I'm next. Names Nigel Zeromus a.k.a the future winner of this tournament! Sign me up!" Nigel was a good enough guy and could be charismatic in his own special way. After spending 3 years on a deserted isle and spending another 5 learning how to navigate well enough not to be as*backwards on the sea and building his baby(his ship that is) he decided that some R&R is just what the doctor ordered. Never did he once think that he would end up in deep debt just from spending 2 days here. The drinks here were expensive! But they were so gooooood, let it be known that Nigel was not known for his willpower or thriftyness. However he needed to get his baby out of here and even he wasn't bullheaded enough to go charging blindly into the docks to try to break her out. He would be better off swimming through the sea to try and break into Marine Headquaters. So here he was signing up for the Tournament of Devils and getting psyched up about the abolute manly combat that would no doubt be happening.

Kuroimaken

2011-12-04, 09:19 AM

He shouldn't have let down his comrades like this.

Kohou had heard of how pirates became stranded in this island. But he and his companions had to check it out. One of the Izayoi Pirates mottos was: "never leave a treasure unburied."

This had caused its own share of troubles, of course. As a rule, the Izayoi Pirates never attacked except in self-defense. For the most part, any bounties on them had been posted by disgruntled pirates with ties to the Marines whom they'd fought over treasure. However, the way they saw it, any treasure they went after was theirs, and no one had the right to stand in their way.

So when they heard of a treasure buried on Midas Island... well, they racked up a number of debts between paying off security officials not to arrest crewmembers who were a little overzealous about information-gathering and the time they spent at port.

So now it was up to Kohou to fix this mess.

"Sign me up for the Trial of Fists. That's the way real men fight!"

AnimeKid

2011-12-04, 04:05 PM

(OOC: Um Kuroi, do you know that since Kohou is a devil fruit user he can't participate in Trial of Fist? Or was him getting turned down part of your roleplaying?)

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-04, 05:00 PM

The attendants smile and speak professionally and courteously.

To Nigel Zeromus: "Welcome. Please sign up here. Your name, any rank or affiliation you wish to be identified with, and the name and type of your Devil Fruit please."

To Kohou: "Welcome. Please sign up here. Your name and any rank or affiliation you wish to be identified with. Also, we need to verify that you do not have a Devil Fruit power, so I need you to please grab a hold of this bar." The attendant motions to a small device on the table with a seastone bar hooked up to a sensor, a foolproof way of detecting Devil Fruit users.

AnimeKid

2011-12-04, 05:16 PM

Nigel

Taking the pen and paper Nigel signs his name on the paper. He then signs that he is a captain and is to be affiliated with the Crusher Crew pirates. He then lists that his fruit is the Grav Grav Fruit and is a Paramecia class. After checking to make sure that he filled everything out correctly he hands the information to the attendant.

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-04, 05:45 PM

"Thank you very much. Are there any other tournaments you wish to sign yourself or perhaps one of your crew members up for?"

Kuroimaken

2011-12-04, 06:28 PM

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-04, 06:59 PM

"Wait, I can't participate on the Trial of Fists because I have a Devil Fruit power?" Kohou sounds confused, and then angry. "You think just because I've got special powers that would be cheating?!"

Quick temper, huh?

The attendant's courteous smile never leaves her face, remaining polite all throughout the explanation, as if there was an invincible barrier between her and the raging man in front of her. "Why, yes, in fact. In hand-to-hand combat, nearly any Devil Fruit power would give an unfair advantage over un-powered contestants, and no one wants to see a one-sided battle. If you do have a Devil Fruit power, might I recommend either the Trial of Devils where you can fight with others more your level, or perhaps the Trial of Heart if you can find one or more partners."

AnimeKid

2011-12-04, 07:03 PM

Nigel

He gives a quick thank you to the attendent. As he prepares to leave he hears Kohou. He then lets out a loud boisterous laugh as he loudly says, "Well if you want to fight so badly why not sign up here for the Tournament of Devils. I would love to fight an opponent with as much fire in their belly as you." He is honestly grinning like a maniac at the thought of fighting someone like Kohou. He doesn't even know how strong he is, only that he is hot-blooded. Nigel would love to fight an opponent like that regardless of how strong they are.

Mindfreak

2011-12-04, 07:11 PM

Admiral Preppa
Admiral Preppa, the famous Marine-Girl, strides up to the booth, her uniform's jacket on her shoulders with a marine cap on her head.
"I wish to sign up for the Trial of Beauty please." she said as she smiled at the sign-up person.
She was wearing a black t-shirt underneath with the word: Marine on it and a pair of jeans.
She had a pair of gloves with little lenses on the tips at her hips as well.

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-04, 07:20 PM

The normally courteous girl blushes as she looks up in surprise. Apparently, she was a fan. "A-admiral! It's surprising to see you here among the layfolk. Yes, of course I will sign you up right away. Would you like to sign up for any other tournaments as well? Also, would you like me to call an escort for you? At the moment, VIP guests are invited to Goldoro Midas's estate."

Kuroimaken

2011-12-04, 07:30 PM

The attendant's courteous smile never leaves her face, remaining polite all throughout the explanation, as if there was an invincible barrier between her and the raging man in front of her. "Why, yes, in fact. In hand-to-hand combat, nearly any Devil Fruit power would give an unfair advantage over un-powered contestants, and no one wants to see a one-sided battle. If you do have a Devil Fruit power, might I recommend either the Trial of Devils where you can fight with others more your level, or perhaps the Trial of Heart if you can find one or more partners."

"If I were an un-powered contestant, I'd take offense to that. And really, it doesn't seem right. I'm a martial artist. I can fight without using my powers, you know." Kohou replies with honesty.

"My crewmates are already signing up for the Trial of Hearts. I don't mind having to settle for the Trial of Devils if that's what it takes, I suppose. HOWEVER!!"

Loud noise as he slams his foot down.

"Let it be known that I, Kohou Izayoi, am OUTRAGED at being left out of a contest of fisticuffs, for whatever reason!!"

Mindfreak

2011-12-04, 07:34 PM

Admiral Preppa
Preppa smiled.
"Depends, what kind of competition for the Trial of Devils this year?" she said as she raised her fist and clenched it.
"Because I doubt there's someone here who could take me on, but what do you think?" she said as she leaned forward onto the table and looked the attendant in the eyes, showing off her...assets.
"And don't bother about the escort, I'll get there myself soon enough."

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-04, 07:49 PM

"Your complaint will be noted and addressed by the correct department." The attendant bowed respectfully at Kohou.

Admiral Preppa
Preppa smiled.
"Depends, what kind of competition for the Trial of Devils this year?" she said as she raised her fist and clenched it.
"Because I doubt there's someone here who could take me on, but what do you think?" she said as she leaned forward onto the table and looked the attendant in the eyes, showing off her...assets.
"And don't bother about the escort, I'll get there myself soon enough."

"I think you would honor the spectators of the tournament with a display of your abilities, Admiral. As for the competition, there are at least a dozen pirate crews of varying strengths, about half of which are repeat contenders from last year. On top of that, not including yourself, there are five other vice-admirals representing the marines with their crews, and three Tenryubito who have visited the island specifically to test out some of their specially trained servants in the games.

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-04, 07:53 PM

Vice Admiral Arlene

A sigh sounds from behind Preppa. Her subordinate has found her.

Admiral, do you really have to join these games?

Arlene wears her usual outfit, complete with swords. Her expression doesn't show much, like usual. But, Preppa should be able to pick up on the slight amount of disappointment there.

Captain Talina

A woman with golden hair approaches a sign-up table. She starts looking over the lists, seeing what the tournaments are. Finally, she nods to herself, as if making a decision.

Hey, this Trial of Heart...do you have to come with a team? Or can you just sign up and wait to get assigned to one?

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-04, 08:01 PM

Captain Talina

A woman with golden hair approaches a sign-up table. She starts looking over the lists, seeing what the tournaments are. Finally, she nods to herself, as if making a decision.

Hey, this Trial of Heart...do you have to come with a team? Or can you just sign up and wait to get assigned to one?

"The brackets aren't decided until the day of the tournament, so if you need to, you can recruit your team later as long as you register your information here. As long as you have at least two team members the day of the trial."

Mindfreak

2011-12-04, 08:01 PM

Admiral Preppa
"Sounds like some good competition! I should sign up my sub-ordinate!"
Then she hears the sigh and she stops leaning on the table and showing off her assets.
"Dearest Arlene, I'm simply going to participate in the Trial of Beauty, which you'll be joining me in as well."
She winked at the attendant.
"Don't you think she'll make a beautiful addition to the contest?"

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-04, 08:07 PM

Vice Admiral Arlene

Arlene sighs again. She knew it was no use arguing. Might as well make the best of it.

Fine. But, if you're going to make me do that, then I'm doing one that I want. Put me down for the Trial of Steel.

Captain Talina

Talina nods. Okay...but what if I sign up, and I can't find anybody? Do you take single people like that and shove them into a group or two?

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-04, 08:12 PM

Captain Talina

Talina nods. Okay...but what if I sign up, and I can't find anybody? Do you take single people like that and shove them into a group or two?

"If that ends up being the case, then you will be disqualified. We do not offer any such services, so you'd better find a team before the day of the Trial."

Mindfreak

2011-12-04, 08:16 PM

Vice Admiral Arlene

Arlene sighs again. She knew it was no use arguing. Might as well make the best of it.

Fine. But, if you're going to make me do that, then I'm doing one that I want. Put me down for the Trial of Steel.
Admiral Preppa
Preppa smiled and laughed.
"That's the spirit!" she said as she went to pat her vice-admiral on the back.
"Put Arlene down for the Trial of Steel and Trial of Beauty, please."
She then looked at Arlene's clothing.
"Oh, our current clothes simply won't do! Attendant, do you know where we could get something to really impress the judges around here?"

