Chapter 4: Birthday Wishes - Destiney's Bite

[Note:

" * " : Indicates abilities that can be upgraded with practice, experience, or unique opportunities.]

> System inner voice ["speaking"] <

> Ash inner speech "speaking" <

It had been a few days since the last eventful moments Ash shared with Uta and Lucy. With Shanks declaring today a day off from training, Ash decided to enjoy the morning in a relaxed manner. Normally, he would have joined his friends for another intense session, but even warriors needed their breaks.

The gentle hum of the village greeted him as he made his way to Makino's Party Bar, a familiar warmth filling the air. Uta was by his side, humming a light tune, her spirits as lively as ever.

As they stepped into the bar, Makino, ever the gracious hostess, greeted them with her kind smile. "Good morning, Ash, Uta. The usual?" she asked, already moving to prepare their regular orders.

"Morning, Makino-san!" Ash said cheerfully, finding his favorite seat. Uta waved at her, her expression beaming as she chimed, "Yes, please!"

Moments later, Makino brought out their usual meals, her expert hands making the plates look more appealing than ever. Ash and Uta eagerly prepared to dig in.

Ash and Uta savored their breakfast, enjoying the calm atmosphere of the bar. Between bites, Makino approached their table with a curious smile.

"So, have you two prepared anything special for tomorrow?" she asked casually, leaning slightly on the counter.

Ash and Uta exchanged confused looks before turning back to her simultaneously. "Why? What's tomorrow?" Ash asked, raising an eyebrow.

Makino chuckled softly. "Tomorrow's Lucy's birthday, May 5th. Didn't she tell you?"

Both froze mid-bite, their eyes widening in surprise. "It's Lucy's birthday?" Uta exclaimed, nearly dropping her fork.

Ash blinked before recovering and nodded firmly. "We have to do something then. By the end of today, we'll make sure she has the best birthday." Uta nodded in agreement, her excitement building. "What do we do, though? A gift? A celebration?"

Ash's lips curved into a thoughtful smile. "I have an idea. Makino-san, could you come closer?" he whispered, gesturing for both women to lean in.

Makino obliged, curious, while Uta leaned in eagerly. Ash lowered his voice and began explaining. "First, Makino, can you tell me who usually shows up at Lucy's birthday? Not just to wish her, but to celebrate with her."

Makino tilted her head. "Why do you need to know that?"

"Because," Ash said with a grin, "we'll throw her a surprise party. The whole day, we'll act like it's just a normal day, and no one will mention her birthday. But in the evening, we'll gather everyone she loves here at the bar for the celebration. When it's time, Uta and I will bring her here with her eyes covered for the big surprise."

Makino's face lit up with understanding. "Oh, I see! That sounds wonderful. I'll take care of the food and bake her a cake. Lucy's always loved strawberry shortcake."

"Perfect!" Uta clapped her hands together excitedly. "We'll make sure she doesn't suspect a thing."

Ash turned to her. "And after breakfast, we'll head out to get her a gift. Something she'll really love."

Makino chuckled softly. "I think Lucy will be over the moon. Let's do this."

With the plan set, the trio shared a look of determination before diving back into their tasks. Ash and Uta, now focused, finished their breakfast quickly, eager to find the perfect gift for their cherished friend.

Ash and Uta strolled through the bustling streets of Foosha/Windmill Village, scanning shops and stalls for the perfect gifts. The sun climbed higher, bathing the village in a warm glow, as the duo carefully examined each item, wanting something meaningful for Lucy.

At one shop, Uta's eyes lit up as she spotted a beautifully crafted music box. When she turned the key, a delicate melody began to play, enchanting both her and Ash. "This is it," Uta said with a soft smile, already imagining Lucy's delight. She quickly purchased it, her excitement palpable.

Meanwhile, Ash's attention was drawn to a small carpenter's workshop tucked into the corner of the marketplace. Inside, he found a glass bottle containing a wooden miniature ship, intricately detailed with sails and masts. The craftsmanship impressed him, and he couldn't help but think how much Lucy would love it, given her dreams of sailing the seas. He bought it, satisfied with his choice.

