The impact from the kick managed to push the beast back a few inches. The rhino, on the other hand, quickly stopped it's charged, skidding to a stop across the ground as it's feet dug into the dirt below itself. It would certain take some time for the animal to turn and charge at him again, which the teenage boy can use to his advantage. For now, he will have his time accompanied by the ferocity of the tiger he was able to push back a fairly short distance as he wanted to bring punishment to this creature up close and personal. Remaining close to the adolescent fighter, the tiger took a multitude of swipes with it's claws, measuring up to four in total. Malik was able to dodge two of the assortment of strike, but the remaining amount of the tiger's attacks was able to damage him. One swipe was able to leave a couple of minor cuts on the boy's left forearm another was able to make three cuts into the fabric of his white t-shirt on the right side of his abdomen, but leave his skin unharmed. It was the adolescent fighter's turn to retaliate with a counterattack. He shifted his combative position and clenched his right palm into a fist. He reared it back, preparing to unleash an assault of his own. It was his turn to inflict pain upon this beast.

"My turn" The strong young novice of a pirate sated in his mind as he was about to release the first attack of his onslaught of blows. First, he thrusted his fist towards the tiger. The punch connected with the left side of the animal's jaw. He then, performed a roundhouse kick using his right leg, making a clockwise rotation as he did so. The blow was able to hit the feline in his left jaw this time. With two blows landing straight into the beast's face, the said creature was left in a daze thanks to the force of both impacts. This also made it difficult for the tiger to see where it was going to begin with. To finish his barrage of blows, Malik performed a knee strike using his left leg. It was able to land on the feline's chin. It caused the animal to stumble back a few feet, trying to maintain it's balance. It was take a short of amount of time for it to regain balance and attack the strong young adolescent. Fortunately that was all the time he required as his heard the sound of dirt being forcibly dug into. He turn his gaze to see what was behind him and saw that the rhino he dodged earlier preparing for another charge.

The said animal begin to rushed towards him, trying to put as much strength into this next blow as it could. This was actually part of Malik's plan. To utilize the strength of the animal against itself and cause it's own downfall. Due to the poor eyesight of the creature, he could use both it's rage and strength to his advantage. His mother spoke to him about claiming victory in certain battles. Where it is not just the strongest or powerful who will prevail, but also some of the most intelligent in which she went on to explain that power and brute strength can only get a warrior so far in a fight. In the end, he realized that power meant nothing without the knowledge on how to use it. They share a strong relationship such as the Chinese concept on Yin and Yang, Negative and Positive coming together and maintaining balance through a natural never-ending cycle. When the rhinoceros was close enough for the teenage pirate to make his move, he decided to take action. He was able to dodge the anime's frontal assault by immediately crouching down and jumping up into the air in the form of a back flip, which allowed the boy to sore over the beast without getting any damage inflicted upon his physical being.

With the young determine fighter being able to successfully to evade the charge rhino that was approaching him from behind, the tiger was, unfortunately, forced to endure the full brunt of the attack. When a rhinoceros starts charging, it was rather difficult for them to stop immediately when they start running at full-speed. The horned beast ended up ramming into the feline instead of the adolescent warrior, who managed to land safely on both feet. The force of the impact from the rhino knocked the tiger into a tree close behind it. When the animal hit the solid thick wood of the large plant-like entity, the said beast dropped from it to the ground. The moment the creature hit the ground, it fell unconscious. Now, there was only Malik and the rhinoceros left within this certain area of the forest. He knows better that that there are more dangers awaiting him deeper into this mysterious terrain that surrounded him to seemingly no end. The rhino turned around on it's four legs, anger still evident in it's eyes. As it was an animal, it didn't seem to care about the well-being of the tiger. While it is seen as cold, that might be it's nature. Some animal are capable of compassion. After all, they are all living, and anything that has a soul can feel and care.

The rhinoceros begin to dig it's right leg into the earth beneath it yet again. It angrily snorted, releasing a small cloud of hot air from it's nostrils. It was so warm, in fact, that it was visible to the naked eye. In the case of this situation, the adolescent fighter's eye's. He could even take notice of the determination evident in the rhinoceros's gaze. There was no more playing games with this beast. He is now going to take it head-on himself. Despite being a formidable combatant in his own right, Malik is well aware of the tough skin adorned over this animal, which will probably make it difficult for him to inflict physical damage upon it's body. He will have to resort to more powerful techniques he had formulate while he was still staying in the Briss Kingdom after he brought down Tri-Shadow. These technique could even allow him to penetrate that hard skin covering that rhinoceros. It will take precision and proper reaction time to land a direct hit. He would first have to dodge the animal that was about to charge at him first. Speaking of which, the beast immediately began charging at him again. This animal was the certain type that relied solely on brute force. Backing it up was armor-like skin that could take a multitude of blows from ordinary people to break through. Of course, Malik was no ordinary person.

In fact, he was a young fighter skilled in the art of close-combat, thanks to his family. He was very thank for them for many things. Teaching him how to fight, allowing him to experience the thrill of battle, giving him the strength to help others as well as to vanquish evil, and for loving him. Even if he should happen to be traveling through the world all by himself, he would still a magnitude of friends he has made over the course of many adventures. He would, especially, still have a family who loves him and holds him dearly to their hearts. Though, he must remember, the more powerful the technique, the more energy it requires to initiate, so he must be cautious on how many attacks he uses as they are unique among ordinary blows. He knows just what technique to utilize. This will be a good exercise on how to use these attacks more efficiently. Quickly the rhinoceros charged straight for him in a corresponding linear motion. The look within the animal's gaze told the teenage fighter that it will not stop until it has hit him. He positioned himself for the right moment when to dodge and counterattack. It was then, he began to prepare one of his newer technique for usage. He started by fashioning his right hand into that of a claw, similar to a predatory animal. He then, pulls it back and waits for when the beast will approach.