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-04, 08:22 PM

Vice Admiral Arlene

Arlene's expression still doesn't change. But, inwardly, she rolls her eyes.

Great. Another shopping trip with the Admiral.

Captain Talina

Talina finally shrugs. Eh, guess we'll just see what happens then. Let me go with...the last three. Heart, Beauty, and Devils.

Captain Talina, by the way. Devil Fruit powers being... She raises a hand, and her fingers grow longer and sharpen into claws. The Claw-Claw Fruit. Paramecia type.

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-04, 08:50 PM

The attendant processes the Admiral's subordinate as well, including testing her for Devil Fruit powers. "The Trial of Beauty is typically a swimsuit competition. The most important thing there is to either wear or do something to catch the eye of the judges over the other contestants."

"Very well, Captain Talina. You have been entered in each contest. Good luck with the tournament."

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-04, 08:57 PM

Vice Admiral Arlene

Arlene shows negative on having powers.

She also gives off a vibe of being somebody who'd rather jump off a cliff than parade around in a swimsuit.

But, she'd rather not try to argue with her commander about it.

Captain Talina

Thanks. She turns away from the table and looks around. She sees Preppa and Arlene a short distance away, and cringes a little.

Ehh, Marines. Better walk in the opposite direction.

Mindfreak

2011-12-05, 05:16 AM

Vice Admiral Arlene

Arlene shows negative on having powers.

She also gives off a vibe of being somebody who'd rather jump off a cliff than parade around in a swimsuit.

But, she'd rather not try to argue with her commander about it.
Admiral Preppa
"Thanks for helping us out, ma'am." she said to the attendant, blowing her a little kiss.
She then turned and began walking towards the Bazaar!
"Come on, Arlene! Let's go get some hot bathing suits!"

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-05, 12:00 PM

Vice Admiral Arlene

Arlene gives a small nod, then turns to follow her commander, her hands resting on the gilts of her swords.

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-05, 01:16 PM

The Slave Auction House

"All right, let's get these guys separated. President Midas wants the choice picks ready as soon as possible, and the rest need to be ready for auction!" The foreman looked over his list of high-priced slaves to be handed over to his employer. The biggest catch monetarily speaking was a mermaid they'd managed to capture who needed extra restraints. This one was putting up a fight. On top of that, they about six or seven fishmen and about as many Devil Fruit users, all of which were going to the President's personal storehouse until they were ready to be doled out as prizes. He glanced at one of the Devil Fruit users, a small dark-skinned girl looking malnourished, "Hey, what's the big idea!" he yelled at the nearest employee, "You can't bust up the merchandise like that!" "Sorry, sir, we tried feeding her and she somehow broke free of her shackles. She killed three men before we could restrain her again, sir!" The foreman sighed. One could never judge a devil fruit user by their appearance. "All right, just try and get her patched up before someone sees her face. Put extra restraints on her if you have to." The employee nodded and continued filing the slaves. "Now I've got to get the regular auction ready." The day before the tournamnent always had a huge turnout, mostly people like the Tenryubito looking for prospective slaves to win the tournament for them.

AnimeKid

2011-12-05, 01:51 PM

Nigel

After his declaration at Kohou Nigel heads of in the direction of the bazaar. He really couldn't afford much, but he could look around. After all there was always something new at the bazaar. There were also several ladies just waiting to be swooned by him. With a big grin on his face he walks off at a sedated pace towards the bazaar leaving slight cracks and indentions in the ground from the fact that he is applying 2.5 times gravity to himself right now. He could wine, dine, and romance while still training! How awesome is that!

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-05, 02:04 PM

The Bazaar

Although she didn't like leaving the ship, someone had to restock the medical supplies, and no one else could really pronounce the names. Captain Talina told her she couldn't bring her pets, but surely no one would mind if she just brought one? The pet tiger almost as large as Felicia was even on a leash. She'd already learned that nothing was cheap here, but these were necessities and the Captain had already racked up enough of a debt already. Most people gave the large tiger a wide berth, who in turn seemed to be content just to lay next to Felicia as she made her transactions, giving a low, lazy growl to any men that dared venture close enough to Felicia.

AnimeKid

2011-12-05, 02:38 PM

Nigel

He was walking through the Bazaar not really paying attention to where he was going. He had saw a woman that had some scars on her face, however scars didn't make someone inherently unattractive. He smiled as he approached her, but stops when he hears growls. Looking down he sees a large tiger growling at him. Rather than back off the beast that everyone was giving a wide berth to instead his smile gets much bigger than it was before. He then walks towards the tiger and says, "Well aren't you a magnificent beast. Powerful, graceful, and most of all deadly. The pirate of the jungle I would say. A creature such as you could easily tear a man to pieces!" There is a hint of excitement in his voice as he says all of this. He looks at the beast with the respect of a fellow warrior. "You would be an opponent that I would gladly face in battle." He then looks at the woman who is probably staring at the man that he talking to the tiger which is probably still growling at him and might be preparing to take his throat out. Instead of fearing for his life he says, "Yo, might I know the name of this lovely maiden that I see along with the name of this magnificent creature?"

Mindfreak

2011-12-05, 02:57 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Bazaar
Admiral Preppa immediately gives a squeeee of happiness as she sees a part of The Bazaar that has bathing suits.
She immediately holds up this one (http://danielleuniverse.files.wordpress.com/2010/05/bandeau-top.jpg) for Arlene to see.
"What do you think, Arlene? Do you think I'll win in this?"

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-05, 03:07 PM

Felicia

"And I'll need this much amoxicillin and also 15 grams of..." At that point, the tiger decided Nigel got a little too close and got back up, growling more loudly at him than at the other pedestrians in the bazaar. Many vendors and customers jumped at the sight of the cat with a mouth large enough to take off a head in one bite growl in Nigel's face. Felicia had to rear back on the leash to make sure the tiger didn't maul someone, "Down, Hualin-chan!" she frantically commanded the tiger.

AnimeKid

2011-12-05, 03:21 PM

Nigel

Instead of being intimidated like any other sane man would be Nigel...simply laughs. He laughs boisterously as he says, Yep! That there is a fighter all right. Just the right amount of ferocity and spunk. Well it seems that you don't like my presence, Hualin was it? I guess I should be moving on then. Chou Hualin! Hahaha!" With that he walks away, known as the man who laughed in the face of a tiger... what a f*cken idiot.

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-05, 05:06 PM

Vice Admiral Arlene - The Bazaar

Arlene looks at the suit for a moment, then shrugs.

Maybe, but I can't say for sure. At this point, it might be a good idea to see who else is competing.

Captain Talina - The Bazaar

Hearing people speaking of a scarred woman with a tiger in the bazaar, Talina knew her doctor was here. And she knew that she just found a partner for the Trial of Heart.

She finally spots the pair. With a grin, she walks right up to Hualin and starts scratching behind his ears. Aw, who's a good tiger?

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-05, 05:16 PM

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-05, 05:27 PM

Talina smiles. Good. Signed up for three of them. Gotta get a good swimsuit for one.

Then she gets a wry grin. One of them's a team event. Need at least two people.

You busy tomorrow, Felicia?

Mindfreak

2011-12-05, 05:58 PM

Vice Admiral Arlene - The Bazaar

Arlene looks at the suit for a moment, then shrugs.

Maybe, but I can't say for sure. At this point, it might be a good idea to see who else is competing.
Admiral Preppa - The Bazaar
"Maybe it is a good idea to do that...but that'll be for later when sign ups are over." she says as she holds the bathing suit in front of her while admiring herself in a nearby mirror.
"Do you see any bathing suits you like, Arlene?"

Kuroimaken

2011-12-05, 06:20 PM

The tiger, growling almost seconds before at a stranger, instantly switches attitudes and purrs at Captain Talina's touch, being scratched in just the right place. Hualin licks Talina's arm with its large, sandpaper-like tongue, calm again for now, but that didn't stop the people around the bazaar from eyeing the tiger warily and keeping their distance. "C-captain!" Felicia manages to say flustered, not at her captain's sudden arrival, but at the stranger who had come, riled Hualin up, and left so suddenly. "How did the sign-ups go?"

Right about then, a black cat strolled by. It didn't look like a typical stray, most notably from the fact its fur had no flaws and looked neatly brushed, but the cat seemed to have no collar either.

The animal walked up to the woman scratching behind the tiger's ears, sat down and meowled, almost as if it was... curious.

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-05, 06:36 PM

"Tomorrow? I doubt I'll be busy, what with us being impounded and all. Why do you ask?" Felicia asked nervously.

Then the small, black cat walked up and mewled, causing Felicia to go into cuteness overload. She instantly squatted down, mesmerized by the little black cat that had approached them. If Hualin would have minded, she didn't show it since she was still purring from Talina's scratching.

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-05, 06:48 PM

Vice Admiral Arlene

Arlene shakes her head. No, not really.

Course, she doesn't seem to be putting much effort into looking.

Captain Talina

Talina sighs and shakes her head. Felicia and her obsession with cute things...

With the hand not scratching Hualin, Talina taps the doctor on the head. Hellooo...Earth to Felicia. I'm asking you to sign up with me on the team event.

Kuroimaken

2011-12-05, 06:51 PM

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-05, 06:56 PM

Unfortunately for Talina, her doctor was completely mesmerized by the cat's behavior. Instantly, Felicia was petting the cat, cuddling it, and giving it treats from her coat pocket, a look of pure bliss on her face, "Kawaii-desu-nee~!"

Kuroimaken

2011-12-05, 07:02 PM

At some point, the kitty warms up enough to her to let itself be picked up, cuddling warmly up against her and mischieviously licking her on the lips and face.

