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The fierce father-daughter battle on Onigashima was unknown to the crew of the Endless Dream sailing at ten thousand meters altitude.
The setting sun's glow scattered through the White Sea, painting the entire sky in warm hues of orange.
If pirates sailing in the Blue Sea looked up, they would see a horizon filled with fiery clouds, blending seamlessly with the sea and sky.
The Endless Dream seemed to merge into this surreal landscape, becoming part of the beautiful scenery.
In his usual spot in the first-floor restaurant, Zyhark, having recovered some strength, leaned back in his chair, eyes closed, reminiscing about his fight with Kaido.
The Yonko's overwhelming strength left an indelible mark. Despite his myriad abilities, Zyhark had found himself on the defensive, struggling to even break through Kaido's formidable defenses without advanced Haki or powerful attacks.
His speed, granted by the Rumble-Rumble Fruit, had been his only advantage, but even that wasn't enough against Kaido's swift, devastating strikes.
Reflecting on his inadequacies, Zyhark clenched his right fist, coating it with Armament Haki, turning his entire arm black. No matter how hard he tried, he couldn't get the Haki to flow and release from his body.
The advanced technique of Haki, known as Ryou in Wano, was something he had heard about from Shanks and Garp.
If he couldn't utilize it now, it meant his Haki wasn't yet at the required level. Despite enduring two Haki-infused attacks from Kaido, his own Haki hadn't made significant progress. It seemed the so-called "teacher" Kaido wasn't quite as effective as the rumors suggested.
Zyhark's musings led him to the conclusion that his Armament Haki had improved, though not as significantly as his Observation Haki after gaining the Rumble-Rumble Fruit.
He estimated his Observation Haki was at a vice-admiral level, while his Armament Haki lagged behind at a rear admiral level.
Combined with his devil fruit abilities and physical prowess, he felt capable of contending with most opponents in the sea, barring the Yonko and admirals.
Thinking of Kaido's oppressive presence, Zyhark knew he had to strive for the next level. Advanced Conqueror's Haki was a realm he needed to explore if he ever hoped to stand atop the world. He wasn't sure if he possessed the qualifications of a king, but it was something he had to find out.
Putting aside these thoughts, he took a sip from the cup in front of him, only to realize it was plain water. "Aqua, did you purify my tea again?"
Aqua, lounging on a sofa and munching on chips, replied, "You asked me to make tea, didn't you? Sorry, but this is how a goddess makes tea!"
Ignoring Aqua's antics, Zyhark turned to Meowth, who was busy scribbling on a sheet of paper. "What are you drawing?"
"Modifications for the prototype. The battle with Kaido showed me its weaknesses. It needs to be more robust," Meowth replied, eyes filled with determination.
"The prototype was already impressive. Kaido is a monster; his strength isn't a fair benchmark," Zyhark said seriously.
Meowth's gaze remained resolute. "It's not just about the prototype. I want to contribute more, not just watch. Next time, I want to help you face such a strong opponent."
King, training intensely in the second-floor cabin, shared Meowth's resolve. Despite his limitations, the desire to become stronger like Saitama burned within him.
Even Aqua, usually carefree, felt a shift, a deeper connection with her crewmates.
This unexpected attack by Kaido had strengthened the bond between the crew and their captain, making their resolve to support Zyhark even firmer.
This might be the most valuable outcome of their encounter with the Yonko.
Time passed as each member focused on their path to becoming stronger.
Two days later, the Endless Dream reached the "White Currents" as Gros described—a treacherous region with numerous hidden whirlpools.
Navigating these treacherous waters, Zyhark decided to forge a path through the currents using his lightning abilities.
Aqua controlled the water, guiding the ship safely across. Despite a brief encounter with a giant octopus, the plan went smoothly.
Within an hour, they crossed the dangerous waters and continued their journey through the calm White Sea.
Following the sea map, they arrived at the Angels' Island two hours later. As they approached, a beautiful woman with golden hair and small white wings greeted them at the entrance.
"Visitors from the Blue Sea, it's best not to enter Angel Island right now. It's not safe," she advised with a smile.
"Why? We can pay the entrance fee," Aqua boasted, holding up a stack of island currency.
The woman, resembling Conis from the original story, sighed. "It's not about the money. There's a war between the Shandians and God Gan Fall's forces. Even the Angel Island is affected. We can't guarantee your safety."
Zyhark, standing at the ship's bow, replied, "Thank you for the warning, but we are strong enough to handle it."
"But you're running a sea restaurant, right?" the woman questioned. Her gaze landed on King, whose intimidating presence made her reach for her sword.
To avoid a prolonged explanation, Zyhark decided to reveal their true identity. "This girl here is the new god of Birka. She can mediate the conflict."
The woman's eyes widened in shock. "The new god of Birka?"
Recognizing Aqua's description, the woman, introduced as Kobes, knelt respectfully. "I apologize for my rudeness, Goddess of Birka. I am Kobes, a member of the Guardian Forces of the God's Country. Please forgive my earlier behavior."
The respect shown was necessary to avoid conflict between the islands, and Kobes' reaction confirmed their identity, allowing the crew to proceed without further hindrance.
(End of Chapter)