As the day wore on, the two continued chatting and laughing, the anticipation of the surprise fueling their energy. By the time they wrapped up their shopping, the sun was dipping toward the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.

Carrying their gifts, Ash and Uta made their way back to the Red Force. Their hearts were light, their minds filled with thoughts of Lucy's surprise and the joy it would bring her.

Ash and Uta, upon returning to the Red Force, gathered Shanks and the crew to explain the surprise plan for Lucy's birthday. The pirates grinned at the idea, eager to participate in the mischief and celebration. Shanks nodded approvingly, already imagining Lucy's reaction.

{}

The next morning, Lucy bounced around the village, her usual excitement radiating as she greeted everyone she knew. However, as she waited for someone to acknowledge her birthday, she was met with indifferent responses. Nobody mentioned her special day. Her smile wavered slightly, a flicker of disappointment crossing her face.

Surely, Makino wouldn't forget, she thought, and hurried to her bar. But even there, Makino acted as if it were just another day, handing her a glass of juice and going about her work without a word.

From the shadows of the bar, Ash, Uta, Shanks, and the crew stifled their laughter, watching Lucy's deflated expression. Ash leaned forward, feigning concern. "What's wrong, Lucy?" he asked.

Lucy only pouted, her cheeks puffing up. "Nothing!" she huffed before running off toward the shore, her small figure heading toward her favorite thinking spot—on the edge of a small hill overlooking the sea.

As evening approached, the entire village and crew worked together to prepare the surprise party. Decorations were hung, food was arranged, and a beautiful cake, crafted by Makino, took center stage.

Meanwhile, Ash and Uta went in search of Lucy. They found her sitting at the hill's edge, staring at the waves with her knees hugged to her chest. Gently, they approached her, Ash breaking the silence with a soft, "Hey, Lucy."

She turned, a faint frown on her lips. "What do you want?"

"Come with us," Uta said, her voice bright.

Lucy hesitated but allowed them to guide her. Ash tied a cloth over her eyes, much to her confusion. "What's going on?" she asked.

"Just trust us," Ash replied with a teasing grin. "You'll see soon enough."

The walk to Makino's bar was filled with Lucy's curious questions, but Ash and Uta only chuckled, dodging her inquiries. As they entered the bar, Lucy hesitated when she felt the atmosphere shift. Ash untied the cloth around her eyes.

Everything was dark.

The room suddenly lit up, revealing decorations of colorful streamers, balloons, and a beautifully set table with a cake at its center. A loud cheer erupted as everyone shouted, "Happy Birthday, Lucy!"

Lucy's eyes widened in surprise. Her earlier sadness melted away as she jumped with joy, realization dawning on her. "This is… for me?" she asked, her voice trembling with happiness.

Makino walked over, a warm smile on her face. "It's all thanks to Ash," she said, motioning toward him.

Lucy turned to Ash, her cheeks puffing in an adorable glare. "You kept this a secret from me?" she said, half-pouting.

Ash raised his hands defensively. "Sorry, sorry! But… it was worth it, right?"

Lucy giggled and nodded before Makino handed her a knife. "Go on, Lucy, cut your cake."

With everyone clapping and cheering, Lucy carefully sliced the first piece of the cake, her smile brighter than ever. After tasting the first bite, she declared, "It's delicious!" bringing more cheers from the crowd.

One by one, the guests came forward with their gifts. When it was Uta's turn, she handed Lucy a beautifully wrapped box. Inside was a delicate music box, its melody enchanting as Lucy opened it.

"Wow, Uta! This is amazing!" Lucy exclaimed before hugging her tightly.

Ash stepped forward next, presenting a glass bottle with a miniature ship crafted inside. "I thought this might suit an aspiring pirate," he said with a grin.

Lucy's eyes sparkled as she accepted the gift. "Thank you, Ash!" she said before wrapping him in a big hug, pulling Uta into it as well.

The party was in full swing, with laughter and joy filling the room. Shanks and his crew joined in with their antics, entertaining everyone with their boisterous energy. Makino made sure everyone had plenty to eat, while Ash, Uta, and Lucy laughed and danced among the guests.

