Task Name: Making a Stand Against the Government: Two Times the Troubles
Tier: 4
NPC or PC: PC
Location: Baterilla Island
Crew, Team, or Personal: Personal
Description: Malik was close to arriving on the other end of the lake and could see and oddly-shaped object within the vicinity. Hoping it was the Devil Fruit he had been searching for all of this time, he is elated to gain incredible power. However, he is suddenly stopped when another ensign and a higher-ranking marine appear as was as a group of lower-ranking soldiers. This man was on a completely different level compared to all the previous soldiers of his faction he had once faced. To get to that fruit, he was going to have to fight them and win. Otherwise, he will be arrested for sure.
Enemy Details: 5 Tier 2 Marines, 1 Tier 3 Marine Ensign, 1 Tier 4 Marine Lieutenant Junior Grade
Boss:

Boss Name: Marine Lieutenant Junior Grade, Davern
Tier: 4
Description: The leading soldier of the group of marines hunting down ambushing Malik as he was about to run up to the Devil Fruit he has been looking for some time now.
Devil Fruit: N/A
Haki Aura: N/A
Equipment: Marine Sword and Gun
Specs:

Hand-to-Hand: 4

Melee Weaponry: 2

Marksmanship: 3

Continuing on his path towards the object of his own personal agenda of righteousness and virtue, the young pirate progressed further around the lake at the center of Baterilla. After defeating the group of marines that had previously ambushed him, he went over to his favorite cyan hoodie where he left it and put it on. He also had acquired his blue backpack that was now swung over his shoulders. The soldiers he had fought with earlier were formidable foes. He knows that more powerful opponents will come his way. When they do show themselves, he will be prepared, even for the worse scenario that may possibly happen. The battle he was in a little while ago were definitely exciting. He hoped for the defeated followers along with their leader to heal well. It will take little time for them to recover and, thankfully, they didn't suffer severe wounds. Malik was not a cruel, cold-blooded killer. He was very merciful, compassionate, and caring towards others, even those he does not know that well. The marines he previously battled were but a some of the individuals he had assisted in the past. In his own opinion, they say that the past is what defines you in the present. This is due to the fact that the choices one has made before have measured up to the person one has become now. However, one always has a chance and the freedom to choose, who they want to be any time. Most people, including the boy, prefer their past just the way it is as everything they had experience and been through had lead up to the present where they are enjoying their life now such as the important factors where one matures in wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. Malik especially grew up with much understanding of the world around him from the Christian's point-of-view. He turned his gaze towards his left, so he could look behind himself. He desired to see how far he has gotten since he had entered the forest region of the island. In his line of sight, he could see he was more than halfway to the Devil Fruit he had been searching for.

"Huh, I would say I am making great progress. I am almost to where the Sand-Sand Fruit is." The young adventurous boy stated as he growing closer to the aforementioned item of his journey. Still, he is not just doing this for himself, he is doing it for his friends and their deceased family. It was to honor them and take up their will. To make certain that a power such as the one he was looking for does not fall into the wrong hands, ever. If an evil being were to claim it for themselves and eat it, they would simply use it to hurt others out of sheer pleasure. Such as how cruelty is. That was part of how evil was and Malik hated it. In fact, evil was the only thing the boy ever truly hated to begin with. He sees no reason to hate anything else. In his own opinion, it was pointless. As a matter of fact, he love d and liked anything and everything. The earth, the plants, the nobility and sincerity of people, the planets, the universe, all of it. It sparked excitement and adventure into the boy's heart. Looking at everything in the terms of the supernatural, the child came to see how everything in his eyes was amazing. One does not know all the mysteries that lies beyond their reach. There were places in the world that practically screamed for adventure and discovery. Ever since he was a little boy, Malik had always been a curious mind. Even as an infant, he wold try to wonder around where he was the first chance he got. Fortunately, his mother was there to pick him up. There were plenty of dangerous areas for children and they could potentially get hurt. As Malik grew, so did his curiosity along with his skill in martial arts. This even include his integrity and strong sense of justice. One thing he has realized about this strong sense of right and wrong is that his race didn't learn it, it was passed down to them by The Lord, which his parent passed down to him. It is through God that we can understand what is right. Malik thanks the almighty, all-powerful, all-knowing, all-seeing Great Father for all that he has done, is doing, and all that he continues to do. Turn his gaze back to what was in front of him, the boy observed the distance in before himself. It turns out that he was very close to the Devil Fruit and that he could actually make out the swirl patterns etched onto it.

If Malik were to eat that very fruit, he would become the new Logia of Sand. He would become a walking desert. Hurting someone made of sand was highly difficult and highly dangerous as they have various other ways to utilized sand that to bury their opponents, or victims for the wicked. The young pirate had his own ways on how to use such power for a good purpose more than just using it for the right reasons. Having other-worldly powers definitely benefits someone in their everyday life. That can do things they could before with such powers and can reach places never before reached. Thinking about excited him. With each step he took, the distance between him and the Sand-Sand Fruit decreased bit by bit. With the claiming of this object, he will fulfill his friend, Zatania's wishes and take on the will of his uncle and her grandfather. She will no longer have to worry and will be able to smile, relieved that someone good to the core of his heart possesses that type of power. Not angry or worry at the thought of an evil, wicked person misusing such power for their own personal gain or out of cruelty. Those very same though irritated him. In fact, the very thought of evil both angered and disgusted him to no end. He was partially relieved, knowing full-well of the fate of all evil. However, those thoughts will simply have to wait as he grew closer to the mysterious-looking fruit he had desired to find all this time. Suddenly, he heard certain, yet familiar noises from behind himself. It was the sounds of footsteps. As they grew louder, he decided to stop and turn on his feet. He then, saw that there were more marine coming towards him. This soldier looked very different from the one he had previously fought before. Speaking of whom, he looked to where he had defeated the other soldier and see that they were alright. They were left to take care of themselves while the new addition of marines slowly approached the young teen on the matter at hand. That same matter being that he was looking for a Logia-Type Devil Fruit. The tall, muscular young man in front of them all appeared to be leading them. As he stopped, so did the soldiers, who were guide by his movement.

"Malik J. Roberts, I heard news that you were giving my men some trouble while looked for the Sand-Sand Fruit. You have recently become a threat to us and to the Government. I cannot allow this to continue as I am force to both arrest and persecute you. Your bounty has grown considerably, sense you have arrived here. It is quite impressive, but also quite shocking. In all my years of fighting pirates, I have never seen one as young as you or with such talent. Before we begin, I would to swiftly get introduction out of the way first. I am Davern, Marine Lieutenant of First Grade. I am above an ensign of one rank, so it is important to know how powerful an opponent you fighting is." The lieutenant said as he explained his reasons for following the young fighter to this part of Baterilla as well as introducing himself along with his rank. From what Malik has knowledge of as well as what this man said, a First Grade Lieutenant is only one rank higher than an ensign. While only above in one rank, this soldier was powerful nonetheless. The boy refuses to only over-confidence or arrogance to cloud his mind as he experienced first hand as what they can do to someone and the position it leaves them in. From the tone this man talks in, it was obvious that he was sure of himself. He must've known that Malik himself was defeated by an ensign when he was first sent to Baterilla's Prison and was certain he couldn't defeat a marine of higher rank. Of course, the ensign did ate a Devil Fruit, which allowed him to increase his speed and strength to a point when he could easily break a person's limbs. He remembered all too well how painful, yet enlightening an experience that was. Defeat is like mistakes, it happens to everyone. What is important is that you take responsibility and learn from them. The wisdom gain from such experiences makes one a better person. He has also learned just because this marine was of a higher rank compared to Steele does guaranteed the outcome. Any outcome is possible depending on the choice a person makes.

[This Task's Boss needs to be controlled by Staff, Just alerting you ahead of time]

(I am noted of that, but Malik isn't fighting against the boss yet, just his followers. I'll alert the admins or moderators when he starts fighting the leader of the group.)

Before committing to combat with these marines, Malik removed his blue backpack from his shoulders. He held it in his left hand before doing anything other action. Like he does with every battle that could potential damage his favorite clothes and pack, which carried his essential items, the boy always took them off and placed in a safe area within the terrain right when he was about to begin the confrontation between him and his opponents. After taking off his pack, he threw it to his left at a fair distance. It ended up landing on the green, leaf-filled bushes closed to his corresponding side. He then unzipped his cyan hoodie and proceeded to take it off as well. Afterwards, he tossed it to where he blue backpack had recently landed. With his favorite and most treasured belongings resting in a safe place at this lake he stood around on it's edges, the young teen was now prepared for battle. He was ready to take on any enemy that had the courage to come up to him and challenge to a future confrontation. Admittedly from the innards of his mind, Malik was excited at the prospect of combating powerful opponents more or as powerful as an ensign. This marine lieutenant must hat have realized that Malik had already defeated a soldier of this ranking. He also had eaten a Devil Fruit. He had the power to create and manipulate silk however he pleased. To this moment, the teenage fighter had no idea that such a substance could be utilized in such a manner. it gave him a few ideas on how to manipulate sand when he gets the chance to eat the Sand-Sand Fruit, but to get to such an object holding such an other-worldly power, the young warrior will have to prevail over this group of marines that are trying to stop. Not only was he going up against the defense Baterilla has against criminals, he was going up against the Government. However, despite the odds placed against him, he didn't care. He didn't even have any fear. He was ready to take on any of these soldier. While not over-confident, he believed he had a chance of victory. These men indeed seemed more powerful, but Malik will simply have to exert himself more. He slowly shifted his body into his offensive stance, ready for who might want to do battle with the boy.

