Kai awoke from his brief nap, his mind occupied with a singular thought: finding a weapon that could be the key to his survival in this harsh world. This idea had been festering in his mind for a long time, but now, with the increasing threats from the Marines and bounty hunters, it had become a necessity he could no longer ignore.
Kai had always been fascinated by sword fighting, not only through "One Piece" and the characters who amazed the world with their sword skills, like Zoro and Mihawk, but also through watching other anime and manga where the sword is depicted as a symbol of power and honor. Sword fighting had always captivated him, not just because of the power these weapons provided but also due to the agility and discipline required to wield them. To Kai, the sword was a symbol of honor, a tool for noble combat where both skill and spirit were tested. The idea of being able to protect oneself and defeat enemies with a single sword filled his mind with excitement and challenge. He was enthralled by the strength that came from combining physical prowess with spiritual discipline.
With this central idea, Kai began to think about where he might find a sword that suited him and perhaps carried the strength he needed. He remembered Shimotsuki Village, the place where Roronoa Zoro, one of the greatest swordsmen in the world, had grown up. This village, located in the East Blue, was a haven for samurai and sword enthusiasts. The village was named after the Shimotsuki family, descended from the great samurai Kozaburo Shimotsuki who had emigrated from Wano to settle and establish it. The Shimotsuki family had a rich history in swordsmanship, and Kai knew this was the perfect place to find a sword worthy of him.
There was no time to hesitate; every passing moment meant he was becoming a more obvious target for the Marines and bounty hunters. Kai prepared to set off, his massive wings fluttering powerfully as he extended them towards the sky. He ascended slowly and then accelerated, soaring through the clouds in search of the legendary village. He knew it wasn't far, somewhere in the vast ocean, and he had to find it.
Kai flew over several islands, looking down at their buildings and shores but found nothing of interest. Each island told a different story, some teeming with life and others abandoned as if time had stopped. But there was no sign of Shimotsuki Village, and doubt began to creep into his heart.
Then, in a moment of calm, his eyes lit up when he saw a different island. Its buildings featured a style similar to Wano homes, with traditional design and sturdy simplicity. Kai immediately confirmed: he had reached his destination. This island was definitely the one he was searching for.
Kai landed his massive wings on its rocky shore, the sand gently lapped by the waves. The wind carried with it the scent of the sea mixed with damp earth, a natural scene only found in such a place, steeped in rich history and deep-rooted traditions. Kai stood there for a moment, taking in the view, then moved slowly towards the village center.
As he walked through the narrow alleys, Kai couldn't help but notice the scrutinizing gazes of the people. Their eyes watched him with anticipation, some with curious expressions and others with wary ones. This was not a place that usually welcomed strangers, and it was clear that Kai's appearance had stirred some suspicion.
The village was not to be taken lightly; this peaceful place was inhabited by people known for their strength and bravery. It was extremely rare for anyone to dare intrude upon this safe haven, especially pirates who knew the locals here were no pushovers. This clarity was reflected in the cautious eyes of the villagers watching Kai.
Kai continued walking through the village, searching with his eyes for a place where he could buy or acquire a sword, or at least find one.
Kai wandered through the streets of Shimotsuki Village, catching the attentive looks of the residents. His deep voice mingled with the whispers about his simple inquiry: "Where can I buy a sword?" He did not expect to face an unusual commotion over his simple question. Confusion spread across faces, and questioning looks exchanged between him and some of the villagers. Some seemed surprised, while others displayed expressions of humor and mockery. "Who are you?" "Why are you asking about swords?" These questions floated in the air like the wind.
As Kai was surrounded by the clamor of the inquisitive, he felt every passing second heightened the tension of the situation. Then a loud voice from one of them said, "The village doesn't sell swords!" The laughing voices increased, expressing their lack of understanding of Kai's situation. It was clear that the village was not the right place to buy a sword, and Kai was completely lost in this moment.
Amidst the chaos, footsteps approached from a distance. They were heavy and steady, carrying an imposing presence. Everyone nearby suddenly fell silent, as if the music had stopped. They left Kai alone in the midst of the commotion and dispersed to their tasks as if a storm had passed.
A peculiar figure emerged, an old and venerable man dressed in attire suggesting distant origins, walking slowly toward Kai. Kai, watching with curiosity, needed little guessing to recognize this old man. His face reminded him of the stories of sword heroes he had read, and his traditional clothes confirmed his Japanese heritage.
As the old man drew nearer, Kai quickly recognized him. It was Kozaburo Shimotsuki, the famous samurai who had emigrated from Wano and settled in this village. Kai, feeling as if he had stepped back in time to a period worth exploring, was truly amazed. He found him here, in this rare calm village while he himself was surrounded by such upheaval.
Kai and the old man exchanged long looks. The old man gazed at him intently, as if trying to read the details of his face and understand his past. There was a profound silence, where everything in the air seemed to pause for a moment to contemplate this encounter.
Then the old man broke the silence with sharp words, "Does chaos follow you wherever you go?" There was no doubt in the old man's knowledge; he seemed to be aware of everything happening around Kai, perhaps through newspapers circulating everywhere. Kai felt these words reflected a deep contemplation of his character and adventures.
Kai replied with his usual coolness, "I want to buy a sword to help me in combat." This was his cry in the desert of inquiries, but it was met with laughter from the old man. "We don't sell swords here," said the old man, laughing, "You've taken me back to a time when I was a swordsmith, but now I am no longer one."
