Chapter 463: Chapter 463: First Encounter
"Okay, we should go and explore this island," Ben stated.
They all agreed. "My Emperor, we have lowered the bridge down, so we will be able to walk across to the island," NT informed.
"The water are deep around this island?" Maya asked in her midnight-blue gown that sparkled with tiny silver flecks. The gown was sleeveless, with a high neckline. The dress flowed down to the floor. She wore a silver belt. A sheer, silver shawl was draped around her shoulders.She also wore high heels.
"They seem to be," Nojiko responded in her blue fitted tank top leaving her midriff exposed. She wore low-rise blue jeans and blue sandals.
"Let's go then," Tashigi urged. She knew sitting around will solve this problem. She had no reason to doubt Ben. Even though as a Marine she knew pirates were evil but as a woman she could trust him. He took her first kiss. She shook her head no, she thought.
"Someone is impatient," Alvida said.
"Should we have some plan?" Zala asked.
"Keep our eyes open and explore for now," Ben responded. "We don't have much information right now," he added.
They all agreed. "We should head to the weapon`s room and get our weapons," Mikita said.
"Good idea," Zala said. The girls got their usual weapon which they had used during Enies Lobby.
"Kalifa, I have something for you," Ben said.
(Sweetie Redeem Whip: Lovethorn)
[Be careful out there please.] [Redeeming Whip: Lovethorn]
(Thank you Sweetie and we will.)
Ben thought that was strange but he was glad Sweetie had their backs.
At that moment, there was a golden light. The girls looked away. As the light disappeared, they could see a weapon. Its handle was wrapped in soft, pink leather, with a flower and heart design. The whip itself was a shade of red, made from a durable, flexible material. Running along the length of the whip are small, thorn-like spikes. At the end of the whip, a silver-tipped clasp shaped like a rosebud gleamed.
"This is for you," Ben said, extending the whip toward Kalifa.
Kalifa's eyes widened slightly, caught off guard. "I…," she began, but trailed off, taken aback by the gesture.
"That looks incredible!" Marianne exclaimed.
"The thorns look like they'd hurt a lot," Vivi noted, inspecting the sharp, rose-like spikes running along its length.
"Perfect for anyone foolish enough to cross us," Raki added with a smirk.
Alvida nudged Kalifa gently. "My love gave you a gift, so you should accept it. It's meant for you," she said.
Kalifa nodded. She reached out and took the weapon or gift. She gripped the handle and let her fingers trace the patterns on the pink leather. "Lovethorn," she murmured. She could feel an undeniable energy pulsing from the whip. She thought this was no ordinary whip.
Kalifa met Ben's eyes, a small, appreciative smile on her lips. "Thank you. I'll make sure it's used wisely... and effectively," she said.
"I am glad you like it," Ben said. "Has everyone got what they needed? Ben asked.
They all nodded and headed onto the island. Ben and the girls walked off the bridge and onto the island.
"The sand is going into my heels," Nojiko said.
Ben was always surprised to see how they can move so well in heels. "You could change," Ben said.
"I am okay," Nojiko said. "Besides, it will ruin my outfit for you," she teased.
At that moment, Ben could see two wings or ears from the bushes. He tried to get a closer look but it was gone.
"Did you see something?" Kaya asked in her long, yellow sleeveless dress that flowed gracefully down to her knees. The dress hugged her figure, accentuating her curves, with a plunging neckline that showed a tasteful yet alluring amount of cleavage. The fabric of the dress clung to her form, highlighting her slim waist and the gentle curve of her hips and butt.
"I thought I saw something with ears like wings," Vivi added as she squinted her eyes.
"You three have good eyesights," Nojiko said, looking around.
"Master, we will defend the Miss Love Duck," HQ said.
"Okay, let us know if there is any trouble," Ben said. He thought they all had Den Den Mushi or Walkie Talkies.
As they approached the grass, a faint light appeared. "What is that?" Conis asked as she held her Heat Javelin.
"Let's keep our guard up," Zala said.
The light began to coalesce, gradually forming distinct shapes. As it grew brighter, figures started to emerge, revealing themselves to be Marine soldiers. Their uniforms and weapons became visible, casting a sharp contrast against the glowing aura around them. The glow stopped. Their faces were not clear at all.
"Marines?" Maya asked.
"What are they doing here?" Saphir asked.
"I am Captain Hina, who are you and what are you doing here?" Hina demanded. Her voice was firm.
The Marines slowly approached them. Their swords gleamed. "Stop, who are you?" Hina asked once again. The Marines did not answer and kept walking towards them.
"Why don't you listen to us?" Tashigi asked,
"They are not Marines," Ben responded. The four Marines ran towards the group of girls.
"Shave," Alvida said as she moved quickly towards the Marines. She focused her strength into a precise strike as she gripped Seraphina and swung her mace at the Marines. "Kanabo Breaker," Alvida said as she struck the two of the Marines. They both got hit and went flying into the air.
Hina and Tashigi were shocked to see a move like that being used.
"Wow, Alvida already got the hang of it," Vivi said.
"She is good," Raki acknowledged.
"Amazing," Ben said and smiled at her.
Zala jumped into action. "Storm Leg," Zala said as she kicked at high speed and strength which launched a sharp compressed blade of wind. The blade of air was small and hit the Marine. The Marine staggered back. She kissed her teeth. "Stinger Balls," Zala followed up as she turned her hand into spike balls. She then punched the two Marines in the face. They both went flying back.
"That was cool Zala," Marianne said. Zala thought it was too small.
The four Marines landed on their backs on the ground. "You hurt them," Tashigi said.
"No," Robin said as she pointed to them. They all saw they had turned to light.
"They disappeared," Saphir said.
"They must be the Phantasm," Robin added.
"They are fakes," Honey said.
"There would be more of them, so let's keep our eyes open," Ben stated. They all nodded. Hina and Tashigi thought about what this place was.