"It would seem that the boy desires to do combat with us, sir. If you may, I will be the first to fight him. Be assured that I will not underestimate this boy. He may be a kid, but he obviously has to possess great talent to be able to come this far in his quest. I will be on-guard at all times and be sure to give it my all." One of the lower ranking soldier's said, wanting to have a chance at trying to defeat the boy that stood in front of them, prepared to begin their confrontation any minute. He stood behind his leader while he spoke, a firm, yet confident tone in his voice. The chief of the group simply turned his gaze back to one of his soldiers and nodded, giving acceptance to the brave young man, who was willing to challenge such a young, but powerful pirate. There were an amazing multitude of fighters in the world of different shapes and sizes. Malik himself was one of many combatants. He was an adolescent boy, but was gifted with power that exceeded the ordinary limits of human beings. Then again, many humans can reach to and far beyond this level of power. A person can do anything he sets his mind to. However, for a child to reach such a level so quick while at such a young age is what is meant for him being so gifted. Some of the marines actually shudder at the idea of how powerful he will become, if given more time to grow. The marines, who spoke to his leader actually welcomed the possibility. With acceptance from his leader, the young soldier began to walk ahead of the others. He soon passed his chief and began closing the distance between him and the teen in before his eyes. Malik can see in the orbs of the man's visage that he had much courage, not caring how powerful the boy was. The teen like that in a person. Ready to face the odds no matter what and never give up. It was an ideal trait in a warrior. The young fighter can tell that this battle may be interesting when it begins. The adolescent warrior took in a deep breath, then, exhaled to relax his muscles. This is to help relieve any strain he may feel from any possible tension he may feel. When the Marine was at an appropriate distance, he halted his movement and switch his position to that of an offensive stance.

Both sides stared each other down as they waited for either one to make a move. The soldiers that stood on the sidelines simply watched from a fair range, not wanting to interrupt the battle-to-come or to stand in the way of the two young combatants. The young marine fighting Malik knows that it is very unwise to underestimate him due to his age, or how long he has lived. He was a talented young martial artist with great skill that kept growing from a young age. The people of his village were quite impressed at his aptitude for combat and how well he caught on. Many considered the boy a natural-born fighter due to his love for a good fight, but for a good reason and his desire to become stronger, which is closely linked to his dream to become a hero and a legend, the greatest legend in existence. He knows it will be a long journey, but he knows that one day that his name will be etched throughout all history, beyond the end of time. A hero that will inspire many to follow their dreams, uphold justice in their own way, and kept a firm sense of integrity. This will be to the point of those young aspiring warriors becoming heroes themselves. To begin the first of the many matches that will be faced with the marines in the group confronting him, Malik rushed forward with a burst of speed. He clenched his fists to ready himself for attack his enemy. The marine soldier fighting him prepared for what type of offensive may come his way. He never did get to see how the boy fights. Unfortunately, it will result in multiple bruises and significantly dealt damage. When the boy was close enough to the young man, he temporarily stopped and turned on his feet toward his left. He then, quickly moved to the soldier's right side in a quickly of movement. The soldier was surprised by this such change of direction, but he didn't let it lower his guard. When the teen was in accurate position, he performed a swift kick with his left leg aimed. The young marine lifted his right arm in a defensive manner. He was able to block the attack that Malik initiated with little difficulty. Quickly retracting his left leg and placing on the ground, the adolescent fighter proceeded with his assault by slightly crouching. He then, reared back his right fist as if he was going to attack.

"Is he going to continue with a punch. That should be easy to block, like that kick he did, recently." He thought as the soldier positioned himself defensively, so he could guard against the apparent thrust of the boy fist that may come. However, this was simply a ruse to allow an opening to show itself. When the man was in the proper position and suddenly performed a kick with his right leg, catching the marine without any way to defend at such a close range. The teenager's attack was able to connect with the left side of the young man's face. the force of said blow threw him off-balance slightly. He temporarily staggered off-course from the recent kick delivered to his head. The boy retracted his limb and put it firm on the ground. While dazed, the marine was momentarily defenseless. He He reared back both of his fists and performed a barrage of six powerful punches. Each one managed to land in the man's chest. Watch from afar, the leader of the group of marines part of the confrontation with Malik could see that the young warrior's fighting style composed of clever tactics, skillfully used intelligence, and fierce brute force. It was a powerful combination indeed. The chief of the squadron would have to be careful not to get caught in one of those painful barrages himself. that is, if he can find a way around the child strategies. He was an intelligent boy, who combined his mind with sheer power. It would be difficult bringing down an enemy of his level of martial arts. With the concussive force of the boy's punches, the young marine jumped a few feet back to gain some distance and try to recover from the damage he suffered. He placed his left hand over his chest from where he had been dealt the six painful blows he endured. From what he felt, it simply minor damage and nothing tragic. He could see in the boy's eyes that he was a merciful person, which the soldier was thankful of. Now it was the marine's turn to go on the offensive. He shifted to one of his combative stances to prepare for his own form of assault. Malik stood firm and ready for what the soldier may throw at him.

The young soldier of a marine dashed forward at an rather fast pace. He was intent on defeating the boy by giving all he had. A term used to describe fighting at his fullest. It was the teen's turn to see how this man fought. So far, he has seen him guard against his attacks. He didn't even get the chance to see his fighting style due to the fact that the boy started the battle to begin with. He was so close to the Devil Fruit he desired to claim, he supposed he become impatient, or more like excited at the prospect of fighting powerful opponents on a level higher than ensign. As the man grew closer to his adolescent enemy, he clenched both of his fists. It was time to show the child what he knows of martial arts. When he was close enough to the young fighter, it was time to initiate his own form of offensive. The boy prepared for what he may perform. It could be an unpredictable maneuver he had recently showed or a straightforward method. The marine immediately reared back his right fist and thrusted it forth. See this action, Malik took one of the easiest forms of defensive reaction and raised both of his arms in front of him to guard against the attack. What the teenager didn't see was the fact that it was to get him to leave an opening somewhere on his form. When the man's right fist was close enough, he immediately diverted it to his left, creating a fake out maneuver. This definitely surprised Malik as he never seen many of his enemy's tried this tactic. Quickly after he faked punching the young fighter, he thrusted his left fist under his right arm. Due to be preoccupied by the attack that he thought was going to hit him, the teen was left with little choice, but to endure it out of nowhere. The punch managed to successfully connect with the child's gut. This cause the boy to bend over and inaudibly grunt in discomfort. This attack was obvious somewhere between minor and moderate damage. He can handle this with a certain amount of effort with any injury to his body. He was a very enduring body as well as durable. He became more so with the more experience and battles he continue to fight. Unfortunately for the adolescent warrior, the marine wasn't finished yet with his own for of onslaught. It was simply the beginning of his current tactic.

"This is but a taste to come, Malik J. Roberts." The soldier simply stated within the innards of his own mind. Removing his left fist from the boy's gut, he then performed a knee strike with his right leg. It ended up hitting the teenager within the same area, causing more discomfort as a result and making him grunt is further displeasure. The young marine of a formidable man quickly retracted his limb and placed it onto the ground. He performed another kick with his left leg. This one traveled in a crescent motion. With the discomfort suffered from the previous two hit he had sustained on his physique, Malik was unable to react in time for the third strike that travels towards his way. The attack was able to connect to the right side of his head. the force send a shock throughout the boy body, which only serve to intensify the pain he felt. The strength of the kick threw him to his left a few feet. While still feeling the after effects of the man's latest attack, Malik was able to react in time to make a quick recovery. He held out his hands as he fell straight towards the sot ground. He successfully caught himself on both of his palm. He bend his arms to cushion himself the amount of force he gained from fall, softening the landing. He then, pushed himself up in mid-air and performed a flip, landing safely on his feet, but within a crouched position. This form of recovery was quite impressive. He had practiced recovering from falls and off-balancing strikes when he was a kid. In which his mother taught him how to immediately get back on his feet when he was knocked down and before he was about to landed harshly on the dirt. The marine he was fighting was in sudden shock as he had no idea he could perform such an action while hurt. Despite he recovery, Malik still felt the painful endurance from the blows he suffered. He shook his cranium to try and brush off some of the daze. He then, stood up from where he was crouching and turned on his feet to face the soldier that was his opponent. The boy shifted his stance to a more offensive position, ready to continue the confrontation.

