The hesitation in Shanks' eyes vanished, replaced by firm determination, his gaze burning like flames.
"No, we go now." Shanks' voice echoed across the deck as he gripped Griffin's hilt.
"Captain Roger's will can't end here. The new era must be set back on its proper course!"
Shanks' voice carried on the sea breeze.
He knew that as the inheritor of Captain Roger's will, it was his responsibility to step forward at this critical moment—to buy Luffy and the others a chance at survival, and to fight for that hopeful future.
"Full speed ahead! Destination: Foosha Village!"
Upon receiving the order, the helmsman turned the wheel.
The Red Force's sails billowed full.
On the sea surface, it carved a graceful arc, shooting toward Foosha Village like an arrow released from its bow.
Lucky Roo munched on a chicken leg, mumbling, "Are we fighting that terrifying old man again?"
Though his tone carried a hint of complaint, his eyes revealed a spark of eager combativeness.
Shanks pressed his hand against Griffin's hilt, his gaze sharp as a torch, fixed on the approaching coastline.
There waited the youth he placed his hopes in—Luffy, Zoro, and Sanji—they represented the promise of the new era.
And there too waited the person he least wanted to face—Garp.
Beneath the calm seas of East Blue, undercurrents were stirring.
Beneath the tranquil sea depths lurked countless unknown dangers and challenges.
The gears of fate were about to turn once more in this unremarkable little fishing village...
...
The Land of Wano, after enduring a prolonged and brutal baptism by war, finally began to clear.
The sky, once shrouded in smoke and haze, now appeared as if washed clean—azure like the deep ocean, pure and transparent.
Sunlight poured down, illuminating this land weathered by time.
On the battlefields where smoke had dissipated, chaos reigned supreme.
Crumbling walls and debris spoke volumes of the fierce battles that had raged.
Yet the surviving samurai refused to be defeated by this devastating scene, methodically gathering themselves.
These warriors—some in shattered armor but with spines still straight, others bearing wounds yet with eyes burning with unwavering determination—came from every corner of Wano, united by a common belief.
The Flower Capital, once a city of prosperity, now showed some wear, but its people's hearts brimmed with hope.
Throughout its streets and alleys, citizens emerged from their homes, faces radiant with the joy of survival and anticipation for the future.
Calloused yet powerful hands hoisted high the crimson banners symbolizing the Eternal Divine Kingdom.
The flags fluttered in the breeze like dancing flames, igniting fighting spirit in people's hearts.
Rasetsu, Ringo, Hakumai... citizens from every town and village responded in turn.
Some carried farming tools, others shouldered packs, while others led young children by hand—all marching into the streets. Children's eyes sparkled with curiosity and courage.
Though too young to comprehend the war's significance, they could feel the resolve burning in the adults around them.
Spontaneously gathering, the people hung the red banners in every prominent location, immersing the Land of Wano in an atmosphere both fervent and solemn.
Along the Kuri coast, golden sands glittered under the sunlight as waves lapped the shore with soothing sounds.
Thousands of rebel troops boarded ships in an orderly fashion, forming neat ranks with steady footsteps.
Warships lined the coastline—sturdy, imposing vessels poised for action.
Sea spray crashed against the shore, scattering crystalline droplets. Samurai armor gleamed under the sun, reflecting a dazzling brilliance.
Denjiro stood tall upon the high dock, his katana pointing toward Onigashima.
The blade shimmered with a chilling gleam, capable of severing all darkness.
"Everyone! The final battle to overthrow Kaido begins today!"
Denjiro's voice resonated, piercing through souls to awaken their fighting spirit.
The crowd erupted in thunderous roars that seemed capable of tearing through the heavens, proclaiming their determination to the world.
Kawamatsu wiped his beloved blade, his movements focused.
The citizens of Wano, oppressed for twenty years, now burned with flames of vengeance in their eyes—flames that represented both catharsis for past sufferings and a yearning for future peace.
At the crowd's center, Momonosuke stood protected within a tight circle formed by Kin'emon, Kikunojo, and the other Nine Red Scabbards.
They stood like an impregnable fortress, shielding Momonosuke at their core.
Women were forbidden from approaching this circle, forming an impenetrable line of defense.
Kiku stood at the outermost perimeter, spear in hand, her posture agile and eyes sharp like a vigilant leopard.
Her gaze swept the surroundings, leaving no potential danger unchecked. Her spear was held at the ready to confront any situation that might arise.
"We can't let the shogun 'erupt' again!" Kin'emon whispered to his companions, sweat beading on his forehead.
Kin'emon's eyes revealed a trace of tension and worry as he recalled their journey—each time Momonosuke "erupted" had left them terrified.
They'd witnessed Momonosuke's sudden "eruptions" far too many times along the way!
When they departed from the Flower Capital, the streets were bustling and lively.
A flower-selling girl accidentally brushed against Momonosuke, and a deafening explosion shattered the street's clamor.
The blast shook the surrounding buildings, sending dust flying as Momonosuke screamed in agony.
Those nearby were thrown into panic by the sudden chaos.
At the Ringo ferry, a female boatman eagerly approached to offer help to the rebel army.
Yet, when her hand inadvertently touched Momonosuke, another earth-shattering explosion erupted.
The boat's side was blown open, seawater flooding in. Everyone scrambled to respond, narrowly averting disaster.
Even while traversing the forest, a female wanderer appeared before them.
Whether drawn by the group's aura or seeking assistance, when she reached out to touch Momonosuke, another explosion occurred.
Trees were blasted askew, branches and leaves scattering everywhere.
Momonosuke was once again plunged into agony, forcing the group to halt and deal with the turmoil.
Each incident was accompanied by horrifying explosions and screams that seemed to echo in their ears, keeping their hearts in their throats.
"He's exploding again..."