[The room is dark and the surrounding is that of Avari's old shop. The fires have long since been extinguished and the dark creeps up in the corners. The only things lighting the feed are the lantern hanging to stage right and the smoldering cigar clamped between gently smiling jaws.]

Seems many have left since I had my temporary leave. [Sand ( Read more... )

[It's dark and the feed catches some movement. There's shuffling here and there, then a thick sort of sound filters through. It sounds like something blunt being shoved into a thick slab of meat.]

I don't think so.

[A body falls near the camera; it looks to be another zombie, but it has a large wound through the chest. It goes to stand, but sand ( Read more... )

[There's an ignition, like a lighter being flicked to life, then a deep drawn out inhale.] It seems Miss Gabriel has left us. A shame, really. We had much to discuss. To those that were her companions and her family, I give my highest regards. She was a good woman, even if she was not always willing to listen to reason. I hope for her well being.

( Read more... )

[There's a soft hum over the line.] Well, this is a bit different. I believe I'll blame the Marine for this one. Love, really. You have to remember that this home is our home, you see.

You're such a troublesome man; why do I stay with you? [Crocodile's voice sounds calm and very happy.] Marines are such an unrefined bunch. Must I show you how to ( Read more... )

[The feed starts with Crocodile's usual dry laughter.] Ah, these things again. [It sounds like there's something whirling over the feed; it grows louder and louder for a few seconds. For anyone that has spent time in the desert, the sound will be familiar - it sounds like the start of a sandstorm.]

I do not have time this second. Sables-! [Again, ( Read more... )

[The line cracks and pops, but a distinct sound rolls in. It's a haunting laugh, dark and low, barely pulling a note above a whisper. A rattling of chains can be heard before a voice comes through.]

This place again.

[It's Crocodile's voice, but it sounds very monotonous and he's hissing out his words.] It has not changed.

[He just sounds annoyed when he speaks.] It seems the recent quake has taken my shack on the beach front. How fortunate that I managed to save my work, however I am now what you would call "homeless."

[There's a sigh.] How very annoying.

Really, the politics keep getting more mundane by the second. It does not matter what you are, it matters who you are, and if that who is a bumbling idiot who wants to play war games with Demons, then that is who you are. And to be called a fool is giving you a credit you do not deserve. But I suppose watching on the side lines proves to pass the ( Read more... )

[The laughter is soft at first, but it grows and grows until it's almost deafening.] This place does have a way with fate; it's brought the Marines of all people. The corrupt spoils of the World Government and wouldn't you know it, it is the very Captain himself that shows ( Read more... )

( ... )