"Now that is something" Was all the marine the young warrior was fighting could say as he never seen or meet an opponent such as him before. After be thrown to the grown, he recovers and stands back on his feet without landing on his back with a thud. Instead, he simply avoided that painful collision with flesh and earth. This boy has a fire in his eyes he never seen before. It was certainly an uncommon occurrence to fight against such an opponent. The soldier quickly snapped himself out of his daze of awestruck and shifted to a more combative position to prepare for what the child had in store for him. This boy could use his techniques to immediately inflict damage onto this man and be much closer to obtaining the Sand-Sand Fruit. Still, if he were to constantly utilize such powerful moves without a break whatsoever, he would immediately tiring out. He would be exhausted before the most intense battle began and he would've lost before any of them began. He know better that to blindly and poorly utilize his techniques. It was how many times or how much, it was how you use it to begin with. It was the same with power. This man could have more than he possessed, but without any proper training on how to better use, he would be at a disadvantage, since Malik knows how to and when to use his techniques. These were one of those times where he didn't require any one of his powerful moves he made himself. He will conserve such powerful attack such as those for more powerful opponents or when they are needed. Malik will simply wait for the right moment and initiate said technique and significantly damage the marine he was doing battle with. Ready to presume where he and the soldier left off, the young fighter rushed forward, newfound vigor evident in his eyes. The young man kept a steady stance as the boy approaches him. It would seem all those blows only serve to increase his energy and enthusiasm. This child was indeed powerful. A few blows were obviously not enough to keep him down. In fact, all it has done, besides the inflicting of damage, is got his essence flowing through his entire being. He knows that this is a battle that will be well-fought.

"Now it is my turn, marine." The boy simply stated as the distance between him and his adversary decrease foot by foot, inch by inch. When the teen was close enough to the young man, he momentarily crouched down and leaped high into the air above the. The marine never expected a mid-air maneuver from the child. The adolescent warrior seemed to focus more on battle close to the ground. Apparent, his fighting style allows him to adapt to any place, similar to how humans can adapt to any environment they find themselves in. A clever characteristic to place in his own style. Quite unfortunate for the soldier battling this boy. While in the air above the man, Malik initiated a frontward flip. Immediately after, he performed a heel drop with his left leg. The young man held up both of his forearms in an defensive manner to defend against this attack. He was able to block the heel drop successfully. However, Malik was not finished with his assault. He was far from done. This was simply a small part of his onslaught and things to come. Using the forearms of his enemy, who was defending against his current attack, the boy simple kicked off of the man's arm, back flipping as a result. The force of the push the child generated from jumping off of the marine's forearms caused the soldier to stumble backwards slightly. The young fighter landed on both of his feet successfully without an injury whatsoever. Before the man can regain his footing, the adolescent warrior quickly rushed towards him at blinding speed. He clenched both hands into fists to prepare for another barrage of punches of a certain type. When the child was close enough, he swiftly stopped in front of his opponent. He then, quickly pulled back both of his curled up palms and unleashed a barrage of punches that measured up to four in total. Fortunately for the marine, he was able to react quickly enough to minimize the damage that the attack would have caused. Malik was able to land two firm punches onto the man's chest successfully before he moved both of his arms in front of the targeted area to block the other two of the onslaught. The attacks that landed caused the soldier to flinch in discomfort. This was just the second part of he boy's strategy. There was more to come.

Malik jumped backwards a couple of feet to gain some distance between his opponent and himself. He immediately rush forward while at the same tie reared back his right fist to launch another attack of the previous variety. With how fast the boy was moving, it was quite difficult to keep track of the boy's movements. When the child was close enough, he thrusted his fist over the area of the man's body that was guarded by his forearms. With the sudden maneuvers and the quick reaction to protecting his chest from any further punches, the soldier was left unprepared for any further attack. The punch was able to hit the man square in the face. The force of the blow caused him to grunt in pain. He stumbled back a few feet in discomfort, raising both of his hands to cover his face out of agony. The fact that he couldn't temporarily see was simply a bonus to the boy. Still, being the fair combatant he was, he decided to allow the man to regain his sight and his balance, so they could continue on equal terms, standing where he was while he waited.. Despite how close he was and excited he was to claim the Devil Fruit he sought after for his friend and their deceased loved ones, that still wasn't a reason to make it an unfair fight with his opponent. Even if they happen to fight unfairly themselves. He was fight with integrity, with righteousness and justice. That was how he grew up through the Word of the Lord. Oh, how he loved God Almighty. The marine stopped stumbling back and removed his hands from his face. He found is teenage opponent to be standing and, apparently, waiting for the soldier to regain his composure. It was rather generous of the young warrior to be doing something for a person to be his enemy. From Malik's point-of-view, while he may be the boy's adversary now, he was not an evil person. The adolescent fighter could see that in the young man's eyes as he was doing what he believed was right and trying to stop the young pirate from achieving his current objective. It was quite virtuous for a marine such as this one he was fighting. It was a firm belief he could respect as he had a certain own belief much like his. Of course, he had plenty of belief he lived by and they were all of God's Word. It was ever so thankful to his Great Father.

"I must admit, I never expected a pirate such as yourself to be playing fair, but then again, there were many individuals out in the world who behave differently. I suppose I am thankful for the fact that you decided to allow me to regain my balance and sight, I thank you." The soldier said, expressing his surprise as well as gratitude for the amount of generosity that Malik had shown to him during their fight. The other soldiers, who watched from the sidelines, were surprised as well from the young warriors actions. They never would've thought that a pirate could show such nobility. Of course, their were pirates and marines of all shapes and sizes. So, it was not rare or uncommon to find some, who didn't fit the description of what a marine thought of a pirate as. Malik on the other hand was virtuous, righteous, and kind at heart. He seemed more like a a heroic person rather than a beastly barbarian. Of course, that very idea would simply be brushed off by him. It wasn't what others thought of someone. It is what that same person thought about themselves. Malik sees himself as a strong-willed, courageous, selfless person. He especially thought of himself as heroic. As a response to the man's form of gratitude, the boy simply nodded to what the soldier said with a small smile. With this little exchange of thankfulness quickly over with, both fighters resumed their combative positions. It was time for the teenage warrior to finish his assault he had devised. This next blow will be one of unpredictability. He was certain it will surprise anyone, who observed him from a fairly easily readable distance, or at least at a range where he was visible in their vision. To continue where the confrontation between him and the marine he was battling with, he boy charged forth with a burst of speed. The soldier remained in a defensive position, unknowing of what tactic the adolescent fighter may try. It was difficult to guess what an intelligent boy such as him would do next in a battle while within a situation of this type. When the young martial artist was close enough, he slipped to his opponents left side. This fluent motion left the man wide open for another onslaught Malik has planned for him.

"Now to strike" The young pirate stated within his own mind as he stopped his movement on a temporary note. He opened his right palm and stiffed his fingers straight. He quickly reared back his hand and jabbed towards the soldier's abdomen on his left. That point for infliction of damage was unexpected from the boy. Still, as the man saw what may possibly come, he held up his left arm to help guard against this kind of attack. The marine successfully defend himself against this unprecedented choice of attack. However, Malik had other ideas on bypassing this man's defenses. Retracting his right palm, the child rotated counterclockwise. In that moment, he clenched his left hand into a fist and slammed it behind the marine. The blow was able to connect with his back. The force of the impact was great, so much that it caused the soldier to released a momentary sound of pain soon afterwards. He stumbled forward, trying to find his balance yet again. To finish up with his assault, Malik performed a powerful kick with his right leg. He was planning to end this battle rather quickly. He didn't have all day to battle these marines as long as possible. There was a close friend waiting for him to return home safely. The very thought of him in danger probably worried her. Though, from what the boy had witnessed from all the time he has spent with her, she would most like put on a confident facade to avoid worrying those close to her. Despite how assuring of herself she seemed, he could see in her eyes that sheer apprehension. It was close to being natural to worrying for someone you care about. Those you hold dear to you are the first people one should protect, your family and friends. Malik's own family and friends were safe, but the fact that he was in danger now or later would obvious make his own friend worry. This is why he has to hurry and defeat this marines as quickly as possible as Zatania must be greatly anxious about whether he is okay or not while he traveled through this rather dangerous terrain on Baterilla. Many, if not all, of the islands inhabitants knew what deadly obstacles lie within these boundaries of the forest present around the teen and his enemies, more notably, the Bananawani.

The powerful kick he initiated manged to land in the back of the neck of the soldier he was battling. The force of the blow caused the man to widen his eyes in shock as the strength of the attack was felt throughout his entire body. The force of the hit propelled the young marine forward a few feet before he plummeted towards the soft ground below him at the boy he was fighting. It would seem he was another one of his defeated opponents, triumphed over the impressive power this boy possessed. It was a difficult task to accomplish in the heat of battle, but Malik had claim victory. Of course, it wasn't something to celebrate right now. Winning was simply within the moment. Greatness was and is eternal, ever-lasting. The marine landed on the soft dirt with a thud emanating from the collision of his body with the solid earth. He immediately fell unconscious after the event settled. The teen then, place his right foot back on the ground. He turned on his two feet to face the other marines, who were observing both of the combatant giving all they had. Truthfully, Malik was conserving his strength for his technique. It was when he really needed to utilize them against very powerful opponents. It was obvious the pitting their lowest-ranking soldiers against this child was not the best strategy. They also can't send multiple opponents in to outnumber and set an unfair match. They would simply be sinking to the level of most of the pirates they have defeated and captured. Deciding to not simply stand where h was, the teen started to walk over to his fallen opponent. When he was close enough, he knelt down to the unconscious man's right and swung his arm over his shoulder. He then, stood up carrying the young soldier while he peacefully breath in and out. He walked over the other soldier, who had witnessed his battle earlier. Most of them were stunned at how powerful he was. Seeing a teenager fight in such a skilled manner was unheard of from where they lived. When he was close enough, one of the lower-ranking soldiers quickly walked up to the the duo and took his unconscious comrade off of the boy's shoulders.