"Now, just have to wait for the right moment to strike. Just a little closer, formidable brute of battle." He thought as he patiently waited for the rhinoceros to be in striking range of the adolescent warrior. When the creature was close enough, he stepped to his right, allowing to beast to safely pass him, but in that same moment of going by him, Malik was able to find the right area on the animal from which he can hit it. The left part of the beast's abdomen or simply it's left side. From there, he immediately thrusted his right claw-like palm onto the creature, focusing the point of impact into that same region on the rhino's body. This was similar to his technique, "Torakiba", but with more power and deadly force. The blow was able to connect, inflict a considerable amount of damage, measuring up to major in severity. The rhino growled in pain as a reaction towards the attack it had to endured. When it had passed the teenage child sooner after, he came to a sliding stop as a result. From how it stood now, Malik could tell that this battle with this animal was far from over. While it was significantly damaged on it's left side, that wasn't enough to take down this brute. This fight has only just begun.

The rhinoceros turned on it's four legs, seemingly ignoring the pain inflicted upon it. The young pirate shifted back into his combative stance, ready to continue on with his confrontation with one of nature's mightiest warriors. Of course, they pale in comparison to natural force, which are of the Lord and are, as such, both eternal and god-like. The immense power of natural disasters are capable of shape the entire world to their whim. This certain topic has Malik's thought going over on the subject of Logia, those who can create, control, and transform into a natural force seen in Earth's environment as well as natural elements. They are revered as the strongest and most powerful of all those who have eaten a Devil Fruit. The Sand-Sand Fruit was within this category, the power of sand, so to speak. However, there was no time to dwell on the mysterious of the power he was certain at the moment as the adolescent martial artist took notice of the rhino digging it's right leg into the soil again, preparing for another charge. Malik would have to note that he did admire the tenacity of this creature as he did with the tigers. He prepared himself as he knew what was to come next. All he had to do was prepare a decisive blow and take down this heavily-armored animal.

[Techniques Used: Ryuutsume: -25 = 225 Stamina]

He knows it will take a certain period of time to defeat this beast, if he were to keep attack at the areas surround by the armor-like skin that covered it's very body. The adolescent fighter knew he had to take a different approach and hit at the most vulnerable point on the rhinoceros where not even it's well protected body be able to defend against. Malik quickly examined the physical form of the animal to see where he could do the most damage and be able to knock the beast unconscious, so he could advance further in his search for the Devil Fruit he came to this island to begin with and return to the family of his new friend, Zatania. Speaking of whom, she must be very worried about his well-being. It was all the more reason to keep safe and make it through in one piece and survive with as much minimal damage as possible. The woman would be very much worried for him, if he were to come back a mess. He could not allow himself the luxury of doubt or sustain such massive damage on his physical form as he had a place to come back to as well as someone waiting for him. He will make it through this journey, for her. Of course, this may or may not be of romantic interest, but certainly for a person he cares for and willing to fulfill the task of inheriting the will of Zatania's late grandfather as well as one of his family members. The power within the Sand-Sand Fruit formerly belonged to both of them. He will not let any scoundrel take it and misuse it for their own malicious antics.

"Now, let us see where we can find a highly vulnerable area on this creature. There has to be a region it's body where I can strike and deal the most damage. It must be where the skin is the least thick or where the spots on it's physical form is possesses the lowest resistance against strong blows. I just have to find where to strike on the rhinoceros and knock him out and do it quick, before he rams into me with those horns." Malik thought, analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of the animal, which he can exploit and give him a chance to win this battle. He was also keeping close focus on the movements of the rhinoceros made in order to avoid any damage he might suffer. Fortunately, what Malik can conclude from his analysis is that this animal charges in a straight line and that it requires a noticeable amount of time for it to reach top-speed. as well as much need space. This must be why it needed to be in a large area such as the one where they were fighting. While predictable, this animal was quite intelligent. Not on the level of a living being, but smart enough to allow it to survive in harsh environment.

When the beast started charging at him, the time to formulate on how to strike his opponents grew thin with each stride this creature took. He was going have to take his chances and land an attack where he believes will affect this animal most. His eyes quickly darted in a multitude of angles, surveying numerous possibilities for vulnerabilities. He finally decided on it's neck before the beast grew too close for him to dodge. When the aforementioned animal was close enough, he slid to his left, effectively avoid any major damage. He rear back his right hand and clenched it into a fist. He then, strongly thrusts it forward. It successfully landed in the right portion of the rhinoceros's neck. The reaction is what he had been expecting. The thick-skinned beast growled in pain, even louder than when it was hit in it's left side. The pain cause the animal to immediately stop advance, sliding pass the adolescent boy as it did so. When the rhinoceros skidded to a halt, the creature was started to become tired down by it's continuous charging and the current amount of damage it his sustained. It slowly turned on it's four legs and stared at the teenage child. Anger and exhaustion was equally evident in the beast's gaze. It was both irritated and started to feel weighed down from the various circumstances that befell it.

"Good, it is starting to become very tired now. Just one more hit and it should come tumbling down in similarity to a building losing it's stability. Perhaps I should hit it on the head next. The force of my next blow may tired it out completely." The young adolescent fighter thought, satisfied at seeing his attacks taking effect on the creature he was doing battle with. He estimated that he just needed one more hit aimed at colliding with it's head. if he could land another blow at that very region on the animal's body, it might lose consciousness or become too tired from exhaustion and pain to move. Which ever came first, Malik was certain he can defeat this beast with his next tactic. He stood firm against the animal as it again dug it's right leg in the earth below it. With the a slight crouch, the rhinoceros charged forward. The young warrior himself crouched his legs as the beast approach him foot by foot. When the he believed the creature to be close enough, he jumped into the air, holding his right leg up hit. He then, performed a heel drop with his limb as he quickly descended onto the animal. The blow was able to connect to it's head. At that same moment, Malik jumped off to his left. He safely landed on both of his feet. The impact from the kick inflicted a significant amount of damage on to the rhinoceros as well as threw off it's balance. It growled in pain as it's legs started to give way from it's weight. Finally, due from over exhaustion and large amounts of sustained damage, the animal simply collapsed, landing on it's belly, too tired to move one muscle.

