Kael stood motionless in the clearing, the faint burn on his shoulder the only sign that Franco had managed to land a blow. He sheathed his swords and stepped forward, his sharp gaze meeting Franco's.
"You've proven your strength," Kael said, his voice steady. "But brute force isn't enough. You lack the tools to truly channel your power."
Franco tilted his head, intrigued. "What do you mean?"
Kael gestured to the ring of stone markers surrounding the cabin. "A warrior's weapon is an extension of their soul. You have immense potential, but you've limited yourself to your fists and Devil Fruit powers. If you want to grow stronger, you'll need something more."
The crew exchanged curious glances, but Franco's attention was solely on Kael. "What do you suggest?"
Kael smirked faintly. "I'll show you."
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A Workshop Hidden in the Wild
Kael led the crew to a small workshop behind his cabin, tucked away beneath the trees. The room was filled with weapons of all kinds—axes, swords, spears, and more—each one meticulously crafted. A large forge sat in the corner, its embers glowing faintly.
"This is where I forge my weapons," Kael said, running a hand along a rack of gleaming blades. "Every piece here is made with care and precision. But for you, we'll create something unique."
Franco stepped forward, his large hands tracing the edges of a few weapons. None of them felt right. Then his gaze fell on a massive hammer resting in the corner. It was crude, unpolished, but its weight and balance seemed perfect.
Kael noticed his interest and chuckled. "A hammer, huh? Not many would choose something so unwieldy. But it suits you."
Franco picked up the hammer, testing its weight. It felt natural in his hands—powerful and destructive. "This will do."
Lynara, observing from the side, tilted her head. "A hammer? Sounds... simple."
Kael shook his head. "A hammer in the hands of someone like him can be devastating. But he'll need something to complement it."
Kael rummaged through a nearby chest and pulled out a large, rusted hook attached to a thick chain. "And this."
Franco raised an eyebrow. "A hook?"
Kael nodded. "It's not just a weapon—it's a tool for control. Use it to pull your enemies closer, disrupt their movements, and keep the battle in your favor."
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Forging the Weapons
The next few days were spent refining the hammer and hook to suit Franco's needs. Kael worked tirelessly at the forge, shaping the raw materials into masterpieces. Franco watched closely, learning not only about the weapons but also about the effort and skill required to create them.
The hammer was reinforced with steel and given a lightning-resistant core to channel Franco's Devil Fruit powers. Its head was massive, etched with intricate designs that seemed to crackle with energy. The hook and chain were polished and sharpened, the links strong enough to withstand even the strongest of opponents.
Markus leaned against the wall, watching the process. "I'll admit, this guy knows his craft."
Lynara smirked. "Let's hope Franco knows how to use it."
Taro remained quiet but observant, his sharp eyes taking in every detail.
When the weapons were finally complete, Kael handed them to Franco. "These are yours now. They'll amplify your strength, but it's up to you to master them."
Franco took the hammer in one hand and the hook in the other, feeling their weight and balance. He gave a small nod of approval. "Thank you."
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A Trial of Mastery
Kael wasn't done testing Franco. "Now that you have your weapons, let's see how well you can use them."
The crew returned to the clearing, where Kael stood waiting, his twin swords drawn once more. "This time, the challenge is different. You'll face me alone. Show me how you've grown."
Franco gripped his hammer tightly, his gaze steady. The rest of the crew watched from the sidelines, eager to see how their captain would fare.
Kael moved first, his swords flashing as he closed the distance. Franco swung his hammer in a wide arc, the sheer force of the blow creating a gust of wind. Kael dodged, but the hammer's impact left a crater in the ground.
Without hesitation, Franco hurled his hook toward Kael, the chain unraveling like a serpent. Kael sidestepped the attack, but Franco pulled the chain back, using the momentum to swing the hammer again. This time, Kael blocked with his swords, but the force sent him skidding back.
"You're learning," Kael said, his voice calm. "But you're still relying on raw power."
Franco smirked. "Then I'll show you more."
He planted the hammer into the ground and summoned a surge of electricity through it. The energy spread in a wave, forcing Kael to leap into the air. Franco anticipated the move, swinging the hook upward to meet him. The hook grazed Kael's side, drawing a thin line of blood.
Kael landed gracefully, his expression neutral. "Impressive. But let's see how you handle this."
He charged again, his swords moving faster than before. Franco used the hook to parry one blade and the hammer to block the other. The clash of metal and sparks filled the clearing as the two warriors exchanged blows.
Finally, Franco saw an opening. He swung the hammer in a downward arc, forcing Kael to block with both swords. At the same time, Franco used the hook to wrap around Kael's ankle, pulling him off balance. With a final surge of strength, Franco slammed the hammer into the ground, sending a shockwave that knocked Kael back.
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Earning Respect
Kael rose to his feet, brushing the dirt from his tunic. He sheathed his swords and nodded. "You've done well. These weapons are an extension of you now."
Franco straightened, his chest rising and falling from exertion. "Will you join us?"
Kael smirked faintly. "You've earned my respect, and I see potential in you. Very well—I'll join your crew."
The crew erupted in cheers, their excitement filling the clearing. Franco extended a hand, and Kael clasped it firmly.
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End of Chapter 21
This chapter introduces Franco's new weapons—a hammer and hook—and showcases his growth as a warrior. The trial with Kael not only cements their bond but also highlights Franco's adaptability and strength.
Would you like to proceed to Chapter 22?