After relieving the the young teenage fighter of carrying their comrade, the young low-ranking soldier simple turned on his feet and began walking back into the quiet fray of his group, making sure that the unconscious man gets tended to along with the fact that he wanted to relieve the young fighter the trouble of no longer having to carrying the rather heavy body of the soldier's comrade. The other marines simply stood out of one of their teammates' way. The boy was certain the young man was going to take his defeated opponents to a safe place for him to recover. There now leaves the question on who was going to challenge the teen next. The marines present were very honorable, including their leader, which they loyally follow. However, after seeing how easily the boy dealt with one of their own, not without putting much effort into it, though, they know that fighting him one-on-one would be highly difficult. They needed some one of greater power from their group, they needed their ensign. Since one of their low-ranking soldiers gave Malik plenty enough trouble during his first battle with one of the fold of marines, they were assured that their ensign as well as their second-in-command would have a much greater chance of prevailing over this teenage warrior. The many soldiers turned towards the aforementioned person, who simply standing next to his leader on his right side. He turned his gaze and looked towards them with a stern, yet gentle expression. He could see the looks in their orbs. They told him they needed their second-in-command as they know each one of them would be at a large risk of being dominated by the adolescent fighter, if they choose to battle him under the current conditions they abide by from the lieutenant's orders. He simply gave all the current marine staring at him a firm nodded of his cranium. It was a sign that he whole-kindheartedly accepts to fight against Malik Roberts next with a smirk on his face. It was true from what he witnessed before. This child was no opponent that could be taken down easily. It would seem he was going have to continue the confrontation his group and the teen had with each other. For some reason, getting this Devil Fruit appeared important to the child. He will know soon enough when he traverses over to where the boy last fought and do battle with him. He turned his gaze towards the said young warrior. Catching a glimpse of what was within his eyes, the boy simply nodded with a small smile.

The young teen turned on his feet and walked towards the small region of earth from where he previous defeated one of the soldiers in a good, intense fight.  Now that he looked at the spot where he was combating against the now unconscious man before, it was various spacious and decorating the ground was soft dirt that with benefit those unfortunate enough to fall harshly onto the ground. He remembered the feeling of the cotton-like rumble touching his hands and serving to cushion his recovering fall. It was certainly convenient in causes where a fighter happened to lose his balance. When he was sure of himself that he was at a far enough distance away from the group, he halted his movement and turned on his feet. He now face the group that was apparently trying to ambush him. While at a far distance, the marines were still in view, making it fair. Remembering the dirt that had stuck to his hands when he recovered from being knocked over towards the ground, he lifted his hands into the view of his sight. Seeing as how they have been dirtied from making contact with the soft earth beneath his feet, he decided to do something about it. He patted his palms against each other in a wiping motion, successfully removing the dirt he had accumulated in such an area. Afterwards, he let both his arms fall to their corresponding sides and simply waited for when he next opponent will approach with vigor in tow. The ensign standing to the right side of the groups leader began to walk forward, no fear or anxiety evident in his eyes. All that could be seen was courage and willpower. Malik can tell that this battle was going to be far more difficult to achieve victory than the last confrontation he had with one of this man's comrades. Despite the odds that he was now facing, he was not worried at all himself as evident by the confident visage he wore. In fact, he welcomed the chance at a challenge. Fighting with little to no reason served no purpose. One would simply be fighting mindlessly without a proper goal to strive for or any sort of motivation. There was always something that motivated a martial artist, no matter how complex or simple. They fought for something, with reason, not as barbarian, but as amazing warriors. That is how many people, who have come to know Malik saw him as when he was fighting himself. The boy will have to be careful. He could see that this man he was facing was stronger than the last opponent he triumphed over.

"You, Malik J. Roberts, the pirate with a bounty more than one million. I hope I am not prying on anything you would like to keep to yourself, but I simply ask on why is it so important for you to claim this Devil Fruit you were after so badly?" The ensign asked out of curiosity, wanting to know the reason behind the boy's actions. It was an innocent enough question, simply with the goal to figure out the reason on why he was searching for it and why he desired to claim and eat it. The boy took a few moments to collect himself before answering the question he had been asked recently. He took in a deep breath as he inhaled. Then, he exhaled to calm himself. He searched for the precise words he could use for a situation like this. This people he was fighting against didn't have to know the entire story. Despite not wanting them to know too much, Malik could lie. He was compulsively honest as he knew within his heart that lying to others was wrong. However, with the boy's gifted intelligence, he obviously found ways around to not telling the complete truth and at the same time not lie. He wanted to keep his own reasons for why he desired to have the Sand-Sand Fruit as something personal. This was something he could only speak to his friends and family about. He was not even sure he should let him in on such details. For the marine ensign continuing to slowly approach the child, all he had asked was a simple question to try and see more of the kind of person this boy was. He will understand when he refused to talk to him about such information. The opponent he was facing was a teenager and many of them were very emotional as well as keep certain things to themselves. The changes their body go through affect them in various ways. The ensign himself remember what it was like to be a teenage boy with raging hormones. The attraction of women was indeed powerful, but he learned to get a hold of it. He wonder's how this boy was fair with his own hormones. Malik, from where he stood, was handling the changes that occur in his body very well. He understood that a persons emotions were a choice, like everything else they chose to do. He also understood that these urges were simply a part of him and he rules over them, like man should rule over sin.

"Truthfully, I am uncomfortable with talking to anyone about that subject other than my friends. However, I will tell you that it is not out of greed or selfishness. That is not the kind of person I chose to be." The skilled young warrior said, answering the ensign's own question. While not much an informative answer, the marine could see in the eyes of the young aspiring hero that he was a virtuous soul. He was not doing this for himself, but rather for someone else. When the soldier was close enough, he stopped in front of the boy. He was now ready to do battle with this child and see the true extent of his power. He could see in this teen's previous battle that he was conserving much of his energy. It was appear that he was saving his true power for more powerful opponents. He was most certain that was the case with this boy. The ensign switch from his calm, stern stance to a more offensive one in this manner. Malik followed up with shifting his own position to one of a more combative type. It was time to begin their confrontation with the remaining marine soldiers observing them from a fair distance. The ensign was the first o begin this battle. He dashed forward with a burst of speed. As he did, he clenched both of his hands into fists. The young fighter quickly shifted his offensive stance to something more defensive, so he could guard against whatever attack the man had ready to throw at him. When the soldier was at an appropriate distance, he slid under the boy, bypassing his firm defenses. He then, stopped just behind the child's body and immediately turned on his feet and stood up. He reared his left fist back and positioned his right to do the same. It took the boy a short amount of time to figure how where his opponent was, but it was certainly quick enough. The ensign released a barrage of six punches in total, ready to inflict blunt damage onto the child's form. All of the blows managed to connect with the teen's back, causing him to grunt in discomfort from the minor damage he now endured. This force of this assault caused him to stumbled forward slightly. Suddenly, the adolescent warrior immediately turned around and rushed toward the man he was fighting. He clenched both of his hand into fists as well and right his right back. The marine was stunned by this sudden recovery of the boy to a point he left an opening in his defenses. When the child with close enough, he thrusted his right fist forward. It managed to hit the man firm in his chest, causing him to gasped for breath as it is apparent the boy knocked the wind out of him.

Following up with the successful connect of his fist into the marine ensign's chest, the teen fighter quickly retracted it. He then, performed a firm, yet powerful roundhouse kick with his right leg. In terms of which limb he was utilizing for this type of maneuver, he was rotating in a clockwise manner. With the sudden stunning of the punch to the man's chest, he tried to regain his breath. This action temporarily left him vulnerable for the boy's follow up on the succession of his previous attack. The heel of his foot was able to hit the marine on the right side of his face. The force of the blow was such that it managed to push to his corresponding side by a few feet. The strength of his roundhouse caused the man to stumbled slightly. The boy immediate retracted his foot and gently placed it on the ground. He then, shifted himself into a combative position in order to prepare for the counterattack he knows the young soldier will use as a form of retaliation to the damage he has suffered from the previous blows of the teen's. When the young man stopped stumbled where he was, he stood firm and shook his head to shake away the daze in his vision. He then, switched his stance to a more offensive position. Afterwards, he rushed at the young warrior with impressive speed. The soldiers watching from the sidelines can see he was getting his blood flowing. If that was the case, then, this battle that he was fighting with the adolescent fighter was going to become more intense in as it goes on. When the ensign was close enough to the child, he immediately slid to the teen's left. He curled up his fingers in his open palm and thrusted it forth. The boy prepared for what ever attack it was. He held up his left arm to guard against, except it never came. The thrusted right palm of the marine soldier suddenly stopped in front of the boys left arm. The teenager's expression began to appear perplex by the unknown action of this man. Then, from out of nowhere, he clenched his left hand into a fist and thrusted forward. It flew pass the by's defending left arm and hit him square in his right jaw.