With this horned beast unable to move as a result from it's current condition brought on by Malik's most recent attack, this would mark a well-earned victory for himself. The adolescent then, turned his golden-eyed gaze around to see another creature that may possibly be out of commission as a result of suffering an impact from the rhinoceros's charging. To his fortune, the young warrior found that the tiger was still unconscious from the previous attack it had endured from the formidable animal the teenage boy had just defeated. It would have been tiresome to fight this creature again. From this angle and the current position it was it, it seemed innocent, so to speak in his own opinion. He turned his sight in another direction. He was searching for his hoodie and backpack he had left on a certain branch before he began his confrontation with both the rhinoceros and tiger. He shifted the angle of his head in various areas until they fell upon a branch up to his height that held what he was looking for. It was simply behind the the stem of the tree he appeared to fight the two formidable creatures, now on the ground. He started to to walk towards the tree with the branch that held his belongings, so he could continue his quest for the Devil Fruit. Of course, this was more than just about finding what he came here for. He now had a close friend, a place to come back to, and a promise to keep. It was a promise he was not going to break, no matter what the circumstances. As he walked towards the large mass of wood and leaves, he noticed the two slash-shaped cuts on his left forearm. He, of course, paid no heed to the same cuts on his shirt as long as the damage wasn't etched into his body from there. Zatania would be very worried for him, if he were to come back in bad shape.

"Hmm, ah yes, these cuts from when I was slashed into by that tiger. When, it is of no danger to anyone else at the moment, thanks to the impact from the rhinoceros ramming into it and knocking it into the tree that was behind it. I hope it isn't hurt too much, including the rhino. They were only attacking me because they felt threatened and thought I was the enemy. Perfectly understandable, sense I might have entered their territory. However, I never expected to find a tiger and rhinoceros in the same area together. I wonder what other discoveries I will find in this forest. Well, I suppose I should rest again before moving on. I need to be in top shape for any danger that might come after me, whether enemy or not." The adolescent fighter of  pirate thought, lifting up his left arm in front of his eyes to see and note on the damage done from the tigers claws attack on his body. Despite what was done to him, he sincerely wished for the two creatures to remain alright with  no permanent damage done to them, understanding that fact that they attacked them from feeling threatened and that they thought they were the ones in danger. However, he did wondered about the rarity of a rhinoceros being present in the same territory as a tiger. He must have wandered in on the time the the same animal was passing by.

When the adolescent fighter arrived at the desired tree that had the branch from which he had placed his hoodie and blue pack that contained his essential supplies such as food and drink as well as much needed first-aid. It was so he could personally tend to the wounds he had sustained on his left forearm. It was nothing very major nor moderate. It was leaning towards more of minor wounds that only sting, if he should touch them. It was nothing life-threatening, rather something that should be tended to before it became a problem later in the future. The young teenager stopped in from of the tree stem and turned on his feet. He walked behind hit from his right and found his items where he had placed them. When he was an appropriate distance from them, he halted his traversing form. He then, reached up with his right hand and grabbed his blue backpack. He carefully and gently slid it off the wooden extension it hung from. When he got it off  safely, he unzipped it with both hands, feeling the sting of pain in the wounds dealt to his left forearm when he used it. He searched through the contents of the pack with his right palm while hold it with his other. Finding what he was looking for, he pulled out some gauze before putting it in his pants' right pocket and looking through the sack again. He then, took out some cleaner for his wound as to not allow any germs to give him complications within the future his chooses.

He then, laid the backpack down with his left hand and opened the cleaner. Her poured a good portion over his wounds and immediately felt the burn that soon followed with it. He knows it was working, so he simply choose not to complain. He was thankful for Zatania in which she gave him these supplies that help benefited him greatly as he was progressing further through the forest region on Baterilla. When he was finished applying the cleaner to his forearms wounds, he quickly closed up the bottle. He then, kneeled over to his backpack and put it back inside for later use. He stood and search through the right pocket of his baggy pants with his corresponding hand. He was able to pull out the gauze and undid it partly. He quickly started wrapping it over his left forearm, soon feeling relief and it engulfed hit wounds for them to heal up in the near future. When he was finished, he ripped apart the strand that connected the gauze covering his minor injuries and the source. He crouched down and put this object back into his blue backpack. He then, stood and faced upwards, reaching for his favorite hoodie with his right hand. Having grabbed it, he gently and most carefully took it off the branch he hung, keeping his gaze on any obstacle that may cause him to damage he memento from his mother.

When he was successfully able to remove the piece of cyan clothing from the tree branch, he immediately put it on himself. After which, he zipped it up. He likes the fact that, like his other clothes or rather his types of pants, it is inwardly spacious, allowing him much room to move around in and to not have his movements deterred from his highest level of speed when he needed it in battle. He then, knelt down and reached out with his right palm towards his blue pack. He grabbed the corresponding strap and picked it up. He stood and swung it over his shoulders. He then, turned on his feet and began to walking in the direct that was once obscured by the presence of both the tiger and the rhinoceros. It is better, if he were to keep travel. If those two animal regained enough energy, they may desire a rematch with him. Although, he hardly sees that happening. He was certain that they would more likely steer clear of a being who had defeated them. In his own truthful opinion, his choice to keep on moving was so he could move on to the next region of the forest, all while trying his best to steer clear of any possible dangers as he walked.

[RIB (Resting in Battle): 15% = 250 Stamina]

While traversing further into the forest with both of his hands in the pockets of his cyan hoodie, Malik kept himself alert and ready for what danger might surprise him within this landscape. The multitude of trees surrounding him helped to hide various types of presences from the view of individuals. As one might walk pass the camouflaged threats that were covered by the safety of the sheer size of the masses of wood, people of low alertness run the risk of a surprise attack and being inured by an unknown entity. This could includes bandits wandering through the forest, different, yet dangerous animals looking for food, or even marines surveying the area as thoroughly as possible. Whatever dangers that loom around him, the adolescent fighter will be as prepared as he can be, knowing full-well the various types of plant life could be used as cover for the numerous creatures that dwell within the area around him. He must keep note that any animal seen on this island could be hiding around any tree that he found to be in his ever-changing gaze as he surveyed the landscape, being ready for what beast might try to take him down unsuspected. If there were animals or other creatures that were stalking him, they would be making sounds he can notice with his sense of hearing. There are other ways to realize a person or animal's presence with more than just one's eyes such as smell, touch, and taste. Of course, perceiving sound seems more valuable.

