MARINES - A ONE PIECE story (ENGLISH) - Part I

CHAPTER CLVIII - The sleepers

Calm Valley was in sight. Already, the sharp and green peaks seemed to pierce through the morning mists. In the heart of the island, the rocky valley was opening like the mouth of a stone titan. Each return to this place was a relief for the members of Justice : they knew they were safe, among allies, friends, family. The cave where they had first settled had become headquarters where they could find some comfort. The enemy had never set foot there.

- I thought we'd never get home, Jun yawned, leaning against the rail. How long has it been this time ? Three weeks ?

- Four, isn't it ? Jorge breathed, letting go of the helm and stretching loudly. I've never been in such a hurry to change my clothes. I'm stinky, it's awful.

- How surprising... the young woman grumbled. You could make an effort, though. There is all you need to have a wash on the ship...

And as they were starting to bicker again, Haru left her spyglass to admire the landscape. At her side, Arthur seemed ready to fall asleep.

- It is clear that our informant had not been mistaken, once again. It is the sixth operation that we make successful thanks to him. Who can it be ?

- No idea, replied his captain, shrugging his shoulders. His information is precise and concerns confidential files, so we can conclude that he, or she, is highly placed in the Marine ranks.

Haru nodded. her smile was radiant.

- In any case, it is comforting to know we have support, even within the enemy ranks. After what happened the other day, our bounties might rise again, but it will not be the first time. And... Arthur, are you alright ?!

The young man kept compressing his forearm and started to stagger. His forehead was dripping with sweat. As Haru was insistent, he pulled up his sleeve and she discovered with horror that two large holes were dug in it, purulent and bloody.

- Arthur ?! What the hell is this ? Why did you not say so before ?

- Fiore's snake bit me, just before we fled. I think its venom is... quite strong...

Just as he was about to collapse, Haru caught him and took him to the dormitory, in the hold, where she laid him down in his hammock. She then took a moment to think, worried : since Lola's death, they no longer had a doctor on board, a position that was essential to the safety of a crew. As Arthur was becoming hot with fever, she climbed the stairs four by four to get Kegaro. The Red Lion was watching the horizon with his son, and as soon as he saw the young Kuja running toward him, he knew something was wrong. She explained the situation and, as Hataro was showing signs of concern, the father nodded.

- I think I know what he needs.

He hurried down to the hold, rummaged through his belongings and pulled out of his personal trunk a clay jar full of dried leaves. He selected a handful, moistened them in cool water and scattered them over the young man's wounds.

- These leaves should ease his pain and bring his fever down for a while, but they will not drive out the reptile's venom out of his body. If his injury does not heal in the next few days, then...

He turned to Haru and Hataro, looking serious. They already knew what he was going to say.

- ... we will have to find him a doctor.

As Zell and Jane arrived, alerted by the restlessness of the little group, Haru huffed and dropped into a hammock.

- Thank you, Kegaro. It is not the first time your first aid has saved our lives, I do not know what we could do without you.

The Red Lion smiled at her, as did his son. Pride was shining in Hataro's eyes as their friends complimented his father.

- Knowledge of plants and herbs is essential among the Powath tribe. My beloved was a great healer in her days. She passed on her basic knowledge to me, which I then passed on to our son. I am not a doctor, but it can delay the onset of more serious illnesses.