The moment the ensign had hit him, the young fighter realized that he had performed a fake out. He had done this earlier. It was a way to divert an opponents attention and confused them. It was a variation on trying the unexpected on a martial artist's enemies. Many, who know of martial arts, usually try unexpected maneuvers alongside fighting styles that best suit them while in battle. It provided the said fighters with plenty of openings they can choose from. The force from the punch that Malik had sustained managed to propel him to his left side. The distanced he was pushed in said direction was up to four feet. He immediately stopped himself where he was as his body was dangerously etching closer to the reptile-filled waters of the island's lake. The Bananawani were a very dangerous race of alligators. They were gigantic in size and would even prey on the Sea Kings. Their ferociousness was unrivaled by other members of their species. It was quite dangerous to get near them. They would attack anything that came close enough to them. It was to the point that getting close or entering the waters of this dangerous lake was that these animals rose from the unknown depths of this body of liquid and strike down at whoever was unfortunate enough to enter in their domain. Knowing full-well what would happen to anyone who fell into this lake, Malik crouch both of his legs and jumped away on his right. It was up to a distance of five feet. He successfully landed on the soft dirt of of the earth below him. Taking this time of self-positioning to his own advantage, the marine ensign rush towards the child in a burst of impressive speed. He believed this was the time to attack now as he was obviously distracted by keeping his distance away from the dangerous lake close to him and the soldier. The man himself know of what lurked in Baterilla's center. As powerful as he was, even he could not take on one of the Bananawani by himself. One would require an entire squadron to secure and capture such a beast. As Malik was focused on stay away from the body of water close to him due to the species of alligator that dwell within it's depths, he was left wide-open for a powerful attack. The ensign clenched both of his hands into fists and reared them back, preparing for a type of maneuver he had come up with on his own.

"Hmph, now is my chance to strike while it is out in the open." The soldier simply stated within the confines of his own mind as he grew closer to the teen he was battling. When he was at an appropriate enough distance to deliver his devastating blows, the ensign thrusted both of his fists towards the child. As he was so concerned on staying away from the lake, he let his guard down, making him vulnerable to whatever the man had in store for the teenager. Both of the blows was able to land in the boy's chest. The force of such an attack caused the adolescent fighter to bend over in pain and grunt in discomfort, but only inaudibly. The marine retracted both of his clenched fist from his recent offensive. He then, performed a knee strike while utilizing his his right leg. He was able to successfully hit the child in the left side of his abdomen. The force of the blow pushed him off of his feet. He plummeted to the ground without any sign of recovering. Immediately raising his right hand, the teen protected his body against the fall, catching himself as it made contact with the soft dirt with his left knee meeting alongside it. He took in a deep breath. Then, exhaled to relax himself from the damage he had sustained. It was felt to be significantly moderate. Also, from the strength of the attacks, Malik can tell that this man was on a much higher level compare to the soldier he had previously fought earlier today. Still, it wasn't near the strength of Steele while he was in his hybrid form when he used his power. At least he didn't have any broken bones. He quickly stood up and planted both of his feet on the ground. He quickly turned around and faced the marine now standing firm on both of his feet as well. The teen shifted his position to a more combative stance as he prepared to continue on with his confrontation. It was his turn to inflict pain upon his opponent right now. He gave a small smile towards the young man he was battling. It was a sign that he was excited at the prospect of fighting an opponent much stronger than the soldier he defeated in the early past.

Without warning, the boy rushed forward at blinding speed. It was seem he has been pushed to exert more of his power than in his previous battles. It was to an extent that he surprised the soldiers watching him and the ensign, who also looked stunned at how fast the child was moving. This was obviously a result from the experience he had gain from his many fights within the past. Battles, which have molded him into a much more powerful martial artist than before. He was now so powerful that his bounty was within the millions and just simply kept growing. Pretty soon, he will be seen as a danger to the government. The moment he had a bounty place on his head, the moment he became a pirate. True pirates were wanted by the organization of marines, who protected the world under the Celestial Dragons. The greater the number, the greater their strength is measured. Of course, there were pirates who had bounties that were frozen and no longer indicated their complete strength. At least they gave an estimate of how strong they were. It was obvious bounties tied to both the power and danger of the government's proclaimed enemies. Of course, which factions one was a part of didn't determine which side they were on in terms of morality. That is decided by one self. A person could be a pirate and still be as righteous as a marine. Unfortunately, the same goes for a marine, who chooses to be as beastly and vile as a criminally insane pirate. As the teenager grew closer the soldier he was battling in this intense confrontation, he clenched both of his hands into fists. When he was close enough, he started to jolt from side to side in a zigzag motion. It was difficult to tell were he was going to strike when one didn't have the proper pattern down. When he was to the marine's right side, he crouched down and slid to his left. Immediately, he started to focused a much of his strength within his right hand as he could. He then, gave a sharp thrusts towards the young man at a fast rate. Do to being daze at the child movements, the soldier was a bit caught off-guard from the teens tactic and was unable to stop the attack. It was able to successfully land in his left jaw, delivering a powerful concussive blow. The force of the tech send him off of his feet. He momentarily flew through the air for only a few moments before plummeting towards the soft earth. He landed with a thud and remained there for some time.

[Techniques Used: Ryuutakashi: 250 - 15 = 235 Stamina]

Malik simply stood where he was an waited for any reaction from the marine soldier after he suffered a directed hit from his technique, "Ryuutakashi". It was obviously a more powerful punch compared to any ordinary hit require one's fists. Quickly, the young man's body begin to move. He started to lift his arms. They rose off the the ground and his hands were now placed on the dirt. With the exertion of some of his strength, he was able to push himself up He move the rest of his body as he struggled to stand. The force of that last punch was incredible. It was to an extent that it was easily considered enhanced strength. This body possessed traits that surpass the ordinary limits of human beings. He was far more power than the previous battles he fought in lead on. From how he knocked down the marine he was fighting at the moment, he was definitely not a fighter to be taken lightly. Such intensity from one firm, yet incredibly powerful punch was an indication that this battle could go either way. Malik has plenty experience when dealing with a marine of this level of power. He may have lost against one ensign, but prevailed victoriously over another. He must be careful on what techniques he uses, though, as the more complex and powerful they are, the more energy they take to utilize. If he were to initiate more powerful technique in rapid succession, he would be exhausted before the real battle began. He wouldn't be able to lift a finger to battle against the leader of this current group he was doing battle with. With enough effort and after a short amount of time had passed while the young teen waited patiently, the soldier stood on both of his feet. He clasped his hands together in a wiping motion, patting them together to get any dirt off of his palm that may have stuck to his skin upon contact with the solid earth beneath him. When he was finished with cleaning the innards of his hand, he turned on both his legs and face the child, who had originally knocked him down. As he previously perform a similar action on the child before, it is to say that it was payback from when the confrontation between these two warriors was just beginning.

"It's time that we end this battle. No more wasting time." The young fighter stated within the confines of his own mind. He was ready to finished this exchange of attacks between him and his current foe. Whether he win or lose, he gave it his all. However, he could afford to lose now, at the moment. He was fighting for more than simply victory. It only lasted so little time. The greatness that followed was eternal, ever-lasting. Even then, that is not was he was truly fighting for. It was for the relief and happiness of a good friend he has come to know in the time he has spent with getting to know her. It was to honor their loved ones, who are now enjoying their joyous eternity in the afterlife, the life after death. They were resting happily in the Kingdom of God, Heaven. It was described as the Ultimate Paradise, the home to all divine beings. One truly lived, like a god or king in such a place. All there is to do is live by The Word of God while one still dwells in their flesh and blood, which seemed easier said than done. People live on Earth for decades before passing away peacefully to the next life. On the bright side, their was still plenty of time to change and do was is right, live by integrity and make The Lord proud. Both fighter shifted their  positions to more offensive stances, ready to settle what has been going on for quite some time. They both kept their concentrated gazes focused on one another, waiting for who will make the next move. The marine observing them from a fair distance waited patiently for the outcome of this battle that is occurring within their own gazes. It was apparent enough that this boy was no pushover. He was innocent, yet incredibly strong, powerful, and even fierce. It was certain amazing to know that a human being could accomplish so much in so little time. This is just a sample of what Man was capable of. From what Malik has shown so far, he is definitely not to be underestimated. Decided to continue on with their battle, the marine ensign rush forward in a burst of speed. It would seem he wanted to return the favor for when the boy knocked him towards the ground. He wasn't one to hold grudges. He simply wants to see how powerful the boy really was. It was one of the reason to push this young martial artist to his limits.