It's a good thing she can't notice how, underneath the fur, the kitty is blushing.

Mindfreak

2011-12-05, 07:54 PM

Vice Admiral Arlene

Arlene shakes her head. No, not really.

Course, she doesn't seem to be putting much effort into looking.
Admiral Preppa - The Bazaar
Preppa suddenly squeegees with delight again as she finds another bathing suit!
She holds up this bathing suit. (http://www.giftag.com/clip/jack-larry/black-sexy-bathing-suit-swimwear-sexy-swimwear-zaphoncom-clip.jpg)
"Since you can't find any you like, what about this one?"

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-05, 08:14 PM

Vice Admiral Arlene

Arlene looks over the bathing suit for a moment, then nods.

Sure. This'll cover any body scars I might get the day before.

Captain Talina

Talina sighs again, shaking her head a little. The she plops down onto the ground next to Hualin.

Great. I'm gonna be here all week now.

Mindfreak

2011-12-05, 08:52 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Bazaar
Preppa got both bathing suits in aqua blue with the word Marine on them in white.
She handed Arlene her bag and had her own in her hand.
"So, I guess we should go make an appearance at Midas' place...after a bit more shopping! I'm on my last Marine shirt!"

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-05, 08:58 PM

Vice Admiral Arlene

Arlene takes her bag. I keep telling you to be careful with those. You go through them like they were made of paper.

AnimeKid

2011-12-05, 09:05 PM

Nigel

A voice comes from behind Preppa and Arlene and says, "Ah, contestants for the Tournament of Beauty I see. Very nice choices. I look forward to seeing if you two win." When they look to the person who engaged them in conversation they see a rather burly man who is 6'3 and has dark skin and blond hair that has been bleached to a near white by spending so much time in the sun. It comes down to his neck and is slicked back to keep it out of his eyes He is rather well muscled, much like a body builder and wears a five rings on each of his right hands fingers. His muscles tend to bulge under his clothes which consist of an open black vest that his chest and abs along with a white under shirt. He wears black pants that flare out a little at the bottom and wears steel toed combat boots. He has an X shaped scare covering his forehead. After the statement he turns back to the cloths rack muttering to himself "Maybe I should get an eye-patch? Nah that would be stupid. What about a spiked bracelet?"

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-05, 09:39 PM

Mindfreak

2011-12-05, 09:40 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Bazaar
"Well, the training we do always makes my shirts rip! You really keep me on my toes, Arlene!"
Then: Nigel!
Admiral Preppa, who's wearing her Marine Jacket over her shoulders with her Marine Cap on her head and a black shirt with the word: Marine on it in white.
She's one of the more famous of the Admirals, showing up places some wouldn't expect an Admiral to go to.
Like the current island for example.
"Now who might you be, Mister Stud?" she said to Nigel curiously.

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-05, 09:59 PM

Vice Admiral Arlene

Arlene turns to face Nigel as well. With her being more than a foot shorter than him, she looks up at his face. She also wears a Marine jacket over her shoulders, as well as white pants, a pair of belts with her swords hanging on each side, and a black sports bra.

Arlene is known as well, and not just for being with the Admiral. Her sword skills are enough to make many know her name.

She simply waits for Nigel's reply.

Captain Talina

Talina starts laughing at the situation.

I think somebody got jealous, Felicia!

AnimeKid

2011-12-05, 10:01 PM

Mindfreak

2011-12-06, 05:33 AM

Nigel

Huh, he was really unobservant, he noted to himself. He didn't even notice the cloths on the woman that screamed MARINE! Well at least they couldn't start a fight here. Plus she was still hot, all he had to do was not mention or give any indication that he was a pirate captain and this little interaction wouldn't go sour. Being stranded or shipwright and navigation training for the last 8 years left Nigel a little out of touch with the world. So put out his had to shake hers as he says, "Nigel Zeromus, and who might the stunning woman in front of me be?"
Admiral Preppa - The Bazaar
Admiral Preppa shakes his hand enthusiastically!
"I'm Admiral Preppa Olinozaku of the Marines and this is my Vice-Admiral, Arlene." she said as she pointed at Arlene.
"Now that I've told you my name why don't you tell me yours?"

Kuroimaken

2011-12-06, 07:37 AM

"You're a cute little girl, aren't you, kitty cat? Yes you are!" No one stops Felicia from loving on the little kitty-cat, and she probably would've gone at it all week... until Felicia brought out the bag of treats, and Hualin noticed she was not receiving petting or treats, and that disgrace would not stand. Hualin pounced on the black cat, not lethally of course, just enough to bat it out of the way and get at some of those delicious cat treats. "Hualin!" Felicia said surprised.

It is a little surprising, in all likelihood, when the black cat doesn't really budge out of the way. It holds a paw up to bat away Hualin's own in a movement that doesn't really resemble animalistic reaction - not on a cat, anyway. The kitty-cat stares up into the tiger's eyes, and though it makes no show of defensiveness, the tiger might just feel... a little threatened.

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-06, 09:19 AM

The tiger is too focused on the treats and Felicia is still dazed from the cuteness overload of the tiger 'playing' with the black kitty. Hualin tries for the treats given to the black cat once again, playfully wrestling with it if she needs to. "Caaaaptaaaain~ Can we keep her~?" Felicia purred in a sing-song voice.

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-06, 09:53 AM

Vice Admiral Arlene

Arlene gives a short nod when her name is given, then simply waits again.

Captain Talina

Talina is still laughing. But, through it, she nods. Yeah, sure, if you want.

AnimeKid

2011-12-06, 10:01 AM

Nigel

Nigel grins widely as he responds, "As I said before my name is Nigel Zeromus, man of the sea!" With his introduction done, and him thinking it would have been better if he were on a rock that had a huge wave breaking against it with him in a pose, He looks at the Marine woman and can clearly see the muscles on her from hard training and years of experience. That was hard work in it's most pure form, rising from the bottom to the top. If there was one thing he respected about Marines it was that. He grin still plastered on his face he says, "An Admiral you say? Well it is an honor to be in the presence of a beautiful yet powerful woman like yourself. It must have taken you years of hard work to achieve such standing and strength." When he says it he is not being demeaning. In fact he seems to have some admiration and comradie in he eyes and tone. Remembering not to be rude he holds his hand out for Arlene to shake as well.

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-06, 10:30 AM

Felicia moves to pick up the black cat and hug it against her chest. "I'm going to feed you and cuddle you and love you and call you Persephone because you're a cute little princess."

Kuroimaken

2011-12-06, 10:37 AM

The kitty doesn't seem to mind the cuddling, but at the mention of "Persephone", the little animal hisses loudly and shakes its head as if it understood human language.

Apparently, the cat is male and proud of it.

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-06, 10:59 AM

Felicia still seems to be oblivious as she takes the kitty in her arms and skips back toward the ship, "...and I have catnip and toys and a laser pointer and you can play with all the other kitties..." Hualin shakes her head a bit and then rubs her head under Talina's arm.

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-06, 11:41 AM

Captain Talina

Talina gives another laugh, stands back up, and resumes scratching behind Hualin's ears.

Come on, girl. Let's go make sure the doctor doesn't get too crazy.

She will follow Felicia.

Kuroimaken

2011-12-06, 03:24 PM

Mindfreak

2011-12-06, 04:12 PM

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-06, 04:13 PM

Felicia froze, her moment of vulnerability leaving her completely stunned and paralyzed at the cat yelling at her. If Hualin could think human thoughts, she'd be kicking herself for not noticing something off sooner. The tiger immediately shifted to protector mode and leapt at the cat, knocking her out of Felicia's hands.

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-06, 04:29 PM

Orzel

2011-12-06, 07:19 PM

Inkwell

After a long and boring walk from the VIP docks to the Trial signup area, Inkwell finally found where he was supposed to be. His dark orange braids flapped around to the lax movement of his walk as he approached to the person taking names. "Is this where I go to cut people?" he said with his barely interested eyes. "Because this is where the flyer said to go and my superiors said I was supposed to come to this island."

AnimeKid

2011-12-06, 08:23 PM

Nigel shrugs as she asks him about being a man of the sea. (sorry I forgot his speaking color was purple. I didn't want to be confused.)"Eh, just a title I made for myself. I used to be a runt, was even the smallest and weakest of all my brothers, even my sisters. Well I got tired of it and went off on my own to train. For 4 long years I braved the sea and all of its challenges. Okay mostly I was drifting and getting lucky. Eventually my luck ran out and I shipwrecked on a deserted isle. I braved that isle for three years. I even once wrestled a shark and after getting it to it fed me for a good week."
He smiles fondly as he remembers the time. The look on his face leaves no doubt that he is telling the truth, though it might be a little disturbing that he seems to be remembering it as a good time rather than a fearful one.

After reminiscing for a while he continues, "Well after a while of surviving on the island, the last day if I recall correctly, I was starving when I found a wierd fruit. Being starved as I was I gobbled it in one bite. It was only after that I found out it was a Devil Fruit. So I technically don't count as a man of the sea anymore, but I'm not gonna let that stop me!" As he finishes he flashes his gigawatt smile again.

Kuroimaken

2011-12-06, 08:29 PM

Captain Talina

Talina also stares in shock. Though, she doesn't freeze up like Felicia did.

Instead, she walks to where the cat lands and goes to pick him up by the back of his neck.

So... Talina looks him in the eyes. Are you actually a cat? Or are you a Zoan-type?

"Couple of hundred years too early, kitty-chan." The cat replied to the tiger. Surprisingly enough, despite him using a human's language, the tiger would find she could understand him.

