Chapter 45: The Ancient Island
---
Entering the Grand Line
After the intense battle with Admiral Kanji, the Silverhair Pirates set their sights on the Grand Line. They had chosen the same route taken by the Straw Hat Pirates, aiming to reach the famed shipbuilding city, Water 7, to build a ship of their own.
Arthur stood at the helm, gazing at the horizon. "The first stop is Whiskey Peak. It's a place known for bounty hunters, but right now, it's just an ordinary town. Let's make sure we don't attract too much attention."
Lisa, the navigator, nodded. "We should reach Whiskey Peak by nightfall."
---
Whiskey Peak
The town of Whiskey Peak was bustling with activity when the Silverhair Pirates arrived. The local residents, accustomed to seeing pirates, greeted them with curiosity rather than fear.
"This place seems lively," Alex observed as they docked. "Let's see what it has to offer."
Arthur led his crew into town, where they experienced the local delicacies and witnessed some of the unique cultural practices of the Grand Line.
"This is the great route?" Hiroshi mused. "It feels different from the North and South Blue."
"It's the same sea breeze everywhere," Lisa said, teasing him. "Just a bit more adventurous."
---
**Next Stop: Little Garden**
After a day of rest, the crew set sail for their next destination: Little Garden, also known as the Island of Giants. Arthur remembered this island well, having heard legends about the giant warriors of Elbaf.
"If I remember correctly, this island is home to some ancient creatures and two very interesting warriors," Arthur said as they sailed. "They could be valuable allies."
---
Arrival at Little Garden
After a day and night of sailing, Rio, who was on lookout duty, shouted, "Captain, look! There's an island ahead!"
The crew gathered on deck, their eyes widening as they saw the towering trees and dense forest of Little Garden.
"Is this really an island on our route?" Surv, a crewmember from the New World, asked, surprised by the island's ancient appearance.
"This is Little Garden, also known as the Island of Giants," Dr. Megulus explained. "It's home to ancient creatures and two legendary warriors of the Elbaf giant clan."
---
**Exploring Little Garden**
The crew disembarked and began exploring the island. They were immediately struck by the giant plants and the atmosphere, which felt like stepping back in time.
"This place is incredible," Arthur said, admiring the towering trees. "Let's see what we can find."
As they ventured deeper into the island, they heard loud crashing sounds coming from the center of the forest.
"What's that noise?" Hiroshi asked, gripping his sword.
"It sounds like a battle," Rio replied, his eyes narrowing.
"Let's check it out," Arthur said, leading the way.
---
As they approached the source of the noise, they saw two massive figures locked in combat. It was Brogy the Red Ogre and Dorry the Blue Ogre, two legendary warriors of Elbaf.
The ground shook with each of their blows, and the sheer power of their battle left the crew in awe.
"Those are the giants of Elbaf," Surv whispered. "They've been fighting for over a hundred years."
Arthur stepped forward. "Giants of Elbaf! We come in peace. We wish to speak with you."
The giants paused their battle and turned to face the crew. Brogy, the Red Ogre, boomed, "Who dares interrupt our duel?"
Arthur raised his hands in a gesture of peace. "I am Sergio D. Arthur, captain of the Silverhair Pirates. We seek your help and alliance."
---
The giants listened as Arthur explained their journey and their desire to unite strong allies against the corrupt elements of the world.
Brogy and Dorry exchanged glances. "You have courage, little human," Dorry said. "But why should we trust you?"
Arthur met their gaze with determination. "Because we fight for justice and freedom. Join us, and together we can bring about a better world."
After a moment of contemplation, the giants nodded. "Very well, Sergio D. Arthur. We will join you."
The crew cheered, their bond with the giants solidified. With their new allies, the Silverhair Pirates continued their exploration of Little Garden, ready for whatever challenges lay ahead.
---
As they ventured deeper into the island, the crew encountered various ancient creatures, including dinosaurs. The towering beasts roamed the island, adding to its prehistoric charm.
"Look out!" Rio shouted as a massive dinosaur charged at them.
The crew sprang into action. Hiroshi and Dr. Megulus, their swords at the ready, faced the dinosaur head-on. "Let's take it down!" Hiroshi yelled.
Lisa and Surv used their Haki-infused attacks to distract the beast while Alex provided cover fire. The combined efforts of the crew quickly brought the dinosaur down.
"This island is full of surprises," Arthur said, catching his breath. "Let's keep moving."
---
Dr. Megulus, who had studied the routes of the Grand Line extensively, guided the crew through the island. "This place is called the Island of Primordial Antiquity for a reason. It's a living museum of ancient creatures."
"How do you know so much about this place?" Hiroshi asked, impressed.
"I did my research," Dr. Megulus replied with a grin. "And this island left a deep impression on me."
---
As they continued their journey, they came across a particularly dense part of the forest. The trees were so tall and lush that the sunlight barely reached the ground.
"This place feels different," Lisa said, her senses on high alert.
Suddenly, they heard loud crashing sounds and roars. "That sounds like another battle," Surv observed.
"Let's check it out," Arthur said, leading the way.
---
**The Ancient Warriors' Duel**
The crew arrived at a clearing where they saw Brogy and Dorry engaged in their duel once more. The ground shook with each of their powerful strikes.
"Those giants never stop fighting," Rio said, awestruck.
"It's their way," Arthur replied. "Let's not interfere."
The crew watched as the giants clashed, their battle a testament to their strength and determination. It was a sight that inspired awe and respect in the Silverhair Pirates.
---
As they were about to leave, Arthur's Observation Haki picked up a new presence. "We're not alone," he said, his eyes narrowing.
From the shadows, a group of pirates emerged, led by a burly man with a scar across his face. "Looks like we've got some uninvited guests," he sneered.
Arthur stepped forward, his bisento at the ready. "State your business."
The pirate leader laughed. "We're here for the same reason you are. To conquer this island and claim its treasures."
"Then you'll have to go through us," Arthur said, his voice cold and determined.
The crew of the Silverhair Pirates engaged the intruders in a fierce battle. Arthur led the charge, his Haki-infused strikes cutting through the enemy ranks.
Alex and Hiroshi fought side by side, their skills honed to perfection. "We've faced worse," Alex said, taking down an opponent with a precise shot.
Hiroshi nodded. "Let's show them what we're made of."
Lisa and Surv used their combined abilities to create powerful attacks, while Rio provided cover fire from a distance. Dr. Megulus, now proficient in both Armament and Observation Haki, healed his allies and fought off enemies with deadly precision.
The Silverhair Pirates stood victorious, the intruders defeated and the giants of Elbaf as their allies. The crew regrouped, their spirits high after the intense battle.
Arthur looked at his crew, pride swelling in his chest. "We've come a long way, and we've made powerful allies. Our journey is far from over, but I know we can face whatever comes our way."
The crew cheered, their spirits high. They set sail once more, ready to conquer the Grand Line and make their mark on the world.
--