The young fighter braced himself for any attacks this man had devised within his mind as he dashed towards the boy's form. The child readied himself as the ensign clenched both of his fists. It was appear that this soldier was going at him head-on. To this adolescent warrior trying to see the reasons behind this opponent's actions, he sees it as a predictable maneuver. Of course, it could be a ploy for something more. A diversion of some sort. Right now, all Malik could do was wait and see what the marine had planned now. As the soldier grew closer to the teenager, he reared his right fist back, prepared to initiate the first strike to his assault. When he was close enough to the young warrior, he jumped to the boy's right. When he landed, he thrusted his right arm forward. Seeing this maneuver, the teen was able to avoid the attack by leaning his back by a far amount of distance. This allowed the punch to miss the right side of his face. Now, it was his turn to inflict harm onto his opponent. He clenched his left hand into a fist and pulled it back. He then, launched it forth, ready to deliver significant pain towards his enemy. The blow managed to make contact with the marine's chest, causing the young man to grunt in discomfort. To follow up with his punch, Malik clenched his right hand into a fist as well. He reared it back and thrusted at the soldier in a similar fashion. It was able to hit him in his left jaw. The force of the blow affected him in a way that it caused him to stumble backwards. With the man in a daze, he was left vulnerable and wide-open for further punishment. The child decided to take this chance and deliver the finishing blows. However, it will not be from one of his techniques. He would rather save the much needed energy for the strongest of the group, the leader. It was best that he would exert his sheer strength to relieved the man of unconsciousness as he did with the lower-ranking soldier of his comrade. While temporarily unfocused and distracted from the pain he suffered, the opponent of Malik is in danger of enduring further damage. The aforementioned teenager dashed at a blinding speed, surprising the onlookers. All of which except their leader, who remained impressively reserved as he watched what unfolded before him.

Couple with the fact on how fast the young fighter was moving and the daze in the his eyes, the marine was completely powerless to stop the child on what he next move would be. All he could do now was brace himself for what was about to come. With a person such as the teen he was facing in battle, one may not know what he was thinking, what tactic he has planned, what strategy he had created. When the young warrior was close enough, he performed a strong kick with his right leg. The attack successfully landed in front of his face, pushing the young soldier back even further. Though, Malik was careful to keep his opponent away from the river. What could happen to a human in those waters when a Bananawani rose from it's depths was much worse than suffering defeat at the hands of a child. The distance at which the marine ensign was propelled across the ground was up to two feet. The formidable teen planted his right foot back onto the ground. To follow up with his powerful kick, the young teen performed a knee strike with his left leg. It was able to connect with the soldier's stomach. This cause him to bend over in discover and nausea. Sometimes, a hit to one's gut can cause the bile within one's intestines to act up. Thankfully, the marine ensign didn't felt like barf. It would prove to be a disgusting site. To finish up with this opponent of his, the boy raised his left arm up high into the air. He then, strongly brought his elbow down towards the marine. This type of attack was able to hit the man in the back of his neck. The shock from the blow caused the man to gasp in both surprise and pain. At this finishing blow, the man slowly fell towards the solid earth below him. In his mind, it was simply the thoughts of disbelief flowing about in the manner of raging tides; He couldn't believe he was defeat here and now. He could believe he was crushed y a child. He couldn't believe he had done it so soon. On one bright side, he certainly gave this boy much trouble. Within the raging tides of his current doubt was the respect he now has for this young warrior. While he was slightly hurt from his defeat, he was happy to have lost against such a worthy opponent. When his body hit the ground, the ensign closed his eyes, losing consciousness.

(Hey I'll be your npc)

One by one each of the Marine Lieutenant subordinates met an untimely defeat. Their unconscious or dead bodies scattered among the slightly grassy and earthy ground beneath them. With a man trying to defy the law for whatever the reasons might be. Davern had, had quite enough of the young pirate's shenanigans. The Marine Lieutenant stood there a strong solid six foot and strong, his ideals unwavering beneath his strong sense of justice, nothing could convince him to not take this pirate in and kill him if necessary. In Davern's mind the man had already quite capably shown he was capable of killing a man given the blows he dealt to the ensign who was most likely suffering the fate of a justice filled death. Davern had served in the marine's with that very ensign in the same group for over three years.

They shared various adventures with one another and his now limp and very possible dead body did not bring a pretty sight to the Marine Lieutenant Davern's eyes. However one could not be weak in the eyes of a pirate so slowly, Davern's emotions would begin to subside, for he had not made it to the rank he did without being strong enough physically as well as emotionally when he needed to  be. So being ten meters away from the lake which was on his left side and five meters away from the pirate in front of him that had been giving the Marines so much trouble as of late. A swift motion would be attempted by Davern, seconds after the body of the ensign fell limp on the floor, with his left hand which was at his side he would grab his gun which was in it's holster on the left side opposite to his sword which was on the right in it's sheath. The gun being removed from it's holster would be pointed at the pirate and shot a total of three times all in one fluent motion with just his left hand.

His marksmanship was impeccable, easily able to shoot a beli coin from a large distance away. So the three bullets each had a intended target area, the first two for the chest cavity as that was a location that would most likely hinder the man but not leave him instantly on the verge of death. Davern could easily transport the criminal and get him medical attention far before his death, so that wasn't an issue. Then the last bullet would be aimed for somewhere on his right leg hoping to slow down his movements upon the three shots the Marine Lieutenant Davern eyes would be fixated on the pirate before him however his other sense staying open and receptive to other stimuli.

He'd still keep the pistol partial extended should he need to either utilize the weapon once more or have to be ready for more of a fight. Regardless of weather or not the man was hit Davern would stay on standby until he had some sort of an indication on the Pirate's physical status or up until he dodged, if he would dodge the attacks in some way.

(Thank you, goo sir, I''l be sure to make the battle very realistic and show certain differences in both fighters' strengths as much as I can.)

The young pirate took in a deep breath and exhaled for a chance to gain some relaxation throughout his muscles, to make them less tense. The tenser a person's muscles was, the more difficult it would be for them to move the way they desired. It was be especially a problem, if they needed to dodge a form of offensive aimed their way. Malik was temporarily taking a moment to regain his stamina from the time he spent defeating his opponents. While he was in a hurry to acquire the Sand-Sand Fruit, he was not a killer. Though, he may face enemies that will push him to the point where he will brutalize them, beating them until they bled. It was rather unpleasant and very unfortunate for them. It was fortune enough that evil beings such as what was described in the boy's mind earlier have yet to meet him in battle. While he did not kill anyone in the group, it would seem that the leader of this troop he was in charge of had other views. As the boy was a pirate, it wouldn't surprise him at the assumption that he had killed someone. If he did took another life, he would be noticeable guilty to the point that he would be in shock. As a Christian, the adolescent fighter knew that taking life, whether good or evil, was wrong. However, he has also realized another reality. That there are those, who are so evil that they don't deserve to live as they continue to cause pain and suffering out of sheer enjoyment until they die. There are such people, but there are far more individuals, who are good at heart and hate evil. Malik has yet to meet such heinous individuals, most of which can probably be found out at see as part of infamous pirate crews. It was no wonder that marines strive to stop such a faction. However, this teenager was a true exception. While he was a pirate, he was a noble individual. He was building his own code of honor of sorts and choosing his own path towards righteousness, answering to now one, but his family and God as he felt he should. In the moment he was taking a breather from his most recent confrontation between him and a marine soldier, he heard a sudden click in the distance some where in his line of sight.

"I know that sound all too well." The young fighter stated within his mind, remembered what that same aforementioned sound was. It was the clicking sound of a gun barrel, which would mean a person has a gun pointed in his direction. To be more accurate, it was the the weapon's trigger. After all, there was no other type of object within this area on the island that would make such a sound. He immediately turned his gaze in the direction where such emanation came from. By the time he performed such action, a gunshot had burst out in an omnidirectional manner. This noise had resounded three times, meaning that the marine he now saw, who was holding the gun, had fired three shots at the teenage fighter. He can tell this was going to hurt and will no way to dodge a projectile moving at such speed with a distance of five meters, he was about to experience some of the most harshest feelings a human could endure in their life. He was thankful he was twice the estimated distance from the lake that was infested with deadly species of alligators. Unfortunately, it was much too close to dodge a speed bullet, let alone three at a time. He had little choice, but to endure it. While he didn't like how this turn of events have come up to, he couldn't compete with the speed of a bullet. He can only hope that they miss any vital points on his body. While the pain and amounts of damage may impede his agility while in combat at a temporary rate, he had much persistence. While this can come off as stubbornness, it was an acceptable trait in a warrior.  From the position the marine was in, Malik would said he was ready to confront the teen in battle right at this moment. It was appear that this must be the way he decides to start it. By launching a lethal barrage of bullets that could potentially be fatal to the young warrior, even at this distance. If the marine he was was a talented marksman, then, he would be in trouble, if one of those bullets hit him. At this moment, the lieutenant shot his gun three times, releasing the same number of bullet that now flew at him at a quick pace. It was a gun, so the speed at which a bullet was moving was rather difficult to dodge. With little time to think of a solution for a way out of this little problem of a situation all while in the range of fast-moving projectiles, Malik decided that it would be best to take the damage head-on. While not the best idea, the child knew he couldn't evade something that moved so fast at such a short distance. The lieutenant was fortunate to have a gun in his possession. The three bullets that flew towards him at such an alarming rate manage to pierce into his flesh. Two projectile hit him in his chest while the remaining third was able to hit him in his right leg. The staggering pain and the impact of such hits were so much that the boy grunted in pain in an audible fashion. He also growled in discomfort from the significant damage he had received from the projectile that managed to hit him. It was a sensation of agony he never thought would occur at such a time. Of course, many marines carry a multitude of weapons with them. It was to be expected from such an individual. He was actually hoping that the gun would be fired at a much safer distance. Sadly, that wasn't the case with Malik. He should pay more attention on his surroundings other than his opponents.

