Chapter 6: Training and Departure

As the night settled over Shells Town, Xander made his way to the small room he had rented above Mari's tavern. The flickering light of the candle cast shadows across the walls as he sat on the edge of the bed, mentally preparing for what lay ahead. His body was growing stronger, and his Haki abilities were slowly improving. He knew the path ahead would not be easy, but the mission he had received was clear.

[Ding! New mission: Train yourself for 2years. Reward: Conqueror Haki seed and Swordsmanship skill.]

Xander couldn't help but smile at the system's message. The reward was tempting, and the thought of gaining Conqueror's Haki excited him. But there was something more pressing to take care of before he could embark on his training.

He needed to deal with Captain Morgan. Morgan's oppressive rule over Shells Town was a thorn in Xander's side, and while he was eager to get stronger, he couldn't leave without addressing the situation. He had to disrupt Mari's work and prepare to ask her to join his crew. She had shown kindness to him, and in his growing affection for her, he knew it was time to take the next step.

The next day, Xander woke early, determined to complete his mission before leaving for to train. He spent the morning working at Mari's tavern, helping her with various tasks as usual. He tried to keep his thoughts focused, but his mind kept wandering to the inevitable conversation he would have with her later.

In the afternoon, as the sun hung low in the sky, Xander found Mari behind the counter, wiping down mugs. He hesitated for a moment before walking up to her.

"Mari, I need to talk to you," Xander began, his voice steady but with a hint of uncertainty.

Mari looked up, concern flashing in her eyes. "Is it about Captain Morgan?" she asked, her tone soft. She clearly feared he was about to leave because of the trouble Morgan had caused them both.

Xander shook his head. "No, it's not because of him. It's something I have to do, something important for my journey."

Mari's expression faltered, a hint of disappointment crossing her face. Xander's heart sank as he saw her reaction. He had hoped that she would understand, but it seemed she was hurt by his words.

Without thinking, Xander stepped forward and pulled her into a tight embrace. Mari froze in surprise, but then slowly melted into his arms. Her soft breath tickled his chest as she sighed deeply.

"I'm not leaving you behind, Mari," Xander whispered into her ear. "When I come back, I want you to join my crew… as the cook. I need someone like you with me."

Mari pulled back slightly to look at him, her eyes wide with surprise. "You want me to join your crew?"

Xander nodded, his heart racing. "I do. When I come back, we'll set sail together."

Before she could respond, Xander leaned down and kissed her gently on the lips. It was a soft kiss, full of promise, and Mari's body seemed to relax in his arms as she kissed him back.

As soon as the kiss broke, the system's voice rang in his ears.

[Ding! Congratulations for the host kissing Mari passionately for the first time. +30 HP. Congratulations for the host hugging a girl for the first time. +20 HP. Mari's affection for the host has increased by +20]

Xander stood there for a moment, stunned by the system's sudden announcement. He had expected some reaction from the system, but not this much. Mari's affection for him had increased significantly, and he could feel it in the warmth of her touch as she slowly pulled away.

"I'll be here, waiting for you," Mari whispered, a soft smile on her face. "Be safe, Xander."

He nodded and gave her one last look before turning to leave. He had one final task to complete before he could begin his training.

Over the past few days, Xander had been practicing his Haki in secret. His Observation Haki had grown to the point where he could sense danger within a 30-meter radius, though it wasn't perfect yet. His Armament Haki was still in its infancy, but he had managed to harden his skin to a degree, which would help in battle.

Xander left the tavern and made his way toward Captain Morgan's fortress. He had prepared himself for this moment, but he knew it would be a challenge. As he walked, his mind focused on the mission ahead—two years of intense training , followed by his eventual return to Shells Town.

But first, he had to take down Morgan.

Status:]

Name: Xander

Age: 18

Strength: 20

Agility: 19

Charm: 18

Haki: Basic Observation Haki lvl: 1 , Basic Armament Haki lvl :1

Devil Fruit: None