"And you care because, pretty lady? If I'm a talking cat, I'm worth a bundle and you've got me by the scruff. If I'm a Zoan, then I'm nothing special and you're gonna drop me anyway. If I leave you wondering, you have to stick with me until you reach a decision." The cat put bluntly. "I was quite enjoying the attention, you know. But my pride as a male is something I don't forsake easily.

Would you please put me down at least? This position is uncomfortable."

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-06, 08:34 PM

Mindfreak

2011-12-06, 08:35 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Bazaar
"Okay."
She then checked her watch.
"Ugh, we should probably be getting to Midas' soon..."
She goes over to another stall quickly and gets plenty of shirts with the word Marine on them.
And when she came back she smiled.
"Wanna come with us to Midas' place? We need to go make an appearance there."

Kuroimaken

2011-12-06, 08:44 PM

Captain Talina

Actually... Talina brings him a little closer. He might notice that she suddenly has fangs instead of normal teeth. If I'm wondering, I might get bored and make my own decision.

Then she puts him down, and her teeth are normal again. At least give us your name. Unless you'd like me calling you "cat" all the time.
The mischievious cat just reaches out to lick the tip of her nose instead. He doesn't seem frightened so much as amused.
"Thanks, sweetheart. Name's Kohou. What's your name and that of your cat-loving friend?"

AnimeKid

2011-12-06, 08:45 PM

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-06, 08:46 PM

Captain Talina

Captain Talina Kirishi. And this is my animal loving doctor, Felicia Knight. She nods to Felicia.

Kuroimaken

2011-12-06, 08:56 PM

"Pleased to meet ya, sweetheart." He had this annoying little tone to his voice that suggested getting angry at his antics would be a waste of energy. "You a cat lover too?"

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-06, 08:59 PM

Captain Talina

Talina jerks a thumb in Hualin's direction. You think I'd let her stay on my ship if I wasn't?

Vice Admiral Arlene

Arlene raises an eyebrow to Preppa, but doesn't question her commander's decision.

However, she will keep an eye on this guy for now.

Mindfreak

2011-12-06, 09:03 PM

Nigel

He looks surprised by Preppa's invitation. He didn't think that he had made that much of an impression. Smiling widely again, though not nearly as big as before he says, "Well how could I refuse such an invitation from such a beautiful woman? I would love to Admiral Preppa."
Admiral Preppa - The Bazaar -> Midas' Place
Admiral Preppa smiles still.
"Good! Because if you didn't agree I would have tied you up and thrown you over my shoulder." she says with a laugh, silently vowing that if this man made things turn out badly she'd kill him.
She then tries going to Midas' Place!

Kuroimaken

2011-12-06, 09:04 PM

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-06, 09:09 PM

Captain Talina

She shrugs. Eh, no biggie. I think she'll forgive you.

Kuroimaken

2011-12-06, 09:15 PM

"Don't think her big friend will be as forgiving though." He noted, looking sideways at Hualin. "Not that I'm worried."

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-06, 09:22 PM

Talina waves a hand. Bah, she's just over protective of Felicia. And a little jealous that you were getting all the attention.

Kuroimaken

2011-12-06, 09:47 PM

Talina waves a hand. Bah, she's just over protective of Felicia. And a little jealous that you were getting all the attention.

"I guess. So, you're a captain, right? You don't look like a Marine. Which trials are you taking?"

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-06, 09:51 PM

Talina gives a fake offended look. A Marine? Ha! Like I'd be one of those stuck-up losers.

I'm in the last three. The Heart one, the Beauty one, and the Devil one.

Orzel

2011-12-06, 10:36 PM

(I'll change Inkwell to italics since bold is taken)

Inkwell

Inkwell was informed that he was in the right place and signed up for the Trial of Steel. So much fun he had in scribing his signature so elegantly, he signed up fir the Trial of Fist as well. This was despite his only mediocre had to hand ability.

Inkwell even tried to sign up for the Trial of Beauty but he was halted by the man at the booth. He simply shifted of not being female and walked away, both hands behind his head.

A short walk and shopping trip sent him into the Bazaar with a large pad of paper. Inkwell found a barrelled to sit on and took off his white suit jacket to keep it clean (and keeping his vice admiral status). It was painting time. "Hey you? Stop moving so I can paint you."

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-06, 11:18 PM

The attendant nods to Inkwell. "The Trial of Steel might be what you're looking for. It's on the second day of the tournament and is meant for swordsmen and other users of similar weapons."

----------

Felicia stands frozen at the sight of the talking cat. Hualin stands between her and Kouhou in a protective state, snarling. "T-Talking... N-neko-ch-chan..." she stammers out. Suddenly, her mood shifts, her face becoming blank, "I need to buy medicine... amoxicillin... neosporin... penicillin..." she takes the gathered items and starts walking back to the pride with a blank look on her face.

---------

The walk from the city to the Midas Estate is so long that the city can't even be heard by the time you reach the gates. A giant golden wall surrounded the gate with a giant golden barred gate serving as the only entrance. At first, it seems like no one is there to man the gate.

Mindfreak

2011-12-07, 05:40 AM

Midas' Place
Admiral Preppa gives a mighty yell.
"I AM ADMIRAL PREPPA OLINOZAKU AND I'VE COME HERE BECAUSE I WAS INVITED!"

Kuroimaken

2011-12-07, 09:01 AM

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-07, 09:35 AM

The Midas Estate

Suddenly, there is a well-dressed, black-suited, black-gloved man at the gates. There was no sign of his approach, not even the usual whoosh one might get from Soru. He just appeared in the blink of an eye. "Good day, Admiral Preppa Olinozaku. I trust your shopping experience was pleasurable?" The man bowed as he opened a much smaller door within the golden barred gate, one for normal-sized people to enter. "And a good day to you too, Arlene Runsio. Captain Nigel Zeromus, it is a surprise to see you here as well, but if the admiral wishes to invite you as well then welcome. I am the butler, Bartholomew. I shall attend to your needs during your time here. Walk this way if you please." Bartholomew walked along the winding path up to the mansion.

AnimeKid

2011-12-07, 09:37 AM

Nigel

Looking down at Preppa he smiles to himself as the woman had done exactly as he would have. This was looking better and better by the minute. He could only wonder though what would happen when she found out he was a pirate. Too bad she would probably try to have his guts. After all he may not be well known, but he was still a 'new age pirate' meaning that he was mostly in this for One Piece and the promise of adventure. A brute he may be, but a sadist or cruel pirate he was not.

When the butler comes down and call him captain he flashes another gigawatt smile at the man. On the inside however...Sh*t, sh*t, sh*t! I can only hope that this won't blow up in my face much earlier that I anticipated! He then starts following the butler, prepared for the barrage of questions that will be inevitably coming.

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-07, 11:18 AM

Vice Admiral Arlene

Arlene gives a nod towards Bartholomew, her way of a greeting. When Nigel is referred to as a captain, her eyes narrow slightly at him, and her hands tighten a little around her swords. However, she does not attack. Yet.

Captain Talina

Talina chuckles. Yeah, she's a strange one. Good doctor, though.

When he mentions going back to his ship, Talina gives him a knowing look. I knew it.

Yeah, I should probably follow her. Adios!

Mindfreak

2011-12-07, 02:34 PM

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-07, 03:08 PM

The Midas Estate

Bartholomew shows the trio up to the estate manor: a huge golden mansion so large even a giant could fit comfortably aside. It put even marine headquarters to shame, and this was just the residence of one man. If one managed to get lost in those hallways, they might die of thirst or starvation before they could get out. "Right this way please. I believe this is the first time you've graced us with your presence, Admiral. Forgive me if I am telling you something you already know, but I feel compelled to remind you that, while you are our honored guest, rank and status are null and void here on Midas Island. I only mention this because some of the Vice-Admirals staying here as well have taken this to heart. While they may report to you anywhere else in the world, here they may forget their military rank and position." Bartholomew holds ridiculously ornate, hand-carved door open for the trio, leading them inside. The hallways are adorned with various artworks, jewels, and other masterpieces, but are otherwise devoid of life. He leads them inside a candlelit ballroom where the manor's other guests are. Over a dozen large tables fill the room, eight of which were currently occupied by their own crew. Five of which were Vice-Admirals and their subordinates and, just as Bartholomew warned, they acknowledged the Admiral's presence, but only as a rival in the competitions ahead. No one saluted or stood at attention. Three of the tables had different sorts of people, occupied by members of the Tenryubito from different families, surrounded by their collar-wearing slaves. In the center of the room were several large pits where certain people practiced their fighting skills against each other. "Please, sit at any empty table you wish. Master Midas will be with you all shortly. If there is any way I can serve you, please do not hesitate to call upon me."

Near the Docks of The Pride

"Heart rate lowering... Blood pressure returning to normal... Anxiety subsiding..." Felicia took a deep breath. "I think I'm better now. I'm sorry, Captain. It was just a bit of shock. I should be fine now."

AnimeKid

2011-12-07, 04:06 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate
As they follow the butler, she'll try to grasp Nigel's wrist so tightly it's painful.
She'll then try to bring him closer.
"You ruin a single thing here and I'll gut you like a fish, got me?"
She then lets go and continues following the butler.

Nigel smiles as she does so. her grip is painful. Nigel prided himself upon his body and how he had managed to condition it. For a man who was like a walking juggernaut to feel pain, what a woman. Taking the pain in stride he whispers in her ear, "Don't worry my lady. I will be sure not to become intoxicated if they have drink here. I know how to behave myself when I need to. Besides, it would be rude to embarrass the beautiful woman who was thoughtful enough to bring me here."
When they reach the interior room Nigel tenses for a moment from all of the Marine's in there but soon relaxes. After all Preppa had been pleasant enough hadn't she? Then...he sees the fighting pits. His eyes becoming wide and flaming he turns to Preppa with a puppy dog look on his face looking back between her and the pits. It doesn't really suit a man of his size but it is effective, plus he is making it rather obvious what he is asking permission for.