As the night came to an end, Lucy stood in the center, looking at everyone who had come together for her special day. "Thank you, everyone!" she said, her voice full of gratitude. She pulled Ash, Uta, and Makino into another hug. "This is the best birthday ever!"

Slowly, the guests began to leave, returning to their homes. Ash, Uta, and Lucy lingered for a moment, savoring the warmth of the day before heading off to rest, the memory of the celebration etched into their hearts.

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Training in the Two-Month Period:

The two-month training period was marked by intense preparation, growth, and bonding. Ash, Lucy, and Uta had decided to train together, knowing that the challenges they would face in the future would require them to be stronger, more resilient, and united. Despite their differing backgrounds and abilities, each of them pushed the others to grow, sometimes in surprising ways.

Ash's Training:

Ash was driven by his unique situation—his past life as a reincarnated individual meant that every decision he made, every skill he learned, was critical. He had a quiet determination, choosing to work on his strengths while also addressing his weaknesses.

For the first month, Ash focused primarily on physical training. Under the guidance of Shanks and his main crew, he began to refine his hand-to-hand combat skills, incorporating his agility and speed into his style. His early days were spent learning the basics of boxing, footwork, and distance control. Every punch, every block was calculated, aimed to make his movements as efficient as possible.

At the same time, he worked on his swordsmanship, practicing with a basic blade he had obtained, steadily improving his form with shanks. His marksmanship also improved, using his sharp senses and tactical thinking to hone his aim with Yasopp. He also started to develop a more strategic approach to battle, focusing on how to read his opponent's movements and the terrain Benn.

During these early days of training, he also spent time with Makino & Lucky Roo, learning how to better manage his cooking skills. Cooking was, after all, a useful ability on long voyages. He trained in the kitchen daily, experimenting with new dishes and perfecting the ones he already knew.

Also, some medical knowledge but not enough to gain skill but enough to know some things. Though it wasn't as glamorous as combat training, Ash knew that cooking & medical knowledge would be vital for long-term survival on the open seas.

By the second month, Ash had worked relentlessly, refining his skills with precision. His physical stats—strength, agility, and endurance along with other stats—had noticeably increased. His swordsmanship had moved beyond the beginner level, and his hand-to-hand combat had become more fluid, incorporating his agility and tactical thinking.

He also gained some new skills from the rest of the crew.

Most notably, his Calm Mind ability had helped in developing, allowing him to keep his composure even in stressful situations, a critical aspect when working under pressure in a fight or during his strategic planning.

He also got some sub-quest like helping around the village doing some work/help thereby levelling up and getting rewards like lottery tickets, coins and some Baileys.

His relationship with Uta and Lucy also strengthened through their shared experiences, and Ash's leadership abilities, too, began to shine through, even if quietly.

Name: Rafael D. Ash

Age: 9

Level: 5 -> 8

Experience: 900/4000

Title: Reincarnator

Stats:

Strength: 26 -> 34

Agility: 26 -> 33

Endurance: 23 -> 31

Intelligence: 17 -> 26

Charisma: 22 -> 28

Luck: 12 -> 16

Unallocated Points: 30

Inventory: Basic First Aid Kit x 5 ; Sea King's Blood Tonic x 1 ; Ship Enhancement Core: Time Dilation Room x 1

Store Coins: 250 -> 3680 coins

Lottery Ticket: 1 -> 4

Currency: 23,580 Beli

Equipment: Solu Bind Bracelet

Abilities:

[Active Abilities]

=> Basic Marksmanship (Rare; Novice) * -> (Rare; Intermediate) *

=> Tactical Thinking (Rare; Novice) * -> (Rare; Intermediate) *

=> Hand-to-Hand Combat Basics (Rare; Novice) * -> (Rare; Beginner) *

=> Seamanship Fundamentals (Common; Novice) -> (Common; Beginner)

=> Leadership (Rare; Novice)

=> Strategic Intelligence (Rare; Novice)

=> Stealth (Uncommon; Novice)

=> Fishing (Common; Novice) -> (Common; Beginner)

=> Cooking (Common; Novice) -> (Common; Beginner)