The sudden shock sustained from the three gunshot was enough to knocked the child off of his feet in a backwards motion. His body landed a thud, which traveled a short distance, kicking up dirt in the process. The small clouds of particulate soil quickly faded away and the teen lied on the ground. While he was down, he was not out. Despite that, with this immediate sensation, he hissed in discomfort. No matter how much it hurts, this was nothing compared to past wounds he has experienced such as broken bones. While incredible agonizing, he was very much thankful that the projectiles missed any vital organs. Still these new injuries he has sustain will make it much harder for him to do battle with the lieutenant standing before him. It was nothing that peroxide and gauze couldn't fix. The pain that was felt now will be, but a distant memory along with this battle when it so finishes. The problem still lies with one certain object. The lieutenant's gun, which was still held in his left hand. He was at a disadvantage due to the fact that his fighting style was only effective at close range. Any long range attack would pose a problem. This was especially the case with firearms, which can launch projectiles at alarming speeds. Slightly struggling to get to get to his feet due to the damage and pain he is suffering, the boy himself off of the soft earth below him. When he was on his feet, he placed his left hand over the two wounds he had suffered on his chest. One below his right pectoral and the other just above his heart. He thanked God for helping him make it this far in the battle he was in and allowing him to survive such an attack that would otherwise have been fatal for others. He coughed out a medium-sized portion of blood out of his mouth. It splattered onto the ground at his feet. It left one trickle of his body's liquid on each side of his mouth as he panted from the agony he could still feel. He then, shifted his stance to a more combative position. Despite the pain he was in, he could still fight. He was very glad those gunshots missed any vital wounds, but the damage was still deterring to his agility, making him an easier target to hit in close-combat. He will need to close the distance quickly with him and the lieutenant. When he was close enough to the man, he will knock the gun out of his hand. If he can managed additional action, he would also throw the weapon into the water where the Bananawani swelled in it's depths. Even a Marine Lieutenant would not dare to enter uncharted territory without reinforcements. It was a risking plan to go with. The closer he would grow to the enemy before, the more difficult it was to dodge the bullets he fired at him. As a a young aspiring hero of a fighter, who would dare to take multiple risks, he decided to try this tactic. If it were to fail, it would end up with another wound of similar shape as with his right thigh. He readied himself and concentrated on the the weapon held in the soldier's left hand. He had to time this maneuver just right. Otherwise, he will simply by shot in one of his vital organs. If he was a fortunately fellow, the projectile would miss those important areas on his body and he would end up with only moderate injuries. They would hurt, but at least they wouldn't be life threatening. If he could brush off the pain induced from the grazing of a bullet to his thigh, then, surely he could survive a few gunshots. He just has to steer clear of them and hope they do not hit anything vital afterwards. He took a deep breath, then, exhaled to relax himself.

"Alright then, here I go." The teenage fighter stated within his own mind as he prepared to rush the man head-on. However, he wasn't suicidal, he had various tactics behind his own actions, which involve much use of his mind. He just has to keep the man guessing and keep up his unpredictability. He hopes to The Lord that he can become close enough without suffering major damage,if not fatal, while he steadily closes the distance between him and his enemy at the moment. While the stinging pain in his right thigh was evident, Malik could care less about that. After this battle of his, he will immediately apply first-aid to the wound. While it wasn't fatal, it still gave a sensation as if part of his leg was set aflame, burning within a relentless inferno of heat and suffering. Unlike all the other marines the Malik had previously fought, this one seemed firm in his beliefs, unwavering. Even if he showed that he was a good person, it still wouldn't change the fact that he was a pirate, like many others this lieutenant had encounter for many years. What he thinks about the boy remains a mystery to Malik and shouldn't be important as he has to get by him to continue on his quest. He burst forth with an amazing amount of speed. He swerved from left to right in zigzag patterns. He changed direction at such a quick pace, that it was difficult for one to pinpoint his exact location. The teen possesses enhance agility that surpasses the ordinary limits of a human beings. He was quick on his feet and proved to be very difficult to catch, let alone land a single blow on his body. If the lieutenant could tell where he was going next, he would fire a bullet that would hit him in his left arm somewhere near his shoulder. If the boy was able to successfully dodge the ammo the man had fired against him or endure it, then, he would be close enough to knock his gun away from him with a kick using his left leg, ricocheting it into the waters of the Bananawani-infested lake.  Without his gun, the man will simply have to rely on close-combat, the boy's own forte. He would then, clench his right hand into a fist and rear back his arm to thrust an attack towards the lieutenants face. However, any further damage that boy may have sustain will slightly throw off his focus for a short amount of time until he can learn to adapt to it.

Calling hits

Malik wrote:
It was the clicking sound of a gun barrel, which would mean a person has a gun pointed in his direction. After all, there was no other type of object within this area on the island that would make such a sound besides a gun. He immediate turned his gaze in the direction where the emanation of such clanking came from. In his sights was the marine lieutenant holding his projectile weapon in front of the child

This implies you had pretty much looked up after I shot the gun, the only clicking sound that would be occurring would either be the clicking of the trigger If you could hear that over the gunshot i suppose or the sounds of the rounds leaving the chamber perhaps. And if you turned your gaze as you heard this noise, by the time you heard the noise the bullets would have been to you in less than a second or at least the first one had you decided to manipulate the time between each shot.

So calling hits two in chest one in leg, your welcome to get another staff members opinion or go with the ruling I'll allow you to edit your post accepting hits.

Tee wrote:Calling hits

Malik wrote:
It was the clicking sound of a gun barrel, which would mean a person has a gun pointed in his direction. After all, there was no other type of object within this area on the island that would make such a sound besides a gun. He immediate turned his gaze in the direction where the emanation of such clanking came from. In his sights was the marine lieutenant holding his projectile weapon in front of the child

This implies you had pretty much looked up after I shot the gun, the only clicking sound that would be occurring would either be the clicking of the trigger If you could hear that over the gunshot i suppose or the sounds of the rounds leaving the chamber perhaps. And if you turned your gaze as you heard this noise, by the time you heard the noise the bullets would have been to you in less than a second or at least the first one had you decided to manipulate the time between each shot.

So calling hits two in chest one in leg, your welcome to get another staff members opinion or go with the ruling I'll allow you to edit your post accepting hits.

I've made any possible edits that I could accomplish. I hope this is acceptable by the terms of the staff and to you.

(They are fine)

Marine Lieutenant Davern's bullets from the pistol he had produced connected with the Pirate whom had been giving him such a hard time and defying the law for quite a while now. Davern had decided it was his duty as a marine to take him in. The three bullets that would have came in contact with the pirate would propel the man backward a meter or two leaving him six meters from Davern who still had his gun partially extended. The pirate had shown a proficiency at fighting at a close range, Davern had no problem fighting at a close range but knew it'd be far easier taking this man in from a distance. As the man struggled to get up off the ground Davern would say

"If you know what's good for you you'll turn yourself in before more harm becomes of you"

The pirate would clutch his chest wounds and would begin to cough out blood, while the blood was being coughed two more rounds would be fired in quick succession at the pirate from the pistol that Davern had never stopped pointing at the pirate with his left hand. The sound of the shots almost deafening, as they echoed throughout the lake. A shifting of water would be heard towards the middle of the lake shortly after the gunshots, but knowing the area Davern was quite aware of what resided in the waters, and knew to stay away from the lake if he valued his life. The pirate coughing blood would probably distract him from the fact that Davern had fired off another two more rounds until it was two late, these two would be aimed for each of the respective pirate's kneecaps the first for the left, and the second for the right. There should have been nothing stopping the two shots from connecting with their target, and should they have connected as the Marine Lieutenant Davern had anticipated he would quickly say,

"I have but one bullet left, if you resist any further and refuse to turn yourself in, it will be the last bullet you ever see."