"Good, it appears no one or nothing seems to be stalking me. At the moment, I am alone for the time being. All I have to do is keep moving forward until I reach the vast lake where the Sand-Sand Fruit is. Still, this is far from "smooth sailing" as one might put it when the situation become very easy. There were more dangers, even greater than the ones I had faced previously such as those tigers and especially the rhinoceros I had defeated. I may not know what lays up ahead on the path that I now walk with my own two legs, but whatever is thrown my way, I will push through. I just have to keep faith. After all, any fortune I find myself upon is the Lord's doing and I am grateful to him for such gentle acts." The young adolescent fighter thought, now knowing that there was no danger close to him and that he could relax more easily and allow for his wounds to heal themselves. He can also continue to move on in the same direction he was traversing while he still kept alert of his surroundings. Despite how quite and peaceful it seemed at the moment, destruction lurked behind ever corner and should be well-avoided. Even though he remains in question about what lies ahead for him, he was certain he can overcome it with faith and perseverance.

Malik looked up to take a n analytical view of the skies above him. Despite the dense forest covering the terrain he tread on, he can see visible traces of the atmosphere that rest in high altitudes. He took noticed that there was little light present within the sky, which pointed to one sign. It was growing dark and he needed a place to make camp or at least sleep. At night, various types of animals lurk in the darkness, searching for unsuspecting prey they could feast upon. Most of which were on the ground. The answer for this problematic situation is to simply rest within the trees. He looked around for any aforementioned masses of wood that had branches, which could support at least one man. When he spotted an area where he could rest peacefully, he halted his feet. The tree was huge in size and had a large, spacious branch where he could lay on in a tranquil manner.It was to his right a fair distance away. He turned on his feet and began walking in the direction of his makeshift bed for the night. When he had closed the distance, he immediately started climbing the large mass of wood. As he did, he could feel stinging sensations in the bandages that wrapped over the wounds on his chest, back, and forearm. Of course, these sparks of pain did nothing in the process, but letting their temporary existence known. When he made it to the desire branch he wanted to sleep on, he simply laid himself down with his back and head being supported by the tree stem he leaned against.

He took one last look at the sky for today, examining how it appeared now from the time he was searching for a place to sleep at to the current moment he was in where he was relaxing for the night and resting himself. The sky appeared darker and he could see the stars were starting to come out. He could even see the moon. Although, it was not dark enough for it to start glowing brightly as it does ever other night it has been seen lighting the way for many travelers or fascinating those he simply stared at it in wonder, like he was doing. From as long as he could remember, Malik has always held interest in the natural forces, laws, supernatural, and various others forces that help shape the universe. The moon was no exception. The glow it gives off has always soothed him when he could sleep at times. Even it's very appearance relaxed him as he slowly drifted into the comfortable embrace of slumber as he was doing now. He had a day filled with both danger and adventure, which probably exhausted him as a result. Right now, all he wanted was to rest up for tomorrow, so he could continue looking for the Sand-Sand Fruit. From this height, he was obviously safe from the many vicious beast that lurked about in the safety of the night's darkly cover.

The night he had spent sleeping to regain his strength was, thankfully in his own opinion, uneventful. When his sense of hearing could noise of rustling in the bushes and animalistic grunts, he doubt that they would be able to climb at a height of fourteen feet. It was to note that the teenage pirate was high up while he slept in peaceful tranquility. This made him safe from most creatures who would dare to pick a fight with him. He did not like to be disturbed from his sleep or his period of silence, unless it was his friends asking for help for something. Basically, if the animals around this part of the forest, which is where he has has previously, thought he was tough before, wait until the see him cranky from interrupting his sleep. The time he spent resting over night was mostly uneventful, save for the noises that traverse through the atmosphere as a result of nearby creatures. He was thankful that he was able to get a good night's sleep. He inwardly thanked Lord God for granting him the time he desired to recharge his strength for today. He slowly opened his eyes as he struggled to shake off the sleep in them. He let out a yawn to release his body from residual wants of rest as he has had enough sleep for the time being. He reached up to his glasses with his left hand and temporarily removed them from his face. He then, used his right palm to wipe away the tiredness in both his eyes. He started with the one on his left and finished with the other. When he was done, he put his glasses back on his face. He slowly looked around from where he laid down, trying to see anything out of the ordinary since he had fallen asleep. He then, looked towards the sky and saw the sun just starting to rise into the horizon. This signified that it was morning and was time for him to continue his journey for the Devil Fruit.

"Well now, I would say it is time to begin where I left off. To find the lake where the Sand-Sand Fruit might dwell as a result. First, I should check, if it is safe from where I am. Then, climb down and continue on the path I was moving in before I went to sleep." The young fighter thought, wanting to start from where he left off with, but remained cautious as he reminded himself on the possible dangers of the forest. He began to rise from where he was sleeping. When he stood up on his feet, he observed the terrain around himself, checking to sees, if there were any animals wanting to harm him. He saw none within this region of the forest as such he can proportionately remain calm, but he still should retain caution as there was a possibility that anything could take place, logically of course. With no danger looming close to at the moment, he decided to return to the ground. He started to climb down the tree. Once he made it down, he would progress with his difficult quest to inherit the Will of the previous wielders of the power he searches for. When he reached the bottom, he touched the soft soil with his feet. He then, turned in the desired direction and began to move on the chosen path, moving ever closer to the island's lake.