Mindfreak

2011-12-07, 04:28 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate
Admiral Preppa still salutes to the Vice-Admirals.
Not out of habit, not to screw with their minds, but because she's an Admiral of the Marines through and through. Not saluting would have been saying that she was unworthy of being an Admiral in her opinion.
She then caught Nigel's look.
"Fine, go fight in one of those pits. Arelene, you're with me." shesaid as she sat down at an empty table.

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-07, 05:30 PM

Vice Admiral Arlene

Arlene follows Prepos's lead, saluting as well. And she does it for much the same reasons.

She nods to Prepos's request, and also looks around the room, taking in everything. She keeps her hands behind her back instead of on her swords.

Captain Talina

Talina smiles. That's fine. As long as you don't do it when we get into the Trial of Heart.

AnimeKid

2011-12-07, 05:53 PM

Nigel

His eyes light up and he is ecstatic. Giving Preppa a brief bone crushing hug he heads off to the pits. Getting to the edge he braces his feet and jumps into the the pit. When he lands multiple cracks show up in the ground from the fact that gravity is currently 2.5x heavier on him. He then straightens up and grins madly as he says, "Alright then! Who wants to take on Nigel Zeromus, Man of the Sea?!"

Mina Kobold

2011-12-08, 07:38 AM

Benjamin DuChêne

At the sign-up for the tournament, a young pirate is reading a list of rules, seemingly eager to test his skill, until...

"No Devie powers? But-Oh hey! I can join this!"

The wide-eyed youngster, stranded on the island as his temporary captain had gotten quite a debt on loans from Midas, skips up to the sign-up itself.

"One for Trial of Devils! Sounds like an excellent challenge!"

The attendant might get a agging feeling that the cheery, innocently courageous kid is doomed.

Then again, maybe he actully have a monstrous and terrifying Devil Fruit power?

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-08, 10:05 AM

Registration

"Name, Affiliation, and Devil Fruit Type please."

Near the Docks of the Pride

"Don't worry, Captain, I'll be fine," it took a few moments for the double take, "Wait, Trial? We? You don't mean you want me to compete, do you?" she said suddenly nervous again.

The Midas Estate

When Nigel issues his challenge, the others are hesitant. Not out of cowardice, but everyone from the Vice-Admirals to the Tenryubito are sizing him up. It was a high-stakes poker battle: everyone trying to figure the others' cards while keeping theirs secret. They all wanted to know what the newcomer could do, but no one wanted to volunteer any of their "hidden cards."

The first of the Tenryubito was Wilhelm Kaiser. Even among the Tenryubito the Kaiser family was known as ruthless. Tyrants to all under their command, stories of them torturing their slaves, servants, and even Marine soldiers sent to guard them were wide and far. Most of the people surrounding Wilhelm concealed themselves under spiked brown and black uniforms, their faces covered by gas masks, most of which also had the trademark collars of slaves. There was one feminine gas mask figure clad in black leather, uncollared. Wilhelm himself wore no gas mask, his thick, pointed moustache and sharp features visible under his spiked helmet. Two of his bodyguards stood out, not just because of their lack of gas masks, but because they stood about a foot taller than everyone in the room. One black-suited gorilla-esque figure sported giant iron bars on his knuckles and his jaw replaced by a thick iron plate. The other, while equally large, wore some filthy leather outfit strapped onto him. The latter grinned rather insanely, his eyes misshapen and part of his head was covered in stitches. When he smiled, he revealed his misaligned, misshapen teeth resembling more monster than man.

The second of the Tenryubito was much friendlier in comparison, even though that didn't say much. Nicholas Holy was a larger man with a thick white beard and a white coat. A younger girl was with him clad in similar attire, probably his daughter. His slaves wore no uniforms other than the trademark collars, but otherwise looked surprisingly well-fed and taken care of for their position in life. Notable figures among that lot included a man in green, leafy clothing with a feathered cap and a bow and quiver, a man with a giant, drill-like lance, a tattooed man with boxing gloves, and what looked like a court jester, though even the latter remained silent. Sitting behind him was what appeared to be a feminine figure in a magenta shaul, no doubt one of Nicholas's trump cards he planned on saving for one of the Trials.

The third and final of the Tenryubito was less-known than the other two families: Maxwell Charletan. Maxwell himself was clad in a bright plaid suit that was tacky no matter how expensive it was, with slick-backed hair and oily features. Among his servants which weren't nearly as well-dressed (some were still clad in the burlap sacks they were sold in at the auction house) were a bikini-clad woman with a snake draped around her shoulders, a dark-suited man with sunglasses and a set of several samurai swords at his waist, a man in elaborate spiked armor not unlike a football player, and a mousy little girl with baggy clothing and thick glasses.

Before anyone could take Nigel up on his offer, the butler suddenly returned. "Esteemed Ladies and Gentlemen, thank you for your patience. May I present to you your host, the President of the Gold Corporation, Goldoro Midas."

The man who stepped out wore a golden suit so bright even the dim candlelight reflected off him as he glowed like a beacon in the room. Each finger was adorned with several rings of precious gems. His smile flashed equally bright as he spoke. "Welcome and thank you all for once again attending our annual celebration. This festival isn't just to celebrate another successful year for the Gold Corporation, it's also to honor you, the loyal patrons who've made all this possible. Some of you have come to these tournaments for several years now, but for others it's your first time at these games. For those who are new, Bartholomew will explain about the certain advantage that our VIP guests will have over the competition. Either way, let us all drink to the spirit of competition and capitalism." Midas held up a golden goblet for the toast. "May the truly greatest of us succeed. Bartholomew, if you would."

"Yes, sir," the butler bowed to his master, "For those of you waiting for a sneak peak for the prizes of this year's competition, we will have a display for our VIP guests later tonight. In the meantime, I've handed out a list of potential prizes for each of you..." Indeed, somehow when no one was looking, menu-style lists were placed in front of each VIP guest. "Now, as VIP guests, you are afforded a certain opportunity to get ahead of the competition. For those of you who are new, I shall explain. If you will direct your attention to the rear curtain." At the back of the room, a curtain covering the wall to reveal seven vaguely lit silhouettes. "A recurring feature of our tournaments: the Seven Specialists of Midas Island. Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald, Topaz, Amethyst, Pearl, and Diamond. We've hired seven elite operatives from various backgrounds to possibly act as your assassins. For the price of one billion belli, as provided by you or sponsors, you may hire one of these individuals to sabotage another contestant's entry in any of the competitions. While I assure you they are all skilled and competent, for clarity's sake I must inform you that this is a gamble, not a guarantee, for there are plenty of skilled contestants for all of the trials. If they fail to sabotage their target, then I'm afraid that is simply a lost gamble on your part. If you wish to hire any of our Specialists, then simply fill out a form at any point in time during the tournament and have the payment ready, and I will collect both and dispatch the Specialist on your behalf. I assure you, all such transactions are completely confidential. Not even the Specialist will know who hired them."

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-08, 11:22 AM

Captain Talina

The captain smiles again. Felicia, it's a team event. I need at least one person with me. So, I picked you.

Don't worry, it'll be fun.

Vice Admiral Arlene

Arlene's eyes narrow a little.

Sabotage? Really? Wow...it surprises me how low some people will go to win.

AnimeKid

2011-12-08, 12:57 PM

Nigel

The pirate captain has a frown on his face at the presentation. It had interrupted the fun. Plus it was rather scummy. 'How unmanly! If you want to win at something then challenge someone to it. If you lose you get stronger. I shall show these people the true way of Manliness!'

Outside remembering his promise to Preppa Nigel just narrows his eyes and turns his head to show his disapproval.

Mindfreak

2011-12-08, 03:39 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate
Admiral Preppa immediately throws away her prize phamphlet thing.
She wasn't about to learn anything that someone else couldn't. She didn't believe in cheating.
"Arlene, you're not purchasing an assassin."

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-08, 04:39 PM

Vice Admiral Arlene

Arlene turns her gaze to Preppa. Her face remains expressionless, but the Admiral should be able to pick up on the slight disbelief in her eyes.

Not to question your judgement, ma'am, but did you really believe I would even consider doing such a thing? I'd almost take offense to that.

Anyways, we should keep on guard from now on. There's a chance that we may become targets of these assassins.

happyturtle

2011-12-08, 05:59 PM

(Disciple, can you edit the title in the OP to include the [Tag] at the start of the title? Thanks! :smallsmile:)

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-08, 08:55 PM

The Pride

"Y-you want me to compete? In a team-based contest? I don't honestly think I'd be much help," she replies modestly. "Isn't there someone else? Maybe Hualin here. Or Valeria, or Lynette, or Roger-hime," she lists off her other pets. "Or maybe that talking kitty from ealier?"

The Midas Estate

The other Vice-Admirals and Tenryubito start perusing over the list of possible prizes and scanning out the competition, trying to decide where best to place their money. Against each other, or against some of the other contestants not present?

When the butler is finished with his explanation, he makes a stop by Admiral Preppa's table, wearing his usual calm smile. "Admiral. Shall I arrange a guest room for you, or have you made other arrangements?"

Kaiser whispers something to one of his lackeys, the big gorilla-like man with the iron jaws, who nods and steps into the cage with Nigel Zeromus. "Boss wants to know if you da same Nigel Zeromus who signed up for da Devil Tourney."

Mindfreak

2011-12-08, 09:01 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate
Admiral Preppa tries to get close and interlace hands with Arlene, pressing their...assets together.
"I should have never doubted you, my dearest vice-admiral...and yes, we must stay on our guard."
She then will break away when the butler comes over.
"We have no place to stay, so a room would be excellent, yes."

