Chapter 9: The Island of My Rebirth

The ship rocked gently on the waves as it cut through the vast ocean. The skies were clear, and the scent of salt filled the air. I had spent days hiding in the cargo hold, moving only when absolutely necessary.

Each night, I would steal small portions of food—just enough to keep my strength up. I stayed out of sight, listening to the sailors' conversations, learning their schedule, and preparing for my escape.

I was close now.

Through the cracks in the wooden walls, I had seen it—an island looming in the distance, covered in dense forests and jagged cliffs. A wild, uninhabited land, untouched by civilization.

This was my chance.

My chance to disappear from the world.

My chance to begin my journey to power.

The Escape Plan

I couldn't just jump into the sea randomly. If the crew spotted me, they'd turn back and drag me back onto the ship.

I had to wait for the right moment—when they were busy, when the ship was closest to the island.

And then, I would vanish into the wild.

That moment came at dusk.

The sailors were preparing for the night, adjusting the sails, laughing and drinking as they relaxed after a long day.

The ship had slowed down, sailing near the island's coastline to adjust its course.

I took a deep breath. This was it.

I grabbed onto the edge of the ship, carefully climbing over the side, my fingers gripping the wood tightly. The sea below looked endless, but the island was close—if I timed this right, I could make it.

I took a deep breath, steadying myself.

Then—I jumped.

Breaking Free

The cold shock of the ocean hit me like a slap.

I forced myself to stay calm, kicking my legs steadily as I swam toward the shore. I kept my head low, careful not to create any loud splashes that would alert the crew.

The ship drifted farther away.

No one was shouting. No one had seen me.

I kept swimming. The waves pushed against me, but I was determined.

Stroke after stroke, my arms burned with exhaustion, my lungs aching for air. But I refused to stop.

I would reach that island.

I would survive.

I would grow strong.

After what felt like an eternity, my feet touched solid ground.

The moment I reached the shore, I collapsed, gasping for air, my body trembling from exhaustion.

But I had done it.

I had escaped.

I had reached my island.

Observing the Land

As I lay on the sandy shore, my eyes flickered open, taking in my surroundings.

The island was dense with trees, the thick forest stretching far beyond what I could see.

Jagged cliffs loomed in the distance, rising like massive sentinels guarding the land.

I could hear the sounds of wild animals—roars, screeches, the rustling of unseen creatures moving through the undergrowth.

This place was alive.

And dangerous.

But it was perfect.

Why This Was the Perfect Place

No One Knew I Was Here

Kaido's forces wouldn't find me.I could train without fear of being hunted.

The Wild Beasts Would Be My First Opponents

If I could survive here, I would get stronger every day.Fighting wild creatures would help me sharpen my instincts.

I Could Train in Solitude

Away from distractions. Away from people.Just me and my growth.

This was where I would begin my journey to power.

I clenched my fists.

This island would be my training ground.

For two years, I would push my body to its limits.

I would learn to control my Conqueror's Haki.

I would strengthen my physique until I became unbreakable.

And when I left this island, I wouldn't be a scared boy running from fate.

I would be a warrior ready to reclaim Wano.

Finding Shelter

The first thing I needed to do was find a place to stay.

The beach was too exposed. If I stayed here, I'd be vulnerable to storms and wild animals.The cliffs were dangerous, but they might have caves. A cave would be the best option—it would provide shelter and a safe place to rest.

I pushed myself up, my legs still weak from the swim.

I had no weapons. No food. No supplies.

Just my will to survive.

And that would have to be enough.

I took one last look at the ocean—the world I had left behind.

Then, without hesitation, I turned and walked into the wild.