As he he took one step more towards the designation he seeks to approach, he wonders on the appearance of said location. He had a few wandering thoughts of how vast the body of water really was, how far he had to go, and what type of animals dwell in that area of the forest. Obviously, he may see a Banawani, if he should have to explore the lake. Hopefully, he won't run into any of those type of animals. Admittedly, he wasn't sure, if he was strong enough to face such creatures yet. He was damaged by tigers, two of which were only hungry and didn't truly had murderous intent, and a rhinoceros. His defeat at the hands of Steele taught him something. It was knowing that you learn much about battle through loss as one would learn from their mistakes. He knew from the very beginning he wasn't invincible and was bound to lose eventually. He just didn't expect it to be so soon or at the hands of one who has powers from eating a Devil Fruit. While his defeat was indeed painful and took much time for his injuries to heal, he believed this loss has done much to quell his overconfidence. If he kept winning, it may have resulted in sheer pride, which would eventually blind to many truths he had realized. As no one is perfect, no one wins every time. He knew that before and still understands it today. He even realized what defeat was made for.

This concept was made to strengthen those from their lose and help one gain experience on what caused their downfall in battles previously fought. It was similar to what the purpose of mistakes was. To learn from them and help make individuals shape themselves into better people. Everything that was natural was of equal importance in existence. Also, where there is one natural force, it's opposing opposite is present alongside such yin being present with yang. Positive always close to negative. As he continued further into the forest, the sun slowly glided above the skies, reach it's highest point in the horizon, shining it's ever-luminous brilliance across all. Progressing  more on the pathway he had chosen, which consisted of a clear trail of dirt, two mysterious figure came into his site. One took on the shape of a rhinoceros. It would seem he was going to fight another horned battering ram when he gets close enough. However, seeing the other figure intrigued him. It was the shape of a tiger, but far more massive in size, easily dwarfing the rhino. As Malik grew closer, he could make out the characteristics of this feline. Spotting a nearby tree to his right, he quickly hid behind it as to not draw the attention of both creatures as of yet.

As he was observing the the two animals from behind the large tree, the feline in particular, he began to make out the physical characteristics he took notice earlier. The tiger he was staring at was completely different compare to the others he fought. One of it's most notable traits is it's height, standing up to eight feet tall on all fours. Malik had seen some towering beasts in the 16 years he had existed, but not one such as this. To be honest, he was a young and his height was very small compared to other creature, so this might be the first giant of a feline he has meet. Big or not, he will not let sheer size intimidate him. He was never really considered on this characteristic. After all, it was how strong one was rather that the strength of their size. To him, size means nothing. After all, the bigger this tiger was, the slower it might be as well. There were other features that interested the adolescent pirate, also. One was the tiger's white coat coated in pitch black stripes. One of it's more notable traits was a vertical scar going over it's right eyes. It was an obvious sign that this beast had been in much battles and as such had a high amount of experience at it's disposal. It size might not deter it's fight style, but it may probably make it slower, something that Malik could use to his advantage. It was obvious the teenage boy was not going to get through with a settled confrontation. He also suspects that this fight was going to be far more intense that the others he had so far. This would probably mean more severe wounds would be inflicted, especially with the size of the white tiger's paws.

"Well, since I am going to do battle again, I might as well take off my hoodie, so it does get damaged along with my body. The same goes with my backpack. It contains many essential supplies needed for me to be able to make it through this forest as well as heal any major injuries I might sustain as a result of one of these animals being successful in hitting me. Can't waste any time, if I take too long, Zatania might worry. I hope I can finish this fast enough and make it to the lake." The young warrior thought as he started to unzip his hoodie, knowing full-well what might happen, if he were to fight with it on, including his backpack. Speaking of which, he took off the said sack and looked around for any suitable, safe area to place his items. To his left, he spotted a branch up to his height and out of the gaze of both animals he will soon do battle with. He slowly and quietly walked towards it, remaining alert and keeping cautious about his footing as not to make any accidental noise. For all he knew, the white tiger he saw recently might have sensitive hearing. If he were to make a sound, the feline might track it and discover him, which would result in the fight early. This would leave him little time to remove his desired items as many animals were relentless when in battle. He had successfully made to the branch he saw and placed the straps of his blue backpack over it. He then, took off his cyan hoodie and put it over his pack. Afterwards, turned on his feet and started walked back towards the pathway he came here in the first place. When he had arrived, he faced the two animals and shifted to his signature stance when fighting.

The creature, who, from how they were facing each other earlier, seemed to be fighting took notice of a teenage boy. They then, turned there attention towards him, taking his body language as a sign of provocation of combat. The large white tiger began stepping forward. It would seem that Malik was going to fight this massive beast first out of the two. He gave a quick examination on this creature physical build and apparent traits, trying to reveal any weaknesses he can exploit in a fairly manner. From the tiger's appearance, it was not only huge, but seems to be physically fit, having a toned build. This probably meant that it had the stamina to make up for the lack of speed due to it's size. This may allow it to fight to longer periods of time, which would possibly result in a long, hard battle between the two. It would be even more difficult, if the rhinoceros were to join in on the approaching rumble. The white -furred beast stopped an appropriate distance away from the teenage boy, staring down the young fighter with great ferocity in it's eyes that had no effect on the child whatsoever. Of all the tigers Malik has faced so far since coming to this forest, this one seemed the most murderous. Before beginning, this massive creature started to extend it's claws.

The adolescent warrior steadily prepared himself for any movement the tiger before his gaze made. He could tell this enemy was very dangerous, despite lacking certain motives for it's actions. However, it's predatory instinct was more than enough reason to keep on his toes in this battle. Unlike other animals he has been fighting within this terrain, this white-furred creature seemed to be a highly skilled combatant, either that or very experienced. Whichever the case, fighting and prevailing over this massive beast was going to be difficult and probably complex. The first to begin the confrontation was the feline as it hopped towards Malik a good distance. It extended it's right claw and poised to strike at him. See this choice of action, the young fighter saw it as the best move to dodge to his left as moving towards the right would only minimize the damage that he might sustained from this attack as the the tiger's claw will curved in a leftward crescent motion when striking.  He was able to evade the claw-like slash of the tiger by jumping to his left, avoiding any damage he may have sustained, if any wrongful movement were made. Malik saw this as a way for him to counter attack. As he had strength surpassing that of an ordinary human, he was sure that he could inflict pain to something of the same size at this tiger he was battling. After landing on his feet, he rushed toward the left frontal leg of the massive beast. When he was close enough, he performed a kick with his left leg, using strong force when he did as such. he was able to hit the creatures chosen limb. The force of the attack managed to propelled the tiger's leg off the ground, causing the beast to lose balance and fall forward.