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-08, 09:09 PM

The Pride

Talina will go to put an arm around the doctor's shoulders. Come on, Felicia. You gotta live a little! Take chances! Have adventure in your life!

Plus, I already made up my mind about it.

The Midas Estate

When Preppa brings her... assets...against Arlene, the Vice Admiral doesn't react much. In all honesty, she's become used to how her Admiral acts, and has learned that the easiest thing to do is just go with it.

Arlene nods in agreement with Preppa about the room. That'll be good. Easier to keep an eye out if we're together.

AnimeKid

2011-12-08, 09:37 PM

Nigel

He looks at the gorilla-like man with a raised eyebrow. Yeah I am, why does you boss want to know?" He is honestly confused by why that would be a big deal. Then he remembers the assassins. He then grins widely. Both the fact that this person might have thought him threatening enough to have an assassin after him, and at the chance to fight one.

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-09, 09:13 AM

The Pride

Felicia was on the verge of almost comedic tears again. Days like this were why she never wanted to leave the ship. "I-if you say so, captain, but I don't think I'd do anything but hold you back." Felicia speaks as she boards the pride along with the tiger, Hualin. As soon as she stepped on board, three pairs of predatory eyes locked onto her, and before long three shapes leapt out of the shadows at her. This was a sight all too familiar to the rest of the crew as the lion, Roger-hime, the panther, Valeria, and the cheetah, Lynette, all playfully pounced her seeking treats.

The Midas Estate

"Very well, Admiral, it shall be done. Please inform me whenever you wish to go to your room or leave the estate. I have strict orders from Master Midas to personally escort you to and from your quarters. If you would like any service provided or would like a tour of the mansion grounds, I'd be happy to oblige if I can."

The iron-jawed gorilla slams the iron bars on his knuckles together, "Da name's Lockjaw Jock. Boss says since I ain't fightin ya in any of da Tourneys, I get to pummel ya here till he sees what ya can do." Obviously this mook was not chosen for his subtlety.

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-09, 09:57 AM

The Pride

Talina laughs at the sight of Felicia being glomped by her pets. She'll go to pet whichever one is closer.

Ah, don't worry about it, Felicia. Just do your best with it.

AnimeKid

2011-12-09, 10:20 AM

Nigel

For a moment Nigel just stands there with a look on his face. Then he grins widely as he jumps back a few feet and lands heavily. He stands up fully as he tosses his jacket behind him and his white shirt starts to strain a little from his flexing muscles. "HAHAHAHA! Alright then! You wanna brawl, then lets brawl buddy!" Nigels loud and boisterous voice rings throughout the room. Reaching behind him he takes his buster sword off of his back and holds it towards LockJaw with one hand. "Don't worry, I'll only use the back of the blade.
"

Mindfreak

2011-12-09, 01:05 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate
No reaction from Arlene?:smallconfused:
That's no fun! This means she'll just have to try harder!:smalltongue:
After all, she likes making people blush.
"Let's go check out our room now, eh Arlene?":smallwink:
She'll try to wrap her arm protectively around Arlene's shoulders.
"We can figure out who gets first watch...and other things.":smallwink:

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-09, 02:46 PM

The Pride

Despite being mauled by several large cats, Felicia seems perfectly fine and doesn't even spill the groceries. "All right, all right, mummy loves you too." Felicia manages to pick herself up, a feat with the maelstrom of fur around her, and gets out a bag of kitty treats and starts doling them out, the tiger also joining in at this point. "Is anyone else on the crew competing? Or are we not busy for the next couple of days?"

The Midas Estate Guest Room

When Preppa and Arlene are ready to go, Bartholomew appears out of nowhere as usual and guides them through the lavishly furnished hallways to their guest room. And by guest room, it was more of large apartment, with two suites, a common room, and a bathroom with a jacuzzi. Somehow, the room seem like it had been prepared to suit both of their personal tastes with the normal luxuries the two would appreciate, despite it only having been "made" not minutes before according to the butler.

The Midas Estate Ball Room

Lockjaw Jock threw one of his tree-trunk-sized arms at Nigel, his fist probably large enough to pick up the self-proclaimed 'Man of the Sea' and crush him one-handed.

AnimeKid

2011-12-09, 03:05 PM

Nigel

When he is punched at Nigel brings his Buster sword around the flatside to block the blow. Instead of going flying like he should have the man skids back a few feet. Nigel mentally pats himself on the back for the 2.5x gravity on himself, increasing his weight. Nigel then exerts gravity behind himself, rocketing him forward at a fast pace as he tries to slam the back of his Buster Sword into his stomach.

Mindfreak

2011-12-09, 03:31 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate Guest Room
Preppa's face goes into shock as she sees the jacuzzi.
She then immediately removes her jacket, and rips her t-shirt and jeans off, revealing that she wears a bikini underneath instead of underwear.
She then slides into the jacuzzi.
"Arlene, I order you to get into this jacuzzi and relax with me right this second."

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-09, 04:09 PM

The Pride

Talina shrugs. I don't think anybody else is. But, even if they are, I want you with me on the team event.

The Midas Estate

Arlene sighs. Maybe later. I wanna take a look around first.

Unless Preppa stops her, Arlene will wander around their rooms, examining everything.

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-09, 04:20 PM

The Pride

"Fiiine..." Felicia reluctantly whines. After all, Talina was the captain. "This is going to be middle school all over again."

The Midas Estate

Arlene finds her suite to suit her personal tastes, whatever that may mean. If she decides to step out into the hallway, she'll find the butler waiting patiently to escort her wherever she might want to go.

Meanwhile, in the ballroom...

Jock's other arm moves to catch the Buster Sword in a surprisingly efficient matter. He might've looked like nothing but big, dumb muscle, but the guy apparently knew how to fight pretty well. The sword makes a suprisingly loud clang when it hits Jock's hand, and the big lug is pushed back a few inches along the floor. "You're heavier than you look," he notes as his free arm swings around to try to knock Nigel away.

AnimeKid

2011-12-09, 05:21 PM

Nigel

Nigel narrows his eyes as Lockjaw readies his arm for his swing. As Lockjaw swings his should note that his arm is moving slower, far slower than it should be. With Nigel slowing the arm down due to his gravity powers he takes the opportunity to get in an a powerful uppercut, not at Lockjaw's chin but at his throat and the five rings decorating his fist don't exactly make his punch any softer. He manages to get it in just before Lockjaw's arm catches him again, sending him skidding back as he retains his grasp on his blade.

Mindfreak

2011-12-09, 05:24 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate Guest Room
Preppa gives a sigh of happiness in the water.
"Don't keep me waiting, Arlene~":smallwink:
She already knows that they'll share a bed.
How else will they watch for assassins?:smalltongue:

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-09, 06:10 PM

The Pride

Talina grins and goes to pull Felicia into a one-armed hug. That's the spirit! It'll be fun!

Hey, we should go get some drinks.

The Midas Estate

Once she has thoroughly looked over everything twice, Arlene knows that she can't stall any longer. She sighs to herself, and Preppa will see the Vice Admiral walk into her room.

A few moments later, she steps back out. She's wearing the same sports bra, as well as a pair of tight shorts in the same shade of blue. She carries her swords, and lays them next to the jacuzzi before stepping in herself.

Ahhh...this does feel nice...

Mindfreak

2011-12-09, 06:27 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate
Admiral Preppa doesn't scoot all the way over to Arlene for once.
That's how good she found the jacuzzi to be.
"Yeah it does...I haven't been in a jacuzzi this nice ever..."
Her face shows that she's in heaven right now.

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-09, 06:33 PM

The Midas Estate

Arlene seems to relax a little. Given how short she is, the water comes up to her shoulders. She doesn't seem to mind, though.

She leans back slightly, obviously enjoying this.

So, how many assassination attempts do you think we'll get?

Mindfreak

2011-12-09, 06:44 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate
"You're probably going to get more assassination attempts then me, I'm only in the Trial of Beauty..."
She bites her lip as she scoots over to Arlene, finally, and tries to wrap her arm around her Vice-Admiral.
"So we should be developing a watch system where you get plenty of sleep, don't want you tired for the Trial of Steel..."

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-09, 07:02 PM

The Midas Estate

Arlene looks to Preppa and raises an eyebrow, aware of her Admiral's ulterior motives.

I would think you would get more attempts, simply because you're more well known than me.

Mindfreak

2011-12-09, 07:17 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate
Ulterior motives? Preppa?
Never.:smalltongue::smallwink:
"Yes, but I am in the Trial of Beauty only after all...it's not that big of a Trial..."
She tries to snuggle up next to Arlene now, but in a protective way.
"I think you should get first watch..."

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-09, 07:49 PM

The Midas Estate

Arlene doesn't really react to the snuggling. Though, if anybody else tried it, they'd probably be in a lot of pain. Assuming they were still conscious, of course.

Arlene nods in agreement. Don't forget that there may be some people here who don't like you, and would love the chance to kill you without it being traced back to them.

AnimeKid

2011-12-09, 08:14 PM

((OOC: Mind, is Preppa still a Devil fruit user? Cause if she is why can she truly enjoy the jacuzzi so much? I mean, sure it's not sea water, but i thought she would at least be slackened so much that it would be a little uncomfortable.))

Mindfreak

2011-12-09, 08:14 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate
And it isn't like Preppa is into Arlene that way...
"Mmm, but as long as you're here I feel safe enough..." she says as she tries to very gently poke Arlene on the nose.
"Plus you've got first watch and I'm sure you can handle anything that comes after me..."
She'll remove herself from Arlene.
"Now, we should do some training after this...we gotta keep in shape..."

