Kai's Cottage – Dawn
The sun had barely risen, casting long shadows across the small cottage. Inside, Ren grunted as he pushed himself through another set of push-ups, sweat dripping from his brow. Despite his frustration with Haki training, he was determined to push his body to its limits. Nearby, Ryu sat cross-legged, eyes closed as he tried to extend his senses, focusing on the subtle shifts in the air around him.
Kai observed them both, arms crossed. "Remember, strength alone won't manifest Armament Haki," he said, eyes on Ren. "You need to channel your willpower into your fists. Imagine striking through, not at."
Ren nodded, breathing heavily. He clenched his fists, but no surge of power came. Frustration bubbled beneath the surface, but he swallowed it down. Meanwhile, Ryu continued to practice Observation Haki, struggling to sense beyond a few feet.
---
Inside Kai's Cottage – Later
Nadia sat on her bed, a small bag of belongings at her feet. Her gaze lingered on the open window, the salty sea breeze brushing against her face. Behind her, Kai stood silently, a rolled-up map in his hand.
"You're really leaving, huh?" Kai said, his voice gruff but soft.
Nadia nodded, not turning around. "You always knew I would."
Kai stepped forward, placing the map in her hand. "This was mine back in the day. Marked spots of interest along the Grand Line. Some dangerous, some... useful. Keep it close."
Nadia swallowed, her fingers tightening around the map. "Thanks, Grandpa."
Before she could say more, Kai pulled her into a rough, brief hug. "Stay safe. And keep those two idiots in line."
Nadia chuckled, her eyes glistening. "I will."
---
Foosha Village – Docks
Ren and Ryu stood by the dock, eyes wide as they took in the sight of the Wave Strider. The ship was a sleek, sturdy vessel with reinforced wood and a streamlined design, perfect for the unpredictable currents of the Grand Line. The figurehead was a striking depiction of a wave cresting forward, as though the ship itself was charging into the sea.
Kai crossed his arms, a smirk playing on his lips. "She's yours, Ren."
Ren's jaw dropped. "Wait, what?"
"Consider it a parting gift," Kai said. "She's tough, but you'll need a good navigator to handle her."
Nadia stepped forward, her bag slung over her shoulder. "Good thing you have one."
Ren grinned, his chest swelling with newfound excitement. "Then let's set sail!"
---
Onboard the Wave Strider – Afternoon
The trio adjusted to their new roles quickly. Nadia stood at the helm, her eyes sharp as she steered the ship through gentle waves. Ryu kept watch from the crow's nest, while Ren inspected the ship's supplies.
"We're heading to Azure Isle first," Nadia announced, unrolling Kai's map. "It's a small island, but we can gather supplies and maybe find some crew members."
"Crew members?" Ryu asked, leaning over the railing.
"We'll need more than just us three if we're going to survive the Grand Line," Nadia said, her gaze fixed ahead. "And I know just the person to start with."
Ren raised an eyebrow. "Who?"
Nadia's lips quirked into a grin. "A cook. And from what I hear, she's the best in West Blue."
---
Azure Isle – Afternoon
After five long days of sailing through calm seas and occasional squalls, the Wave Strider finally neared land. The island emerged gradually, its towering cliffs and lush greenery promising a safe harbor. "Land ho!" Nadia called out, eyes gleaming as she pointed to the distant shoreline. "That's Azure Isle!"
Ren shaded his eyes with one hand, a grin spreading across his face. "About time. I was starting to think we were going in circles."
Ryu smirked, leaning against the mast. "Or maybe Nadia just enjoys torturing us."
"Keep talking and you'll be on fish-catching duty tonight," Nadia shot back.
As they drew closer, the island's vibrant port came into view — a bustling marketplace filled with traders, fishermen, and travelers from all over the sea. The crew felt a surge of relief as they prepared to dock, ready to stretch their legs and restock their supplies. As they secured the ship, Ren and Ryu began taking inventory of their supplies — food, water, and basic tools. "We need to restock before heading out again," Nadia said, eyeing the bustling marketplace. "This island should have everything we need." The scent of freshly cooked seafood filled the air as the trio stepped onto the bustling streets. Colorful stalls lined the roads, and the chatter of villagers created a lively atmosphere.
Nadia led them through the marketplace, her eyes scanning each stall carefully. "Her name's Seraphina. And trust me — once you see her, you won't forget her."
"What do you mean by that?" Ren asked, curious.
Before Nadia could answer, a commotion erupted ahead. A group of rough-looking men staggered out of a tavern, bickering loudly. At their center stood a strikingly beautiful woman with long, wavy silver hair cascading down her back, deep blue eyes that sparkled like the sea, and a confident smirk that suggested she was far more dangerous than her looks implied.
She held a frying pan in one hand, casually twirling it as though it were a weapon. "I told you idiots, I'm not cooking for pirates."
"Come on, babe," one of the men sneered, reaching for her. "Don't be like that."
Seraphina's smirk widened. "Oh, I'm being nice. But if you touch me, you'll see what I'm really like."
Ren's eyes narrowed, a grin forming. "Looks like we found our cook."