Seeing the beast's descending form, Malik quickly moved out of the to avoid being crushed by the tiger's weight. He was able to dodge this fall by move to the far left of the creature. He braced himself for what will follow next as the animal landed with a mighty thud, released a small shockwave upon impact with the ground. The adolescent fighter held up both of his arms in front of him to shield himself from the invisible force. For an animal of this massive size, it was expected to be capable of causing such an event upon falling towards the ground. The young warrior then, heard something on his right. The sound reminiscent of a stampede. Immediately, he recognized what it was as he altered his gaze towards where the sound emanated. Charge straight for him was the rhinoceros he saw earlier. It was close to ramming into Malik with each stride it took towards the novice martial artist. The young fighter decided to take a quick course of action. He was able to partially dodge the assault of the animal that was running towards him by moving to his right, but suffered moderate damage from having the left side of his abdomen rammed into. He felt a sudden surge of pain through his body as he was hit. The force of the impact from this blow propelled him a few feet before he landed on his back. He grunted and he struggled to quick stand from such a blow. Recovering from such an assault was rather difficult. At least it didn't break any of his bones such as when he broke his legs when he fought the Marine Ensign, Steele. It was one of the most physically painful things he has experience since coming to this island.

"That was quite an attack. If that rhinoceros had hit directly, it would have broken a couple of my ribs. I need to be careful." The young brave teenager thought, noting on the danger of getting a direct infliction of damage from the rhino should it success in hitting him completely. When he got up on bot of his feet, he turned to his right and spat out a few drops of blood from his mouth. Apparently, the impact from when he was hurt earlier popped a few blood vessels, but nothing major. He could feel a bruise on the left side of his abdomen, though. If a rhinoceros could do this much damage to his body indirectly, the damage might possibly would have been severe, if he was hit with the full brunt of the animal's body. Standing up on both his feet, Malik noticed that the thick-skinned beast was preparing for another charge as it dug it's right leg into the soft dirt below it. Quickly looking around, the adolescent warrior tried to find a way to keep this animal busy. He then, noticed a large tree behind him. An idea struck his mind as he returned his gaze towards the rhinoceros who immediately started to charge at the teenage boy again. The young fighter readied himself from the stampeding beast of a creature, having formulated a plan that he hopes will work. The adolescent child decided to crouch his legs to give himself more power for when he will propel himself in the air. When the rhinoceros was close enough, Malik jumped a significant height above the animal that would have broken a few of his ribs, if it had rammed into him. He was able to make it over the creature as it rushed through under him. Unfortunately, the rhinoceros did not see what was behind the teenage boy to begin with. Before the animal was a very large tree. The beast dug all fours into the ground, trying to stop it's movement, but still began to slid at the same speed. The rhinoceros ended up hitting the thick wooden stem of the huge plant with it's largest horn first. Due to the force of the impact and the speed at which the creature was traveling at, the sharp bone pierced it's way into the wood.

"Yes, I was hoping that would work. Now, back to the giant tiger I was fighting before." Malik thought, no longer having to concern himself with the rhinoceros at the moment. He can now focus on the massive white feline a figure out a way to take such a large opponent down. The teenage fighter landing on both feet after jumping in the air to avoid the threat of a charging thick-skinned mammal. Turning towards the tiger, he could see that it was started to rise to it's four paws. The young warrior shifted to his combative position, a serious and alert expression etched onto his visage. Now back on it's four limbs, the giant feline searches for any traces of the human child that had tripped him earlier. It looked down to to see that the adolescent fighter was staring right at him. From how big it was, it was obvious that it had trouble looking for opponents of smaller height itself. Personally, Malik didn't see how a tiger of eight feet in eight could miss a boy, who was five feet ten. This animal was practically two feet taller than him when on all fours. He suspect it had poor eyesight, but not as bad as a rhinoceros's. Either way, the white tiger has set it's sights on the teenage child and was ready to tear this martial artist limb from limb. He wasn't going to give this animal that chance.

Moments passed as both sides stared down one another, waiting for either one to initiate a maneuver that would continue to progress the fight further and further until one was left standing. The rhino the adolescent warrior had dealt with earlier still had it's horn lodged into the wood of a large tree he trick it into impaling. It was obvious tat it would take some time for the beast to free itself from the predicament it was in. The giant tiger on the other hand was standing firm as well as Malik. The young novice of a pirate knew he was going to get no where just standing and waiting for the the feline to make a move, so he decided he should be the to continue their confrontation. It was time to use his fighting style's techniques to inflict some serious damage upon the animals body. He just has to reveal a desired opponent for him to land his blows effectively. He first crouches his legs and focuses his vision towards the area under the tiger. From the way he has seen how the beast fights, he can conclude that it relies on attack from side to side with it's claws, which serves as a way to injure more than one opponent. It was just an assumption from seeing this animal do it only once, but he was willing to give that theory a try with this risk he was about to take.