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-09, 08:24 PM

The Midas Estate

Arlene inwardly sighs at Preppa's behavior. Not quite how an Admiral should act. But, Arlene had gotten used to it, and never questioned her commander about it.

The Vice Admiral nods in agreement. Yes, we should. It would help our performance in the trials as well.

Mindfreak

2011-12-09, 08:42 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate
Taking up a towel, Preppa dries herself off.
"Let's get on with it then." she said as she got her fists raised up for hand-to-hand fighting, the only kind of fighting she swore that helped your reflexes.
"Come at me, Arlene.":smallwink:

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-09, 08:52 PM

The Midas Estate

Arlene got out and dried herself as well. She tossed the towel aside, then suddenly rushed at Preppa, her right fist going for the Admiral's side.

For how small she was, Arlene was extremely fast and strong. Not super-human levels, but close.

Mindfreak

2011-12-09, 09:03 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate
Preppa catches Arlene's fist easily.
"Nice starting move, but not good enough Arlene."
She goes with a leg sweep to trip Arlene.

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-09, 09:17 PM

The Midas Estate

Preppa's reach was too long for Arlene to back away from the kick. Which left her one option.

Arlene adjusts her fist to grab Preppa's wrist, and jumps up. As she pulls Preppa's arm away from her body, she brings up her knee towards the Admiral's ribs.

Mindfreak

2011-12-09, 09:48 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate
Arlene will find it hard to grasp Preppa's wrist with her hand that was previously a fist.
This is because Preppa caught it previously.
However, to do a leg sweep Preppa was going to let go at the last minute.
So, this ends up with Preppa not getting kicked in the ribs, but rather a glancing blow in the side as she dodges.
This is when she quickly uses her Devil Fruit Power of the Light-Light Fruit, causing a quick flash of light that should blind Arlene long enough for Preppa to tackle her and roll her onto her belly, as she's doing this while really close to Arlene.

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-09, 09:57 PM

The Midas Estate

Arlene was caught off guard. She didn't expect the burst of light, and Preppa had gotten the hang of turning it on and off with no warning.

However, as soon as the light hits, Arlene knows that Preppa will try something. When the tackle comes, Arlene moves with it and spreads out her left arm and right leg, helping prevent any rolling. Then, she tries to get her left knee in between her and Preppa and shove the Admiral off.

Mindfreak

2011-12-09, 10:05 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate
Oh jeez, knee!
Preppa does the one thing she didn't want to have to do.
The one thing she vowed never to do!
She goes full light and tries to hug Arlene tightly, going right between both her legs and getting a glancing blow from Arlene's left knee, saying: "Glue! Glue! Glue! Glue! Glue!"

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-09, 10:08 PM

The Midas Estate

Oh sweet jeebus! Not the hugs!

Arlene shuts her eyes to keep from being blinded, and tries to wiggle her way out of the hug. Depending on how strong Preppa is, she may find holding on tough.

Arlene will try to at least wiggle an arm out. If she can, she'll aim a punch to Preppa's side to get her off.

Mindfreak

2011-12-09, 10:19 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate
Preppa whines when Arlene punches her in the side, but doesn't let go at all.
Instead, she seems to be holding on even TIGHTER.
And she seems to be glowing even brighter!
She doesn't really seem to be committed to going all out for this anymore...

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-09, 10:26 PM

The Midas Estate

Arlene will give at least one more punch before she picks up on that fact.

Eyes still closed, arm still out, she sighs. Are you just going to sit there hugging me all day?

Mindfreak

2011-12-09, 10:44 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate
Another punch equals another whine.
"...yes."
This was because Preppa never really liked hurting her friends, even while sparring which is why when she's half-way through the sparring she just goes into glowing mode.

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-09, 10:50 PM

The Midas Estate

Arlene sighs again, letting her hand fall to the floor.

You know...if you keep stopping in the middle of a match, neither of us gets a good work out.

Mindfreak

2011-12-09, 10:56 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate
"But-but I don't want to hurt you! I'm afraid if I go all out you'll get hurt!" she said as she went to bury her face in Arlene's chest, crying a little.
She cares for Arlene, she really does! Awww...how adorable!

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-09, 11:06 PM

The Midas Estate

Preppa... Arlene gives her commander a pat on the head. Don't worry about that. If I get hurt, then I get hurt. That's part of training.

Mindfreak

2011-12-09, 11:18 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate
"It doesn't matter! As long as I have life in these limbs I'm not going to hurt you! You're my only friend, Arlene...and you're the only one I trust..."
She buries her face deeper in Arlene's chest.
Before Arlene, there was no Vice Admiral that would stick with Preppa.
Mostly because she's crazy.:smalltongue:

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-09, 11:24 PM

The Midas Estate

Arlene sighs again. That's part of training. If I get hurt, then it's my fault, not yours.

Mindfreak

2011-12-09, 11:31 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate
"You know...you kinda have a point..."
And then she tries to flip Arlene over and pin her down.
"Because now I'M WINNING.":smallbiggrin:
This is what happens when you helpher get over something, plus the fact that she's nuttier than squirrel poo.:smalltongue:
You create a monster who's also a pervert!:smalleek:

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-09, 11:43 PM

The Midas Estate

Arlene gets flipped over. You and your tricks...

With as much strength as she can get from this position, Arlene pushes straight up, trying to throw Preppa off.

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-10, 01:22 AM

The Midas Estate

Nigel's attempted throat punch fails to take into account one very important factor. Jock's unfortunately sturdy slave collar, the one keeping him from crushing his 'master' into a pile of discolored goo, caught the attack, and as Nigel skidded back, Jock quickly closed the distance, throwing a few quick hooks which on him were more like rapid-fire sledgehammers. The small size of the cage soon made itself readily apparent to Nigel as it looked like Jock was about to corner him. The other fights ceased completely, the others gauging the strengths (and possible weaknesses) of the two.

AnimeKid

2011-12-10, 01:36 AM

Nigel

He backs up each time he is punched by his powerful foe, dropping his sword by the third punch. As they approach the wall of the arena Nigel's hands come up and manage to catch Jock's two fists. As the two enter a contest of strength with Jock slightly pushing Nigel back with his feet digging trenches in the ground Nigel lets out a hearty laugh as he says, HAHAHAHA! You truly are a rare sight, a man among men who keeps on going. I can tell, you have your pride, your strength but you don't let it fool you into thinking they are the only things that matter. Yes! I can feel the passion of your fists, now feel the passion of my sou!!" With that Nigel releases the 2.5x gravity that was on him. All of the strength that was going into resisting the increased gravity field, suddenly is able to be freely used by Nigel. He manages to stop Jock shortly before the wall they were coming up on. His hands digging into Jock's fists he then lets out a mighty roar as he tries to lift Jock off his feet and swing him around to slam him into the arena wall.

If he succeeds he then follows up as he says, Grav Grav...PULSE!!!" an immense burst of gravitational force (about 6G's worth.) then slams into Jocks body drilling him deeper into the wall.

(the second paragraph is only if Nigel's first move succeeds. Also if I have taken to many liberties with this post please tell me so I can fix it.)

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-10, 02:34 AM

((Is Nigel even strong enough to... nevermind, this is One Piece. Rule of cool and all that.))

Jock looks surprised as he's lifted up by Nigel and tossed into the iron fence cage wall, but not as surprised as his stomach feels like it's collapsing in on itself. He slumped to the ground, alive but unconscious. His owner, Wilhelm Kaiser, decided that the fight wasn't quite over. Manning a personal remote contraption of his, Jock's arms, and just his arms, sprang to life. Balancing his whole body on one dragged knuckle, the other arm start unleashing a barrage of attacks. To an onlooker, it'd appear as if the arm was flailing about randomly, but each strike and angle was calculated. The movements were more robotic than before, but just as strong and much faster as the arms constantly switched which was balancing and which was attacking between attacks.

AnimeKid

2011-12-10, 02:48 AM

(Normally he isn't. Nigel's base strength is when he has the 2.5 times gravity on him[this will go up with time. Plus yeah, One Piece does seem to function on that half the time. Like how Zoro survived being in a building that was blown up by a Buggy Ball with minimal injuries, and was able to fight Cabaji the Acrobat.] When he released this personal gravity field however his strength increased along with his speed. Don't worry though, this won't be turning into dragon ball Z anytime soon.)

Nigel

He smiles as he sees his foe go down. Then his eyes widen in shock when his arms re-animate themselves. His eyes widen again when he noticed the speed increase and is barely able to back away enough to get a glancing blow from his enemy. It was still enough to hurt his battered body but he was still in...for now. Constantly dodging by a hair breadth he desperately tries to think up a plan for this unmanly turn of events. To get himself some breathing room he sends another pulse of gravity at Jock just aiming to push him back this time. After all the man was unconscious, if he did to much he might accidentally kill the guy and he had gained way to much of his respect for Nigel to do that.

Mindfreak

2011-12-10, 07:05 AM

The Midas Estate

Arlene gets flipped over. You and your tricks...

With as much strength as she can get from this position, Arlene pushes straight up, trying to throw Preppa off.
Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate
Preppa grins as Arlene tries to throw her off.
"You know you love my tricks~" she said in a sexy voice.
When Arlene tries to throw Preppa off, Preppa grins even wider and is launched a bit into the air, but she doesn't come quite off Arlene's back completely.
This is when Preppa tries to pin Arlene back down again and whisper in her ear.
"Yield to me, my precious Vice-Admiral..."
The last time she told Arlene to yield to her and she did...well, let's just say it involved embarrassing outfits, such as a maid uniform and a pair of catgirl ears...
Preppa still has pictures.

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-10, 11:14 AM

The Midas Estate

When Preppa was launched up the short distance, Arlene managed to get her legs under her again.

