Confrontation

Suddenly Jack's brows furrowed, sensing the distinct presence of an overwhelming force drawing closer. "You continue searching," he instructed Lysa, removing the stolen attire and summoning Shakky from the Bead's Space. Shakky materialized, her regal presence evident even in the sterile environment of the island.

"Assist Lysa," Jack whispered softly, handing her the uniform. She nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation, and swiftly donned the clothes.

Lysa hesitated, biting her lip, "Jack..."

Shakky, however, grabbed Lysa's arm gently, her voice unwavering. "Jack is strong, don't worry." Lysa, sensing the genuine conviction in Shakky's tone, nodded. Together, the two women continued their covert mission, leaving Jack behind.

Jack turned to face the looming darkness of the corridor, an uneasy sensation prickling the back of his neck. At first, all was still, the silence almost suffocating. But that tranquillity was short-lived, soon shattered by the rhythmic pounding of approaching footsteps.

Out of the shadows emerged a figure, standing at an imposing 6'7". The man's build spoke of rigorous training and discipline — every muscle defined, every movement calculated. His silver hair, slicked back and glinting like moonlight, was accentuated by a single, distinguished braid hanging down the left side. But it was the deep blue eyes that captured Jack's attention. They weren't just eyes; they were the windows to a mind that was always strategizing, always calculating.

The man's right arm was a canvas of tales, inked with celestial tattoos of stars, moons, and comets, interspersed with cryptic scripts that hinted at an ancient lineage or a grand adventure. His attire was both commanding and regal — a custom-tailored marine coat, adorned with a golden-embroidered insignia, draped over his broad shoulders. Beneath that, a sleeveless navy-blue tunic displayed his storied tattoos in their full glory. Each step he took in his combat boots resonated with purpose.

Jack's eyes narrowed, gauging the imposing Marine before him. The man's very presence seemed to exude authority and confidence. Jack had encountered countless Marines before, but this one had an aura of command that few could match.

"A Marine?" Jack pondered internally. The presence of the Marine was a surprise, considering the shadowy undertakings of the island. The moral compass of the World Government's military arm wasn't renowned for its steadfastness, but the vile experiments and kidnappings on the island seemed too heinous, even for them.

The Marine's gaze didn't waver, his scrutiny of Jack unrelenting. "I felt a formidable presence a few hours back but dismissed it," he began, a hint of irritation in his tone. "Then the alarms blared, and a dragon managed to escape from our labs. I then surmised that the potent presence I'd sensed was no ally but a potential adversary."

He paused, taking a step closer, his height more pronounced. "So, what brings you to our shores? This island isn't known to welcome visitors."

There was a brief silence, tension thick in the air. Jack weighed his options. Was this Marine involved in the island's darker affairs? Or was he an uninformed, possibly even sympathetic party? Being direct might be the quickest way to find out.

"I am Jack, the Pirate Hunter," he finally responded, meeting the Marine's intense gaze head-on.

Recognition flashed in the Marine's eyes, but it was quickly replaced by suspicion. "I've heard of you," he mused, raising an eyebrow. "So, Jack the Pirate Hunter, what business do you have on this forbidden land?"

Jack inhaled deeply, the chilling environment of the island weighing on him. "I'm here on a personal mission," he said, deciding that honesty, even if partial, was the best course of action.

The Marine's eyes didn't leave Jack's face, trying to decipher any hint of deception. "This island houses vital projects, and we can't have external forces interfering," he stated sternly. "Your reputation precedes you, Jack. I suggest you tread carefully."

Jack kept his face impassive, though internally, he was piecing things together. If this Marine was genuinely in the dark about the island's darker secrets, then exposing them might tip the scales in his favor. But for now, he had to play his cards close to his chest.

"I intend no harm," Jack responded, every word measured. "But there are things happening on this island that even you might not be aware of. Things that are morally reprehensible."

The Marine's expression hardened. "And what might that be?"

Jack locked eyes with the Marine, his gaze unwavering. "Half a day ago, assailants from this island attacked a neighboring island, exterminating the native inhabitants, setting homes ablaze, and kidnapping their children. Before your arrival, it would never have occurred to me that this place had any affiliation with the Marines," Jack declared, each word sharp and deliberate.

The Marine's brow furrowed, his stance rigid. "That's impossible. I've overseen this place for months, and nothing of that sort has transpired. I've scrutinized every inch of this island. What you describe couldn't possibly have happened."

A defensive edge tinged the Marine's voice. The idea that a calamity of that magnitude had occurred right under his nose was clearly unsettling. It appeared that Jack had struck a nerve.

Jack shook his head, the calm blue of his eyes darkening slightly with determination. "Regardless of what you've seen or believe, the Vivre Card brought me here. And I won't rest until those children are found and returned safely."

The standoff between them was palpable, each sizing up the other, calculating their next move. The silent corridor amplified the tension, and every subtle shift, every minute flex of muscle, was pronounced.

The Marine's expression became contemplative, even if just for a fleeting moment. "You seem confident in your claims," he finally replied, his voice filled with skepticism. "But know this – I'm bound by duty and orders. However, if what you say holds any truth, then we'll have to see how those align with my own principles."

Jack's demeanor remained resolute, but he noticed the hint of morality in the Marine's tone. "Then let me put it this way: either you uphold your oath to protect the innocent, or you adhere blindly to your orders, defending an island steeped in darkness and secrets. The choice is yours."

A heavy silence descended upon them, punctuated only by the faint hum of the facility's machines. The weight of Jack's words hung in the air, challenging the very essence of the Marine's duty.

The Marine's eyes, previously guarded, now bore a more introspective expression. "It's not that simple," he murmured, almost to himself.

Jack, sensing a potential ally, leaned in. "Sometimes, it is. And if children are indeed in peril on this island, then I expect you, as a Marine and as a man of honor, to do what's right."

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