Chapter 6

[Author Notes: Ayooo Another Update within 24 hours?!! Very not me from someone who ghosted this book for like 2 yearHAHAAHA but enjoyyy readers 🫰]

/The Flame and The Spade

*MC's POV:*

Seven years had passed since Ace and I were left in Dadan's care, and life on Dawn Island had settled into a familiar rhythm. The days were filled with exploring the forest, climbing trees, and occasionally stealing from passing bandits, while the nights were spent around the campfire, listening to Dadan's gruff stories or simply enjoying the quiet. But beneath this simple life, something extraordinary had been brewing for the past two years.

The day I turned five was a turning point. That morning, as the sun rose over the mountains, the long-awaited notification echoed in my mind.

*System Activated.*

It was like a switch had been flipped. I had access to the Akatsuki Summoning System, stats, and a shop filled with everything from mundane items to powerful abilities. Since then, I had been carefully using the system to boost my stats and prepare for the future. It wasn't just about survival—it was about making sure Ace and I thrived in this world.

My base stats had seen a significant improvement. I focused on strength, agility, and intelligence, ensuring I could keep up with Ace, who, even at a young age, showed a natural talent for combat. I also spent points on enhancing my observation and physical abilities. However, I refrained from summoning any Akatsuki members, saving that powerful card for when I would start building my own crew. For now, my goal was to grow stronger quietly, without drawing too much attention.

Present Day

Today was just like any other day. The sun was high, and the forest was alive with the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves. Ace, with his usual reckless grin, was practicing his moves, swinging a wooden stick like a sword. I watched him from a distance, noting his fluid movements and intense focus. He was getting stronger every day, and I couldn't help but feel a swell of pride for my brother.

As I approached Ace, he noticed me and flashed a cocky grin. "Hey, Spade! Wanna spar? Or are you too scared to lose?"

I chuckled, shaking my head. Ace had always been competitive, never backing down from a challenge. "Sure, but don't cry if I beat you," I teased, picking up a stick of my own. We squared off, the tension between us electric. This was a common occurrence—our way of bonding and pushing each other to get better.

The sparring match began with Ace charging at me, swinging his stick with surprising speed. I blocked it easily, countering with a quick jab. Ace dodged, a playful glint in his eyes. We danced around each other, trading blows and taunts. It was exhilarating, the thrill of the fight mixed with the joy of being with my brother.

Suddenly, Ace launched a particularly fierce attack, and I decided to test something new. I focused, and for a split second, I felt a surge of power from the system. My body moved with a speed and precision I hadn't had before. I sidestepped Ace's attack, sweeping his legs from under him in one swift motion.

Ace hit the ground with a thud, gasping for air. I stood over him, panting slightly, a satisfied smile on my face. "Gotcha," I said, offering him a hand. Ace glared at me for a moment before breaking into a grin and grabbing my hand.

"You're getting faster," he admitted, pulling himself up. "But don't think you've won. I'll beat you next time."

I laughed, patting him on the back. "Looking forward to it, little brother."

As we made our way back to the hideout, I couldn't shake the feeling of something big on the horizon. The training, the system, everything was leading up to something. It was only a matter of time before we encountered Sabo, the third brother who would complete our trio, or perhaps the next big event that would push us further along our paths.

That evening, as the sun set and the campfire crackled, I sat with Ace and Dadan. The fire's warmth was comforting, and for a moment, everything felt perfect. But deep down, I knew this peace wouldn't last forever. The world of One Piece was vast and dangerous, filled with powerful enemies and countless challenges. But with the system and the bonds I had with my brother, I felt ready for whatever came next.

Looking at the stars, I felt a sense of determination welling up inside me. My new life as Gol D. Spade was just beginning, and I was ready to carve out a legacy that would be remembered across the seas. The future was uncertain, but one thing was clear: Ace and I would face it together, side by side.

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