Then comes the Admiral's whisper. Arlene remembers the pictures...and she doesn't plan on adding any more.

Arlene tries an unusual move from here. Instead of trying to go straight up or back, Arlene pushes forward with her feet, moving her upper body as if she were doing a front flip. Unless the Admiral takes action, this should result in Preppa hitting the floor on her back, and Arlene landing on top of her.

Mindfreak

2011-12-10, 02:07 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate
As Preppa lands on her back she laughs.
"Alright, Alright, I yield." she said as she looked up at Arlene, her mouth pouting suggestively.
"Same spoils as always, you get one favor of me and no matter what it is I have to do it."
She was a bit restless underneath Arlene's hands as she awaited for what she'd have to do. She made these 'rewards' for winning a while ago.

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-10, 02:36 PM

The Midas Estate

Arlene rolls off of Preppa and gets to her feet. Then she'll offer to pull Preppa up as well.

I still don't know why you insist on these favors for winning a match.

But, if that's how you want to do it...I suppose my swords could use a good cleaning before the Trial of Steel.

Mindfreak

2011-12-10, 02:40 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate
Preppa sorta frowns then smiles.
"Okay, I'll polish your swords for you." she said with a wink, which is her assurance that it would be done.
"And the favors are good! They provide incentive!"
Like pictures of Arlene wearing catgirl ears and a maid outfit.:smallamused:

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-10, 03:32 PM

Mina Kobold

2011-12-10, 04:10 PM

Registration

"Name, Affiliation, and Devil Fruit Type please."

"Name's Ben, I don't think I have an affiliation with anyone and Risu Risu no Mi, I think"

Ben rattles off his information with a grin but seems a bit unsure about the Devil Fruit name. Possibly because he ate it on accident and didn't get the chance to read up on it since.

Mindfreak

2011-12-10, 04:53 PM

The Midas Estate

Arlene's request may have not been what Preppa would've liked, but the Admiral shouldn't really expect much else from Arlene. The Vice Admiral may be more easy going than she used to be, but she still had a long way to go.

The corner of Arlene's mouth goes up a little bit. Yeah, they do.
Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate
Preppa take out one of the pictures of Arlene in the maid uniform and catgirl ears and shows it off.
"Maybe next time you should ask me to destroy these...if you can win again...":smallwink:
She gets out the sword polish.

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-10, 05:21 PM

The Midas Estate

A facepalm would be appropriate here. However, Arlene merely glared at Preppa.

While you're doing that, I'm going to get some exercise in.

Unless Preppa stops her, Arlene will start her normal aerobic routine.

Mindfreak

2011-12-10, 05:28 PM

Admiral Preppa - The Midas Estate
Preppa just grins as she begins to polish Arlene's swords, pausing ever so often to...admire the picture of Arlene.

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-10, 06:54 PM

Registration

Very well, Mr. DuChene, you're now registered.

The Midas Estate

The pulse blasts into Jock, wrecking his body some more but the arms continue their assault regardless of the condition of the body. One arm balances while the second starts rotating at the elbow socket with the speed of a rotor blade, pulverizing the floor on contact and threatening to do the same to Nigel if he doesn't do something soon.

((After Nigel somehow manages to resolve the situation (or fails to resolve it for that matter), I'll do a timeskip for the first day. Since there aren't any PC contestants, I'll probably write up the entirety of the contest in one big post and everyone else can observe and react accordingly. Then we can move on to the swordsmanship contest.))

AnimeKid

2011-12-10, 08:59 PM

Nigel

'The arms.' With this thought in mind Nigel ceases his retreat and plants both feet in the ground. He then claps his hands together in preparation for his move. His eyes focusing with his power he calls out "GRAV GRAV...PRESS!!" funneling the gravitational forces in his control Nigel tries to press down about 5G's of gravitational force solely on Jock's arms. Once done the hulking man should be disabled and the win should be his.

Kuroimaken

2011-12-11, 08:32 AM

[At the Jungle Cat Pirates' ship]

A small letter floats down the mast towards Felicia once she's done feeding her pets. It's hard to see it, but a small black cat leaps off the... well, his creator doesn't know the term for it, but it's the big stretch of wood above the sails thingy.
The letter reads:

Roses are red
Violets are blue
This kitty is sorry
That he spooked you.
=^_^=

Why yes, Kohou has the poetic skills of a sixth grader. Why do you ask?

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-11, 09:07 AM

The increased gravity causes the ground to crack, but the mechanical arms stay intact. Whoever made these prosthetics used top-grade engineering. Suddenly, the arm balancing itself, resisting the immense gravity pull somehow manages to pull off enough strength to leap into the air, despite the increased gravity. The arms spun around to bring both fists slamming down on top of Nigel, the increased gravity adding to the strength of what may very well be the final attack.

AnimeKid

2011-12-11, 11:03 AM

Nigel

It was only because at this point becoming shocked was a bit unnecessary. This was the only reason that Nigel had barely managed to dodge though the shockwave was enough to send him flying. He rolled for a bit before coming to his feet. He looks up at the no doubt still standing, zombiefied Jock as he pants heavily. He then says loudly, "This is going nowhere fast. I do not wish to kill and unconcious man and these arms simply choose to keep going regardless of said man's state of body. This fight no longer proves anything, nor is it man to man combat. In the interest of preserving this man's body I concede the match." With that Nigel picks up his Buster Sword and throws his coat over his shoulders before he looks down at his shirt which has been ripped to shreds by his bulging muscles and the punishment he had taken. "Well damn, guess I'll just have to get another one." Nigel then jumps easily out of the arena before going over to Bartholomew and asking where Preppa and Arlene went.

Mina Kobold

2011-12-11, 11:10 AM

Registration

"Thanks, now all I have to do is wait!"

Ben skips half a step away before spinning around on the spot and cheerily asking anther question.

"How much are spectator tickets for the other competitions?"

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-11, 05:05 PM

Registration

"Regular stadium seating is free. Premium seating and private boxes are extra though."

The Midas Estate

"Mere rat. My toy iz done playing ven I am. Your pazetic pleas vill not save you." Wilhelm Kaiser fiddles with his control and the hulking arms chase after Nigel. Before they can strike, however, the second they leave the designated fight area, Bartholomew is instantly between them, stopping the hulking mechanical arms with one gloved hand. "Now, Mr. Kaiser. Must I remind you of the established rules of the estate? I would hate for something to happen to your servant." The Tenryubito grits his teeth at the butler, but is forced to relent his attack.

"I believe the Admiral and her subordinate have retired for the night. When you are ready, I shall escort you off the premises, Captain."

AnimeKid

2011-12-11, 05:23 PM

Nigel

He nods as he says, "I see, oh well. Will you at least give them my sincerest goodbye's? I am ready to leave if that if possible." He then looks over to glare at Kaiser now that he knows that it was him who was controlling Jock's body. His eyes clearly display the message of hate for putting the man through that.

DiscipleofBob

2011-12-12, 07:02 PM

The butler leads Nigel off the premises and back to town, where the shops are closing down in preparation for the next day...

The First Day

The next day, the shops in the Bazaar are closed. Everyone's going to the tournament, the only merchants having set up shop at the stadium itself. The entire island was gathering to watch the first Trial, and it wouldn't be too much longer before the festivities began and the trial would commence. Admiral Preppa was given her own VIP box high above the crowd (paid for by the government that employed her of course). In the other boxes were the Tenryubito and the Vice-Admirals, one particularly lavish box housing President Midas himself.

Mindfreak

2011-12-12, 07:14 PM

The First Day
Admiral Preppa was inside her box.
She was rooting for her precious Vice-Admiral, Arlene.

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-12, 09:19 PM

The First Day

((Um...there first trial is the Trial of Eyes...Arlene's in the Trial of Steel...the second one...))

Arlene is seated next to her Admiral. She isn't too focused on the contest. Her attention is on everybody around them. She wasn't sure if somebody would try anything on her or Preppa, but she'd be damned if it happened because she wasn't paying attention.

Meanwhile...

Talina was in the lower area, eager to watch. She liked watching competitions. It gave her a rush.

She probably would've tried to get Felicia to come with her. She wouldn't have forced the doctor, though.

Mindfreak

2011-12-12, 09:27 PM

The First Day - Admiral Preppa
Oh.
My bad.:smallredface:
In that case Admiral Preppa is probably trying to make some servants who may be in the room blush.
And Arlene.
This may or may not include her blowing kisses, showing off her assets, and being reaaaaaally pervy.:smallbiggrin:
But in reality, this is how she sniffed out the true threats.

KerfuffleMach2

2011-12-12, 09:35 PM

The First Day - VIP Box

Arlene sighs a little at Preppa's actions. However, she has become used to them, and doesn't blush like she used to.

Doesn't mean she joins in them, though.

AnimeKid

2011-12-12, 10:19 PM

Nigel

He was in the crowds, his size and stature making him distinct even in the crowd of people who he was watching the tournament with. He smiles as he watches the Marksmanship Tournament. Not really his cup of tea but still something he could enjoy watching.

Kuroimaken

2011-12-13, 07:56 AM

There is a black kitty on top of the head of a female pirate watching the tournament. Said female pirate is dressed in overalls with an eyepatch. She has dark tanned skin and purple hair tied up in a ponytail. She has her arms crossed, watching intently, though some might say there is a hint of pouting.

Mina Kobold

2011-12-13, 04:29 PM

DuChêne

Ben tiptoes to look over the shoulders of the other spectators, edging in and out of the crowds until finding a spot a few metres off of Nigel's position.

Eyes focussed on the feats of the competitors, the squirrely pirate seems to miss the obvious stature of Nigel or the strangeness of a girl with a cat on her head.