Franco's massive feet left deep impressions in the earth with every step he took. As he moved toward the village, his mind raced with questions. There were so many things he needed to know. Who controlled this land? What factions were in power? Were the seas dangerous? How would he find others like him—warriors with the strength to back him up?
The village grew closer, and Franco could now hear the sounds of life: people talking, the clatter of tools, and the distant calls of animals. It was a simple, quiet place, not unlike the villages he had seen in the books of his past life. But the peaceful atmosphere didn't fool him. One Piece was never peaceful for long.
As he approached the village, the ground beneath him continued to shake, albeit subtly. His massive form must have been an intimidating sight. The villagers would have seen him coming for miles, and he imagined that their first instinct would be to panic. Franco, however, had no intention of bringing harm. He needed answers, and he needed to gather information.
He paused for a moment at the edge of the village, crouching down so he could speak to the people face-to-face. He was keenly aware of how much of a giant he appeared. There were people scattered throughout the village, but when they saw him, their faces filled with fear and confusion.
A man—probably in his late fifties—stepped forward hesitantly. He had gray hair and a thick beard, his eyes hardened by years of experience. He was likely the village leader.
"Who… who are you?" the man asked, his voice shaky but firm. "What do you want from us?"
Franco's deep voice rumbled like distant thunder. "I am Franco. I have come for information. I need to know more about this world."
The villagers, although unsure of his intentions, took a cautious step back. They had heard of giants, but this one was unlike any they had encountered before. Franco didn't want to seem threatening, so he lowered his massive frame even further, kneeling so he could look the man in the eye.
"I do not seek to harm you," Franco continued, "I am not here to take anything from you. I seek only knowledge. Teach me about this world, and I will protect you from harm. In return, I will offer my strength."
The village leader eyed him warily, but after a tense silence, he nodded. "We are simple folk. We don't have much, but if you are truly here to learn, we can teach you what we know."
Franco nodded in return, the first step in his journey beginning. He would stay here for a time, learn the ways of this land, and perhaps forge his first alliance.
As the villagers gathered around him, Franco's mind began to race again. This was just the beginning. The journey to become the strongest man in the world would take him to places he couldn't even imagine yet.
But one thing was certain: he would not be alone in this quest.
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This is just the beginning of Franco's slow-paced journey. Over time, he will gradually discover more about his powers, the world around him, and build his crew. Each chapter will focus on him mastering his abilities, making connections, and exploring the intricacies of this vast world.
Would you like to proceed to the next chapter or expand on any part of this one?