His eyes would be glaring at the pirate who would have gotten hit in the kneecaps respectively most likely hindering his ability to walk completely. If the bullets had made contact with his knees most likely he would never walk the same again unless he had some sort of enhancement. Marine Lieutenant Davern would never had put his arm with the gun down still holding it toward the pirate now fully extended upon firing the two previous rounds, should any further sign of resistance be shown the Marine Lieutenant would have to show the pirate that he was not in the business of making empty threats. Davern had a duty to the marines and to the people of the town and allowing a pirate to obtain a devil fruit especially one with such powerful capabilities would not be something the marines could allow.

If the second wave of bullets penetrated the pirate even if he decided to continue to fight it would be useless. Most likely his death would be imminent, at least this way Davern was giving the man a chance to stay alive although it would be in a jail cell where all pirate belonged. He had two gun shot wounds to the chest which were not helping his blood supply in the slightest, one in the right leg and a potential two in the kneecaps, if he could still fight after that Marine Lieutenant Davern, would respect the pirate but only so much, you could only respect a lawbreaker but so much.

(I do not know, if my character's enhanced agility due to his skill set would help, but at least I can allow him to dodge the bullet just enough so he could have grazed wounds and still be able to fight to his fullest.)

As the boy coughed out a small portion of his blood from the gunshots he had suffered earlier into this battle with such an unexpected start. The wounds he had sustained earlier could still be felt deep within his flesh as the sensation was reminiscent of fire scorching the very insides of where he had been struck. It was undoubtedly agonizing, but he was able to fair through with it. Despite how vulnerable his body was as a human being, his strength and agility made he a formidable person. He could move faster and was stronger than ordinary people much older than he was. It was quite shocking to see such a boy with such power. The advantage to this passive enhancement from his many years of training in martial arts was that he could dodge attacks more efficiently whether at long or short ranges. He was thankful to have such a capable body that was suited well for battle. He may suffer from further injuries, but on the bright side they were not fatal. A wound that was fatal posed a threat to one's own life. An injury that could kill someone slowly, painfully or not. It was most unfortunate to be dealt with such a tragic fate above anything else. It would be even more tragic, if the person who died had also failed a friend he wanted to risked his life for to help ease their suffering. Malik was that person, who floated at the line of danger, the point within a situation between the boundaries of life and death. He could feel it from the way the marine pointed his loaded gun at the child. He may be a teen, but that didn't stop this man from shooting him. It was obvious that he was the type of man that followed a strong sense of justice and will take down any pirate, who would defy the law and pose a threat tot the World Government. He was the kind of man one wouldn't be able to convince so easily. He was left with little choice then to beat the man into unconsciousness or crush him to the point where he was too injured to move. The odds were against him in this favor as it would seem from the teenager's point of view. Three moderate to major injuries that made it difficult for him to move enough as it is and it didn't see m that the lieutenant would stop as the boy grew closer. However, for this boy, he had a strong will and would not stop even, if he was close to death. As he was momentarily trying to clear his lungs of any blood from his previous wounds, he immediately heard two more resounding gunshots. There was no doubt in his own mind that their were two more projectiles heading for him and that he would suffer additional injuries in the process.

"Oh no, I have to dodge quick, or at least divert myself enough, so that the bullets miss what the marine was aiming for." The young warrior thought as he quickly moved himself by rolled his entire body to his right side. When it came to dodging bullets, one didn't have time to look up to what was coming at them in the first place, less they get shot as a result. While he was a risk-taker, he didn't want to risk worrying his friend, Zatania for she may have a fit from the various wounds he has sustained from this current battle he was in. He was thankful for the enhanced agility that allowed himself to move so quickly. From a distance such as this, he was certain he could evade projectiles moving as fast as bullets in the first place. The boy heard the bullets hit something other than his flesh. He was certain that he wasn't injured. If he did, he would've felt a searing sensation of pain deep within his body. It would have been difficult to handle, if those last two attacks had hit him where the marine desired as such. He was fortunate to have high amounts of agility, which surpassed the standards of an ordinary human being. It makes one wonder what man is truly capable of, if a person of his age can be this formidable and earn a bounty of over more than one million in terms of beli. As he had though before, the level of a pirates power is sometimes measured by the number of their bounty. Of course, when it came to one that was frozen from unknown circumstances, it was rather difficult to determine those with such wanted posters on how strong they were. It was best to keep cautious and evaluate their strength in battle. Of course, most pirates seen so far have power that can be measure by the number of their bounty. It was obvious that Malik himself was a pirate of gifted power from God. Though, it was okay to say that he had moments of vulnerability when the he lets his guard down, giving an enemy an opportunity to strike. This situation was obvious where Malik was caught off-guard by the marine lieutenant. The faction that was associated with the Government wasted no time in attack when it came to pirates, good or evil. It didn't mattered to marines of this man's type, they considered them a danger to society as well as to the rest of the world. The young fighter struggled to stand on his own two feet due to the pain he was feeling from his previously inflicted three other injuries. He grunted as he was able to plant both of his feet onto the ground. When he was able to place both his legs on the solid earth, he stood up straight, do his best to ignore the pain inflicted on him.

"I'm not backing down, marine. No matter how many times you shoot me, I will not fall and I will not die. Telling me to stop is pretty much useless at this point after I come all this way, so bring it." The teenage martial artist said, true conviction in his gaze as he refuses to accept defeat here and now. He took a deep breath as he bend both of his legs, preparing to rush forward towards the marine. When he exhaled the air he took in and ran straight towards the soldier. Bullet wounds would not be the end of his life here. If he was going to die, he would be much older and it would be how a warrior died, honorably and well-respected. With the number of shots left unknown, Malik had to keep up his own defenses until he rank out of ammo. Despite how things seemed to be turning around for him, Malik decides to play it safer. It wasn't because he was feeling very cautious, it was so he could come back alive to one of the few people he has meet, who care about him. He does wonder how Zatania may react to his current condition. She would most likely have a fit, considering her personality into the fold of her very being. He wonders, if it will be a violent reaction. Well, he would find out when this battle was over and done with. Unfortunately, it has only begun and Malik had yet to land a hit on his opponent from a distance such as this, but if he can deplete the ammo within the marine's gun, then, he can grow close enough to begin the fight that he had long waited for, instead of dodging projectile, like it was some kind of fatal game. He made a promise and he was going to keep it. He always keeps his promises. To break an oath made to a person you care, in his opinion, feels as if you were lying to them the whole time. He didn't want too lie to his friends and he especially would even dare to think or let one thought of betrayal enter his consciousness. He was going to come back to her and he was going to eat that Devil Fruit. At least he didn't have to worry about suffering any further injuries since he would be able to allow such physical attacks to pass through him. He clenched both of his hands into fists, ready to deliver to damage when it was his turn to inflict harm upon this man. No matter how many bullets were left, he wasn't worry one bit. He was going to try his hardest to dodge every one this far, despite his current amount of injuries. No matter how many times he was shot, he wouldn't die. If he did, his mother would have a newfound hatred for the Government. She could be pretty intimidating when pushed too far, let alone his own father. Malik himself may have unknowingly inherited that certain trait from his parent. Of course, he has to be pushed to a certain extent for his intimidating gaze to show forth.

"I have to be careful. I cannot allow to be hit any more times while running in blindly. If I can dodge last bit of shots he has left, I can quickly close the distance with my currently damaged body and truly deliver punishment of my own. I understand this guy's reasons for hating pirates, that there were many that aren't to be trusted. Good or not, I'm a pirate and he is a marine. We were consider mortal enemies." The young warrior thought to him as he moved his legs slightly, preparing to move in order to set off the final shot that will completely deplete his weapon of any ammo for the time being. He then, quickly jolted sideways. He was trying to distract the marine lieutenant to catch hi off guard. If he were to shoot now, the boy would be able to dodge it easily due to his enhanced agility. Though, it would probably take more effort to do so when comparing the current estimated distance between him and his enemy. He swerved in jagged to zigzag patterns to keep the young man he was battling off track for a while. Malik had already suffered three shots to his body, he couldn't afford to endure any further damage. Despite having surpassing strength and speed, he still had a vulnerable body and like most human bodies, they had to endure physical pain. So, gunshots were near-fatal to the boy. Fortunately, he was a good dodger. If he were to claim and eat the Sand-Sand, he wouldn't need to worry about getting hit most of the time. When one was made of sand, they can simply allow attacks to pass through them. Only a Logia's natural elemental weakness could bypass this defense to their powers, but they were mostly out of reach for their opponents, giving the said wielder of these elemental powers a great advantage. For now, he cannot afford the luxury of his mind wandering off to different thoughts such as the possibilities of a power's capabilities. The prospect of claiming a fruits told in legends was very exciting, but he had more pressing matters to worry about. When he felt like his movements had distracted the man enough, he simply rushed towards the marine. If he would tried to shoot the boy again, he would easily dodge due to his agility. When he would close the distance, he would focus towards the gun in his hand and would perform a kick that would knock the long-ranged weapon out of his hand in case he would replace the ammo lost. That is, if it was able to connect with the man's left hand. Afterwards, when the kick would proved successfully, Malik would place his foot back onto the ground and deliver a powerful punch with his right hand. If it connected, it would inflict significant damage onto his body as it would hit his chest, temporarily knocking the wind out of him.

"This man is serious in wanting to bring me down.