Kai responded with a steady gaze, showing no change in his expression. His eyes were intense and filled with determination as he looked at the old man. The old man said, "You remind me of myself. I was like you when I left my homeland of Wano, chasing my dream. I admired the things you're doing and the manga you created a shop for here a few days ago. I never thought I'd meet a young man who reminds me of myself in an old time."
The old man smiled as he turned to leave, "I'll show you something that might be what you're looking for. Follow me."
Kai followed Kozaburo through the streets of Shimotsuki Village with cautious focus. He observed the details of the scene around him, as the sounds of the breeze intertwined with the whispers of the amazed villagers. The old man walked ahead with confident strides, leading him to a place away from the village center. Kai imagined that the old man would take him to his home or an old workshop, but the surprise came when they reached the rocky beach he frequented.
The beach was surrounded by massive rocks, with the sea waves breaking the silence with continuous noise. Kozaburo settled on a large rock and sat for a few minutes, as if enjoying the sea view, while Kai stood at a distance, admiring and astonished. The scene was both serene and majestic, with the backdrop of the sea waves rhythmically crashing.
Kozaburo began to speak, his voice filling the horizon with wise phrases, "You want a sword, don't you? But the more important question is, do you deserve this sword?" He looked at Kai with a sharp gaze, as if searching the depths of his soul. "It is said that a sword chooses its owner. From your face, it seems you've never fought with a sword before. So, let's test your skills."
Slowly, Kozaburo opened the bag he had laid on the ground. The bag looked old and worn from frequent use. He pulled out a strange sword, and at first glance, it was clear that this sword was unlike any other. The sword's cover, known as the scabbard, was entirely black with intricate artistic engravings giving it a majestic and mysterious appearance. When Kozaburo drew the sword, it revealed a blade as red as blood, shining under the sunlight like a piece of fire.
There was no doubt that this sword was something special. The blade reflected light with a bright gleam as if it held ancient secrets. The sword was long and strong, as if created to fiercely defend its owner.
Calmly, Kai took the sword from Kozaburo's hand and felt the heavy weight of the blade as he grasped it for the first time. His heart raced wildly, as if the sword itself was testing his abilities. He felt as if he was holding a raging bull, and he had to prove his worth in controlling it. Every muscle in his body tensed, and his eyes focused on the sword, trying to understand how to interact with it.
The old man, with his stern features and piercing gaze, watched Kai coldly. He seemed to enjoy the challenge, as if seeing in Kai a reflection of his younger
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There are no words to describe how Kai felt when the sword settled in his hands for the first time, as if the sword's spirit had become at peace with his presence. His eyes widened in amazement, as the sensation of relaxation began to seep into every muscle in his body. His heart beat gently, and he felt every fiber of his being as if it were liberated from the weight he had been carrying. He no longer felt the burden of the sword but rather that it was an extension of himself, a piece of his soul harmonizing with his inner strength.
Kozaburo, standing with a demeanor of calm and wisdom, watched this transformation with eyes reflecting a mix of pride and astonishment. The old man paused for a moment before speaking deep words, "This sword has chosen you. I do not know how it happened, but great swords watch over people and select those who are worthy. Even my son, Koshiro, could not control it, yet now it is in your hands. It seems you possess a pure heart that I have not seen in my entire life."
The old man's words were like a mirror, reflecting the depth of his understanding of the true nature of swords. A smile appeared on Kai's face, even though he did not fully grasp what Kozaburo had said. His emotions began to align with the sword, and every touch made him love it more. He examined the sword from every angle, admiring its extraordinary beauty and the exquisite engravings that reflected the enchantment of legendary swords.
Then, Kai suddenly remembered that he had no money. He sank into his thoughts, his face showing signs of embarrassment and worry. He had no coin since moving here and had not earned any income from publishing manga chapters across the seas. The situation was perplexing, and thoughts of how to earn money occupied his mind.
Suddenly, Kozaburo's words intervened again, surprising Kai from his scattered thoughts. The old man said calmly, "The sword is yours now. I want nothing in return but for you to repay it by completing what you started, your adventure that I see in the manga. I have become fond of it, and that will be the price of the sword."
Kai suddenly realized that the old man was referring to the manga he was drawing. He felt a mix of surprise and gratitude, knowing that the situation had turned into a valuable opportunity to achieve his dream. Finally, the bargain was to complete the manga chapters in exchange for the legendary sword.
Kozaburo sat on the beach and took from his bag the manga chapter he had been reading. He sat with concentration and began to browse the manga pages with clear enjoyment. His commitment to the adventure that had just begun immersed him in a fantasy world, while Kai watched him with curiosity and happiness in his heart. There was nothing like witnessing this man, who had crafted legendary swords, enjoying reading his work.
Kai approached the old man, his eyes sparkling with happiness, and said, "I would be happy to complete what I started. The upcoming chapters will be available soon, and I promise they will meet your expectations."
The scene was enchanting, with the sea and sky blending into the horizon's backdrop, and the magic of the encounter between Kai and Kozaburo reflecting a moment full of excitement and hope. With the old man returning to read the manga with focus, Kai felt that every step of his journey had been worth the effort and that his dream of drawing the East Blue saga was closer to realization than ever before.
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