---
The Eclipse's Shadow sailed deeper into the Grand Line, its crew growing stronger with each battle but also more aware of their limitations. As the challenges mounted, Michael couldn't ignore the strain his crew faced. Their fights were becoming tougher, and while he could hold his own with his mastery of Observation and Armament Haki, his crew was still catching up. Lia had started to grasp the basics of Observation Haki, but Saria and Amara hadn't even begun to scratch the surface.
The decision was clear. They needed time away from the chaos of the Grand Line to grow stronger, sharpen their skills, and prepare for the inevitable battles ahead.
Michael gathered the crew on the deck one evening as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sea in shades of orange and gold. "We're taking a detour," he announced. "We need time to train, to strengthen ourselves for what's ahead."
Amara crossed her arms, her katana resting on her shoulder. "You think we're not ready?"
Michael shook his head. "I think we're strong—but we can be stronger. The Grand Line isn't going to get easier. If we keep pushing forward without preparing, we're putting ourselves at risk."
Saria nodded thoughtfully. "You're right. We've been relying on our natural abilities, but that won't be enough against the stronger crews."
Lia adjusted her exoskeleton, her mechanical tail swishing behind her. "Training sounds good. And if we're laying low, I can work on upgrades without distractions."
Michael smirked. "Then it's decided. We'll find a quiet island and stay off the radar for a few months. When we come back, we'll be unstoppable."
---
They found the perfect island a week later—remote, uninhabited, and surrounded by thick forests and rocky cliffs. The island had everything they needed: fresh water, plentiful wildlife, and natural barriers to keep unwanted visitors away. The crew docked The Eclipse's Shadow in a hidden cove and began setting up a temporary camp.
Michael wasted no time outlining their training regimen. "We're focusing on Haki and the Six Powers. Observation and Armament Haki will be your foundation. As for the Six Powers, choose one or two techniques to master. They'll give you an edge in combat."
Amara grinned. "I'll take Soru. Speed's my thing."
Saria flexed her claws, her green eyes sharp with determination. "I'll go with Shigan. A quick strike fits my style."
Lia adjusted her tools. "I'll focus on improving my armor. If I can make it more mobile, I'll be able to keep up with everyone without needing the Six Powers."
Michael nodded. "Good. I'll be training with you, too. I'm working on mastering Kami-e. If I can combine it with Observation Haki, it'll be a valuable addition to my arsenal."
---
The months that followed were grueling. Each day began before sunrise and ended long after sunset, the crew pushing themselves to their limits.
Michael spent hours honing Kami-e, his Observation Haki guiding him as he practiced flowing like paper, dodging attacks with minimal effort. He sparred with Amara and Saria, forcing them to adapt to his unpredictable movements. His mastery grew steadily, each session refining his control and precision.
Amara's training focused on Soru, the rapid-movement technique. She sprinted through the forest, dodging trees and leaping over obstacles, her speed increasing with every passing week. By the end of the second month, she could vanish from sight in an instant, her movements a blur to the untrained eye.
Saria dedicated herself to Shigan, practicing with relentless focus. She struck boulders, trees, and even the air, her finger strikes growing faster and more powerful. By the fourth month, her Shigan was strong enough to pierce steel.
Lia, meanwhile, secluded herself in her workshop, tinkering with her exoskeleton. She worked tirelessly to add retractable wings, crafting lightweight but durable components that wouldn't compromise the armor's functionality. Her Observation Haki also improved, allowing her to predict and counter attacks more effectively.
Michael took time to train the crew in Haki as well. He worked closely with Amara and Saria, teaching them the basics of Observation and Armament Haki. Progress was slow at first, but both women showed remarkable determination. By the end of the training period, Amara could coat her katana with Armament Haki, while Saria's Observation Haki allowed her to sense movements before they happened.
---
Six months passed in the blink of an eye, the crew emerging from their isolation stronger and more united than ever. Michael stood at the center of their camp one evening, his arms crossed as he observed their progress.
"Show me what you've got," he said, his tone commanding but proud.
Amara stepped forward first, vanishing from sight with a burst of Soru before reappearing behind a training dummy and slicing it cleanly in half. Her Armament-coated blade shimmered in the fading light.
Saria followed, her claws glowing faintly with Armament Haki as she launched a rapid series of Shigan strikes, each one leaving deep dents in a steel plate they had salvaged from The Eclipse's Shadow.
Lia activated her exoskeleton, the retractable wings unfolding smoothly from the back. She leapt into the air, firing a barrage of shots from her mounted guns while maneuvering gracefully through the sky.
Michael smirked. "Impressive. All of you."
Amara grinned, resting her katana on her shoulder. "So, what now, Captain?"
Michael turned toward the horizon, the smirk never leaving his face. "Now, we take what we've learned and show the Grand Line what The Requiem is truly capable of."
The crew cheered, their confidence unshaken. As they prepared to set sail once more, the island faded into the background, a symbol of their growth and determination.
The Grand Line awaited, its challenges looming larger than ever. But The Requiem was ready to face them head-on, their bond stronger and their skills sharper than ever. Their legend was far from over—it was just beginning.