Chapter 20: Departure from the Cursed Island

The sun had almost set when Luffy, Zoro, and Nami finally returned to their small boat on the island's shore. The sky was painted in hues of orange and purple, while the distant cries of jungle creatures echoed softly behind them. The salty sea breeze mixed with the faint, musty scent of the jungle, reminding them of both the dangers they had faced and the relief of escape. Though the oppressive atmosphere of the island still lingered like a shadow in their minds, the trio felt a renewed sense of power and unity after their triumph below the earth.

Luffy stood at the water's edge, gazing out to the horizon with his straw hat casting a shadow over his eyes. The gentle lapping of the waves against the shore filled his ears, but his focus was inward. He clenched his fist, feeling the surge of shadow energy within him. The dark power was no longer foreign; it felt like a part of him now. He had taken another step forward. He was stronger now, and he knew it. The path to becoming the King of the Pirates was clearer than ever.

"Let's get moving before this place decides to throw another monster at us," Zoro said, his voice steady but edged with fatigue. He slung their remaining supplies over his shoulder and tossed them into the boat. His sharp eyes darted toward the jungle one last time, wary that the island might not let them leave so easily.

Nami adjusted the sail and checked the rudder, her instincts as a navigator taking over. She ran her fingers along the ropes, ensuring the knots were secure. Her heart was still racing from their ordeal beneath the earth, but she masked her anxiety with her usual precision. "I couldn't agree more. This island gives me the creeps. We got what we needed. Time to leave."

As they pushed the boat into the water and climbed aboard, Luffy took one last look at the island. The shadowed jungle seemed to watch them, the trees swaying slightly as if bidding them farewell—or perhaps warning them not to return. The air felt heavier for a moment, but Luffy met the gaze of the darkness without fear. Shade materialized briefly beside Luffy, its black form flickering like a living wisp. It gave a silent nod before dissolving into the fading light, a wordless acknowledgment of their success and the bond they now shared.

The boat drifted out into the open sea, the gentle waves carrying them away from the cursed island. The wind was favorable, and Nami guided them with precision. Her hands moved confidently, but she occasionally glanced back at the island, half-expecting to see another nightmare emerge from the trees.

As the island grew smaller in the distance, Luffy leaned back, his hands behind his head, and grinned. "That was fun." His voice carried his usual carefree spirit, but there was an edge to it—the thrill of battle and the rush of power still fresh in his veins.

Nami shot him a glare, her eyes narrowing. "Fun? We almost died down there!" Her voice was sharp, but there was a hint of relief beneath her frustration. They had survived. That was what mattered.

Zoro chuckled, his low, rough laugh carrying over the waves. "You'll get used to it." He leaned back against the side of the boat, arms crossed, but his hand still rested close to his sword. Old habits died hard.

Luffy laughed along with him, his eyes reflecting both joy and determination. He was eager to test his newfound power, but he knew there was more to come—stronger enemies, greater challenges, and the ever-distant One Piece. The system inside him was quiet now, but he knew it would stir again. His journey was far from over.

The sea stretched endlessly before them, its surface shimmering under the fading light of day. It was vast, unpredictable, and dangerous. But that was what made it beautiful. They had faced death, and they had come out stronger. Together, they would face whatever lay ahead. The shadows had granted Luffy strength, but it was his crew that made him truly unstoppable.

As the last sliver of sun disappeared below the horizon, Luffy looked at his friends—Zoro, calm and resolute; Nami, fierce and determined. He knew that no matter what trials awaited them, they would stand together.

The adventure continued.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

🔥 Hey legends! Quick updates! 🔥

💥 Can't wait for the next chapter? Good news—ALL advance chapters are available on Patreon for just $5! No more waiting, just pure binge-reading goodness! 🚀

👉 patreon.com/cyci07

✨ Power Stone Challenge! ✨

If we hit 100 power stones, I'll drop 2 bonus chapters! Let's see if you guys can make me suffer! 😂

💬 Enjoying the story? Leave a review and let me know your favorite moment so far! It helps the novel grow and reach more readers!

Thanks for all your support—you guys are awesome! ❤️