With his position prepared as well as poised for strike range, The young warrior rushed forward with impressive speed. The white tiger before the approaching martial artist did not know how to react to such a individual with immense speed that surpasses the ordinary limits of a human being. As a way to try and counterattack this teenage boy, The large feline lifted it's left paws and try to aim where to strike at. When it could not pinpoint Mali's exact location, it simply swung it's appendage in a a side-sweeping manner. By the time it performed such an action, the adolescent fighter stopped in front of it, surprising the white-furred beast. As the teenage boy was close, he could now initiate his technique he had planned to use  before rushing towards the animals in the first place. It's name was "Fushigin Joushou", an attack consisting of consecutive blows. Firstly, before beginning his assault, the young warrior crouched his legs again. He then, used his left arm to perform and elbow strike towards the large beast of a tiger. The blow was able to connect with the creatures chest, inflicting significant amount of pain to it. The formidable animal growled in anguish as a result and the impact of the strike caused the creature to stop it's assault midway. The young fighter clenched his right hand in a fist and thrusted a powerful punch at the beast's stomach. The attack was able to connect, dealing greater pain and damage to it. To finish up with this technique, the adolescent warrior performed an upper kick with his right leg. The blow successfully connected with the bottom of the the white tiger's chin. The force of the impact of this attack propelled the tiger away from the teenage boy a far distance, measuring up to six feet.

"Yes, it would appear I am getting the upper-hand in this fight. However, I mustn't be cocky at successfully landing those blows onto the physical form of this powerful creature. I have to keep focused. After all, this animal has been in more battle than me." The young martial artist thought, thankful that his technique had completely made contact with the white tigers body. He reminded himself not to swell with overconfidence as he remembered what deadly effect it had on others as he experience first hand when he fought against the ensign known as Steele. He had suffered two broken legs and a few broken ribs as a result.After being launched into the air, the white tiger began to descend six feet away from the boy it fought. The aforementioned adolescent fighter placed his foot back on the soft soil from kicking the white-furred beast earlier. The white-furred animal landed on it's back. When it did, the impact from it's large body cause a small shockwave. It was too far from the teenage brawler to affect him him, but he remained within a offensive stance, prepared for what ever this huge beast of a feline might throw at him. He must be weary of how many of his techniques he uses at a time. Each one requires a certain amount of energy for him to utilize such powerful attacks compared to the ordinary variety. The stronger the technique, the more energy it requires for him to use. If he uses too many of them, pretty soon the usage of energy will temporarily takes it's toll on his physical body. he would have to find a place safe enough for him to rest and regain the energy his spent.

Struggling to arise from the painful blows inflicted on it from the adolescent warrior technique, the tiger stood on all fours and stared down the young fighter. The animal can tell it had taken a significant amount of damage, but it was not enough to put it out of commission. If Malik was going to knock it out, he would have to use his most powerful attack, which would cost him a consider portion of his stamina. He was going to need to get close enough, if he was to get a direct hit from this creature. The large feline crouched it's legs, preparing to charge forth and begin with an onslaught of it's own. Malik readied himself for what was about to come at him. The animal rush forward with impression speed, but the adolescent warrior could still keep track of the large figure. When the beast was close enough, it raised it's right claw and took a quick swipe at the teenage combatant. The attack was quick fast and Malik had little time to react. For now, he just jumped backwards. He managed to avoid some of the attack, but the claws on the tiger's paw was able to land three painful slash-shaped wounds on his left shoulder while also ripping through the clothing that covered it as it should the same markings in the same shape. The damage sustain was moderate and he felt a great surge of pain through his body when he suffered. Landing on both of his, he reached over with his right hand and gripped his wounded shoulder.

The massive feline steadily approached the young fighter, who gritted his teeth in pain from the recent damage he had sustained. This tiger was indeed formidable, but he was not about to lose here and now. While he may experience defeat again later in the future, he wasn't going to lose to a wild animal. If he was, it would be a beast more gigantic that this one before him. The adolescent warrior took in a deep breath, then, exhaled to shrug off the pain he feels from the three slash-shaped flesh wound inflicted on his shoulder. When he is now bearing with the painful experience, he shifted to combative stance and prepared himself. This next attack will certain defeat this huge predator. At that moment, the tiger began to rush towards the teenage boy. The young warrior concentrated on the animal's movement, to be alert at any attack it tries to make. He then, clenched both of his hands in fists, preparing to use his most powerful technique, Hageshii Ryuukyoushuu. It was a barrage of powerful punches that inflict damage externally and internally. As the massive tiger raised it's right claw to strike, the adolescent brawler immediately rushed forward at shocking speed. When he was close enough, he stopped in front of the creature, who was unable to react. Malik then, unleashes an onslaught of punches equaling ten in total. All punches manage to hit the large beast with five hitting it's face and the rest connected with it's chest. Upon all ten blows making contact, the creature received major external and minor internal damage to it's body. The animal stood on it's hind legs roared in agony from the attacks it had suffered, measuring up to 12 feet in height. However, the boy was not finished as he concentrated all of his strength into his right fist to deliver the eleventh and final punch of his technique.

"It is time to finish this, now." The adolescent martial artist stated in his mind, thrusting his clenched palm towards the tiger upon the inward pronunciation of the last word on his sentence. The punch was able to successfully connect with the animal's chest. It released a powerful impact, which cracked a few of the beast ribs. From the apparent build of this creature, it's recent wounds weren't life threatening, but with the succession of his strongest attack, Malik had prevailed and won against this beast.

[Techniques Used: Fushigina Joushou [Tier 2], Hageshii Ryuukyoushuu [Tier 3]: 250 - 25 - 45 = 180 Stamina]

The defeated white-furred creature simple fell backwards, heading for the ground as it could no longer remain stand after enduring the relentless assault of the teenage boy's most powerful attack, Hageshii Ryuukyoushuu. It ended up landing on it's right side and making yet another small shockwave due to it's sheer size. The large creature then, fell unconscious due to the pain and significant amounts of damage it had sustained. Defeating this beast felt as if Malik had accomplished an important task on this journey he was on. He did realize that searching for the Sand-Sand Fruit would be a quest of such difficult he had experience first-hand when fighting against a huge animal such as the now-unconscious white tiger. It was a formidable opponent, putting him in a rather tight space, especially when he injured him when wounding his left shoulder. Speaking of which, the remembering of what happened when he suffered a blow from one of the beast's claws had him reminded of the pain that recently flowed through his body when he sustained this kind damage earlier in his fight with the massive animal. Upon feeling it now that he has noticed it made him noticeably flinched. While these injuries was more serious than the minor wounds he had from being hurt from the regular-sized tigers he previously defeated, it was not enough to be fatal or life-threatening to himself. Still, he should quickly do something, considering how deep the cuts look in his flesh. Leaving wounds of this severity will only make them even worse, unless something is do to clean and heal it. He just need to look for his blue backpack, which contained the supplies he needed to secure that his current, most dire injuries are ensure to heal themselves. Seeing as his white T-shirt is already tattered from various battles he had experienced, he grabbed it's left sleeve his right hand and ripped it off.

