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Wanokuni's annual grand ceremony, especially around the New Year, had the people in high spirits. Freed from past hardships and hopeful for the future, everyone celebrated deep into the night.
Even late into the night, the lively sounds of the festival echoed across the land. When dawn arrived, most people had finally fallen asleep, and Wanokuni lay in an unusually quiet morning hush—a contrast from the past.
Amid this calm, Alex, who had joined in the previous night's revelry with the citizens, slept in until almost noon, a rare indulgence. While his strength could easily carry him through several sleepless nights, it was the peaceful atmosphere that lulled him into a longer rest.
He looked down at the beautiful woman sleeping beside him. In the past, even if Toki had been free to use her abilities, she would have chosen to stay, wanting to witness Wanokuni's gradual transformation. Her commitment was rooted in the desire to see their shared bet fulfilled—watching the land progress step by step through time.
Now, Alex felt certain. Even without her dream or constraints, she wouldn't choose to leave his side. He was taking her and her ability into his hands.
Reflecting on the rocky beginnings of their partnership, he recalled how he'd initially bound her to him out of a desire to steer fate in his favor, holding on until the Dark-Dark Fruit resurfaced in his plans.
Yet, through his deepening understanding of emotions and his skill in "hearing others' hearts," he had achieved his goal—securing both his ambitions and her companionship in perfect harmony.
As he dressed, Toki stirred, her eyes opening slowly. She tried to get up but felt her strength falter, only for Alex to gently press her back down.
"Take the day off," he said, feigning thoughtfulness as he rearranged the bedding around her. "You don't need to see me off when I leave."
Toki's cheeks flushed as she averted her gaze, mumbling, "Who wants to see you off, you forceful shogun?"
Despite her words, she appreciated the gesture, glancing at him with a hint of gratitude.
"Then, Wanokuni is in your hands, Toki," Alex said, leaning down to kiss her softly before heading to the door. Pausing as if a thought had struck him, he turned back with a smirk. "I'll gladly accept the title of Shogun Brute Force. I'll take it as a compliment."
Before she could respond, Alex had already left. Toki was left with a faint blush, pressing her hands to her cheeks as if her thoughts were betraying her calm. After a few minutes, she sighed, looking up at the ceiling, wrapped herself back in the blanket, and closed her eyes again, letting herself drift.
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By early afternoon, all preparations were complete.
With two impatient companions and a handful of chefs and geisha from Wanokuni on board, they took their places on the ship. Under the influence of the Float-Float Fruit, the vessel lifted gracefully from the square, rising into the air to begin its voyage overseas from Wanokuni.
Under the open sky, the scenery ahead suddenly broadened, revealing the vast seascape beyond Wanokuni.
"So, this is what the world overseas looks like! Incredible! Look, those carp really swim all the way up the waterfall!" Yamato's enthusiastic voice rang out from the deck, drawing smiles from Black Maria and others watching with fascination.
Most of those aboard had lived their entire lives within Wanokuni's seas. Venturing beyond its borders for the first time, they marveled at the sights, sparking fresh, eager conversations among the crew.
After several hours, however, the novelty began to fade as the coastline of Wanokuni vanished completely from view.
"The outside world really is vast," Yamato mused, gazing out at the endless blue ocean. The sunlight shimmered on the waves, transforming the water into a dazzling expanse of gold and blue.
"Of course it is! Yamato, didn't you pay attention to what we learned in class?" Maria teased, covering her mouth with a chuckle.
Yamato scratched his head, laughing sheepishly. "It's not that, I just—knowing there are four seas outside Wanokuni, the Grand Line, and even stranger places like Fish-Man Island and Sky Island, it's all so surreal!"
"That's true," Maria agreed, nodding. "Just like Master Alex said, we're here to expand our horizons. Isn't it wonderful to sail on the open sea?"
When Maria noticed Alex emerging from the master bedroom, she instantly lit up, hurrying over to greet him with a beaming smile. Though she was nearly as tall as him now, she was still very young, and when Alex affectionately patted her head, she gave a delighted, almost childlike grin.
"There are many wondrous places across the sea," Alex said, having overheard their conversation. "And when you're older and strong enough, I'll make sure you get to experience them for yourselves."
"Really, Alex?" Yamato's eyes sparkled with excitement.
Maria, however, leaned into Alex's touch and giggled. "I'm more interested in becoming the No. 1 star by Master Alex's side," she teased, flashing Yamato a playful smile.
Yamato puffed out her cheeks. "Maria, that's so disappointing! I wanted to explore the seas together when we're older!"
Maria raised an eyebrow, laughing softly. "That's Hiyori's and my dream. And besides, you won't be alone. By the end of this journey, who knows? Mr. Alex might find us some new crewmates."
With a mischievous smile, she leaned against Alex, enjoying the gentle pressure of his hand on her head.
Curious, Yamato bounced closer, looking up at Alex. "Alex, is that true?"
Seeing her eagerness, Maria's smile grew even brighter.
Alex chuckled, playfully pinching her cheek. "I do have my own objectives on this trip. But perhaps, along the way, we'll meet people who have the potential to join us—maybe even some strong future allies for Wanokuni."
Yamato's eyes sparkled with renewed excitement, and Maria looked up thoughtfully. She knew Alex was incredibly discerning in choosing his allies. If he was open to recruiting, they must be exceptional individuals. For someone so particular to even hint at finding new members stirred a deep curiosity within her.