Tenshinhan stood on the deck of his boat, the Eclipsia, a vessel gifted to him by the people of Alabasta, a kind gesture that he intended to cherish as long as possible. He threw punch after punch, targeting nothing in particular, as he focused on honing his armament haki. It was functional, but he realized that it wasn't enough. His battle with the metal robot had revealed that he wasn't yet strong enough to face the mightiest foes in this world. He needed to become stronger, and that required dedicated training.
Tenshinhan understood that he couldn't rely solely on luck and marginal skills to get by. There were formidable adversaries out there, and he needed to prepare himself for the monumental battles that lay ahead. This journey wasn't a race; he didn't have to rush through it as if there were a deadline hanging over his head. If he didn't take the time to train and prepare properly, he risked failure, and that was a fate he couldn't accept.
"Captain, I can tell something important is on your mind," Tashigi commented, her hair blowing in the breeze as she observed him. It was evident that she had noticed something was bothering him. As his first mate and the one closest to the three-eyed warrior, she knew him very well.
"We aren't ready. I want to prepare for the battles ahead so that we can face anyone with confidence and be ready for any challenge," he explained, his gaze fixed on Tashigi.
Tashigi paused, then nodded. "In that case, I'll call a meeting. We should discuss this as a crew and come up with a plan to get stronger. I'm not going against your orders, Commander, but let's work together on this," she said with a firm tone that conveyed her seriousness.
A bit later, in the meeting room around the round table, the entire crew had gathered. Boa, Tashigi, Nami, Robin, Baby 5, Viola, Vivi, and Baccarat were present, as were Pudding and Reiju, who were still guests at that moment. Tien looked around at the group that had assembled and stood calmly, gazing at each member. He had no idea how they would react, but he believed in being honest and direct with them.
"Now, ladies," Tenshinhan began in a soft tone, "I know we've come a long way and faced numerous challenges together. We've overcome every obstacle in our path. As we approach the final leg of our journey, I can't help but feel unprepared. This grand adventure isn't a race, but I want to take the time to spend a year preparing and training. I want to be absolutely ready to face the great pirates of this world and defeat them. I want to ensure I'm strong enough to overcome anyone who stands in our way."
Tenshinhan paused for a moment to let his words sink in. "If any of you wish to leave now, I won't hold it against you. You have your own dreams and adventures to pursue, and you've been an incredible crew. Pudding, Reiju, we can make a stop at an island to find transportation for you to return home. I owe you both a great debt, and I don't want to keep you tied to my journey if you have other aspirations."
As Tenshinhan finished speaking, a profound silence filled the room. Each member of the crew sat still, processing his words. It was an unusual moment, one that had the potential to change the course of their journey. All eyes were on the captain, waiting for the crew's reaction.
Boa Hancock, with her regal composure, was the first to speak. "Tenshinhan," she began, her voice carrying a hint of warmth, "your commitment to becoming stronger is admirable. You have been a wonderful captain, and your dedication to our crew's success is undeniable. I am with you in this decision. We shall prepare together."
Tashigi, the loyal first mate, nodded in agreement. "Captain, I share your sentiment," she said firmly. "Our crew has faced countless challenges together, and we have grown stronger with each one. Taking the time to prepare is a wise choice. I'm sure the crew will understand."
Nami, the crew's navigator, chimed in next. "Tenshinhan, we've come this far as a team," she said with a wry smile. "I've always believed in your leadership, and I trust your judgment. If this is what you feel is best for us, then I'm on board."
Robin, known for her wisdom, spoke thoughtfully. "Preparing for the challenges ahead is essential," she remarked. "We have uncovered many mysteries during our journey, and we may uncover more. I am here to support your decision, Captain."
Baby 5, with her ever-changing emotions, looked at Tenshinhan and said, "I'll do whatever you want, Captain. If you think we need this, then I'm all in."
Viola, with her gentle demeanor, added, "Tenshinhan, you've always led us well. I believe in your vision for our future. We'll support you."
Vivi, the former princess, expressed her thoughts. "Captain, I've seen your dedication and strength," she said. "If you think this is necessary, then it's the right decision. We'll stand by you."
Baccarat, who had become an integral part of the crew, smiled warmly at Tenshinhan. "Captain, I've enjoyed every moment of our journey together," she said. "I trust your judgment completely. Let's prepare together."
Pudding and Reiju, the two guests on board, exchanged glances. Pudding stepped forward, her voice filled with determination. "Tenshinhan," she began, "you've shown me kindness and acceptance. I want to be a part of your crew, no matter the challenges we face."
Reiju, with her strong sense of purpose, added, "I'm interested in the technology and knowledge we might find during this preparation. Count me in, Captain."
The room was filled with a sense of unity and resolve. Tenshinhan's decision had been met with overwhelming support from his crew, both old and new. The path ahead was clear—they would take the time to prepare, grow stronger, and face the challenges of the New World together.
As the crew began to discuss their preparations, Tenshinhan felt a deep sense of gratitude and pride. His decision to take the time to train and grow stronger had been met with overwhelming support, and he knew he was fortunate to have such a dedicated and capable crew.
"Then we should start to prepare," Tenshinhan reiterated, his voice filled with determination. "You beautiful women know this land better than I do, and I will trust your advice as we find a place to train and work—a place to grow stronger and improve as warriors and people."
He observed how their guests, Pudding and Reiju, had seamlessly integrated themselves into the crew during this pivotal moment. It was a subtle but heartwarming confirmation that they had become an official part of the Eclipsia's crew.
Listening to the crew's suggestions and plans, Tenshinhan knew that their journey was about to take a different turn. They were all determined to improve themselves, not only to support their captain but also to face the formidable challenges awaiting them in the New World. The path to becoming even stronger had been chosen, and they were ready to embark on this new phase of their adventure together.
Many places were talked about, but ultimately, the choice was another ruined filled island of Shizenka, they would of course get lots of supplies for the year as they were going to an uninhabited island for a year, but there was an island with a small town that was a short hop away too. Robin was the one who suggested the island as she heard about it from her readings long before and had been curious about visiting the island. Plus the island was not that far from where they were either the training island or the populated one. They could get supplies, and then head to the island getting there in a few days.
The crew had made their choice, and they worked diligently to prepare the ship for the incoming supplies. The large vessel could accommodate months' worth of provisions, but they needed to reorganize the cargo hold to ensure everything was easily accessible. It was essential to create an inventory of the items they had left and replace what had been used since their departure from Fishman Island.
The crew collaborated closely to make the best use of the available space and rearrange their goods efficiently. It was a hectic two days, but they managed to get everything in order. Nami took charge of negotiations when they reached the island, skillfully bargaining for supplies and goods using the money they had acquired from the temple. She also had a list of personal requests from each crew member, ensuring everyone's needs and desires were addressed.
The journey from the temple island to Shizenka was brief. Soon, the crew laid eyes on their new home, hidden away from the rest of the world, providing them with a secluded year to prepare. Shizenka boasted lush jungles, towering mountain peaks, and pristine beaches, a sight to behold.
Tenshinhan was completely focused on his quest to become the strongest version of himself for the challenges that lay ahead. However, he hadn't considered the most basic aspect of his situation: he would be spending a year on an island with ten of the most beautiful women in the world, all of whom held deep affection for him.
As the crew dropped anchor, their year of training and preparation began. They explored the beautiful beach, taking in the natural beauty around them. Waves lapped at the shore, and each crew member was committed to growing stronger and creating lasting memories during their time on the island.