"Now, I just have to wrap it tightly around my wounds, so I can properly clean and close it. Hmm, I wonder how the rhinoceros I was dealing with earlier is doing. I suspect it must still be stuck in that tree after I have tricked it into lodging it's largest horn in the wood. With how deep it impaled that plant, I am not surprised it was still trying to free itself. Of well, I could use this time to regain energy I have used for my techniques. I am a little winded from my most recent battle, of course." Malik thought as he torn and refashioned the piece of his shirt's fabric into a cloth he cold tie around his injuries. He wonders what has become of the rhinoceros he has left within the thick-wooded tree after he dodged it's obvious predictable charge and immediate continue he fight where he left off with the now-beaten white tiger. Such a victory isn't without serious wounds, however. He knew, he would inevitable going to experience great pain when fighting against powerful opponents. I was unavoidable in an intense battle. All one can do is prepare to endure major physical punishment that is sure to follow from the event of war, conflict, battle, and chaos. He knew it was difficult to bare through for certain individuals as they may have bodies that cannot handle as much pain as other people, but he has learn many optimistic life lessons while growing up in a family who follows the Word of the Lord, course. Every situation, especially tragedy, that occurs in life always has a fortunate outcome to things. These positive happenings were proof that the Lord watches over all and protects all from evil. All one had to do was believe. The adolescent martial artist immediately started wrapping the piece of fabric over his wounds to lessen the severity and to ease the pain until he can fix it properly with some first aid. When he was finished, he moved his left arm to see, if there was any residual pain present. He only felt slight stings, but easily able to ignore.

"Hmm, this should do for now. Now to see how the rhinoceros is doing." Malik said, turn on his feet to see the current state of the animal he was previous doing battle with. This may be the first time the teenage boy had ever spoken since entering the forest area of the island. Before, he only thought to him on what he should do next and what to make of the situations he found himself in. As a child, Malik never really spoke much, especially in front of others as he was seen as shy. He only talked when some speaks to him. Over time, with a little help, the adolescent pirate came speak on his own terms and not when he was spoken to only. It is thanks to this, he was able to start conversation when he so wanted. He was grateful that he learned to be more open to others. Although, he still retains his shyness as he rarely speaks much, unless he grows closer to those he considers friends. Because evil is allowed to roam the world free, one may never know what kind of person they are talking to really is. This makes is quite difficult to tell who one is or even trust them. One must first get to know others before truly trusting them, but to trust another person, one must trust themselves to do so. For example, Malik trust Zatania after getting to know here. She also seems to be a wonderful person. He wonders how long she has lived to begin with. She seem no more older than he was, perhaps a couple years more. Either, she looked to be more in her adolescence, but, like the teenage boy, acted mature for her age.

When his gaze settled on the rhinoceros, the site the beheld was certainly interesting to say the least. The animal was simply just standing where it was. Apparent it had given upon on trying to get free to pulverize Malik, but it will try against to release itself from the wooden constraints it has found itself bound to. With the threat of the rhino no longer present and the creature not in any visible danger, so to speak, just showing a look of annoyance at the predicament it was in, the adolescent martial artist simply turned on his feet again and began walking in the direction that lead to his backpack and cyan hoodie. This has certainly been an exciting day, in his own opinion. Fighting formidable animals, searching through a jungle like terrain, and even helping lives that were considered his enemies previously such as the two hungry tigers he meet. Despite it's down sides, it did have more fortunate occurrences. When he reached the branch that contained his belongings, he reached out with his right hand. He took his hoodie and placed it over his left forearm. He then, grabbed his blue backpack and held it with both hands. He opened the object and searched through it's contents with his left hand. He pulled out the cleaner for wounds and the gauze. He simply sat down onto the rough soil beneath his feet. Before beginning with cleaning his wound, he put both the cleaner and wrapping material on the ground and began folding his hoodie neatly. He then, sat it on the the grass covered area of the earth and turned to the supplies need for cleaning his injuries.

He quickly undid the cloth-like fabric covering his moderate wounds and threw it inside his blue pack as it was part of the T-shirt he is wearing now. He soon reached over with his right to get the cleaner. He grabbed it and used his left palm to open it. He took in a deep breath and exhaled, knowing that this was going to be painful. He clenched his left hand tightly to brace himself. He began to slowly pour the cleaner over his wounds. Upon contact, the area began to sting, but at the same time, sizzle. This was a sign, that the germs that were covering it were quickly dying off. He quickly sat the cleaner down and reached into his backpack. He pulled a type of cloth and began to wipe away the liquid on his wounds along with the blood dripping from them. He placed the fabric on the ground and took the gauze in his right hand. With his left, he easily unwrapped it and stated bandaging his left shoulder. It was a little difficult as he struggled much due to the angle the wound was on. When he finished, he gave a the line of wrapping a good rip. He finished covering his wounds with one end and placed the other end on the gauze. He then, placed the object back into his backpack and did the same for the cleaner before closing as well as the dirtied cloth. When all content were within it, he soon closed it. He moved his left arm to see how it was doing now with the bandages over his wounds. He felt no stinging sensations, but his shoulder had a slight soreness. He reached over and grabbed his cyan hoodie with his right hand, unfolded it, and put it on. He zipped it up and grabbed the straps of his backpack and slung it over his shoulders.

"Now, to continue on with my adventure." he stated in his mind as he stood from where he sat. he then, turned on his feet and began walked, the pathway he was on no longer blocked by dangerous animals. He had to keep alert, knowing more dangers lie ahead.

[Word Count: 25193 Words]