=> Basic Swordsmanship (Rare; Beginner) * -> (Rare; Intermediate) *

=> Observe (Uncommon; Beginner) *

=> Fleet Coordination (Rare; Novice)

[Passive Abilities]

-> Calm Mind (Rare) * ; Perfect Recollection (Rare) * ; Voice Resonance (Rare; Unique) * ; Inspiration (Rare; Novice) ; Survival Skills (Common; Novice)

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Lucy's Training Journey:

Lucy's training over the past two months had been nothing short of transformative. Her journey from someone who struggled to prove herself to a capable fighter and leader was marked by a combination of intense physical conditioning, emotional growth, and self-discovery. The time spent training with Ash had not only improved her combat abilities but also helped in developing her strength.

Phase 1: Developing Her Physical Abilities

Lucy's first step in her training was to push her limits. Ash, ever the disciplined trainer, focused on making sure that Lucy's body could withstand longer and more grueling training sessions. She adapted to longer sparring matches and tougher conditions.

This physical toughness made her more resilient in battle, giving her the ability to take hits that would have otherwise incapacitated her.

In addition, Ash also helped Lucy hone her speed and reflexes. Although she had never been the fastest fighter, she learned how to move more fluidly, adjusting her body's position with greater precision. Her agility improved as she trained with Ash in hand-to-hand combat, focusing on dodging and closing distances more effectively pushing her.

Phase 2: Refining Combat Techniques

Ash's next goal was to refine Lucy's hand-to-hand combat skills. Lucy had already started with basic techniques, but now she needed to build on that foundation. Over the past two months, Lucy's Hand-to-Hand Combat Basics skill progressed next level. This increase was the result of intense sparring sessions and one-on-one training where Ash focused on improving her technique, power, and timing.

While Lucy wasn't the quickest, her ability to endure pain and keep fighting made her a formidable opponent. Ash emphasized the importance of her Fighting Spirit, and over the course of the training. This not only improved her ability to fight longer but also helped her find strength in the most trying situations, tapping into an emotional well that allowed her to keep going when others would have fallen.

Phase 3: Introducing New Skills

During her training, Lucy began developing new skills that would complement her fighting style. The Unorthodox Movement skill was something that came naturally to her; it was based on her ability to find new ways of moving in battle, using unconventional tactics to gain the upper hand. Lucy's natural instincts began to shine through, allowing her to incorporate evasive maneuvers that caught her sparring partners off guard.

Another key area of growth was her Combat Reflexes. Training under Ash, Lucy learned to react more swiftly during combat, improving her ability to anticipate moves and respond before her opponent could strike. Her Combat Reflexes skill was still in its infancy, but it steadily improved during the training. This increased her ability to evade attacks and move fluidly in response to her opponents.

Finally, Lucy expanded her knowledge of grappling techniques. Ash had always emphasized the importance of being versatile in combat, and Basic Grappling Techniques was an area Lucy needed to improve. With hands-on instruction, Lucy learned how to apply holds, counters, and throws, using her increased strength and endurance to her advantage. Through practice, she showed steady growth.

While Lucy's physical training progressed rapidly, her will to prove was what truly set her apart. Every time she felt frustrated or challenged, she learned how to channel that energy into her combat.

By the end of her training, Lucy had made massive strides in her skills. She was forging her own path, and the training was just the beginning of her journey toward becoming a true powerhouse.

Her growth was not just in stats or skills but in her confidence, her self-belief, and the bond she had with her comrades. She was ready for whatever challenges the future would throw her way.

Name: Monkey D. Lucy

Age: 7

Level: 4 -> 7

Title: Chosen Vessel of the Sun's Flame

Status Effects: None

Stats:

Strength: 22 -> 30

Agility: 24 -> 29

Endurance: 26 -> 34

Intelligence: 15

Charisma: 20 -> 24

Luck: 7 -> 9

Skills/Abilities:

- "D" Willpower: [Passive](Locked)

- Fighting Spirit: Level 2 (Rare; Novice) -> Level 12 (Rare; Beginner) *

- Hand-to-Hand Combat Basics: Level 1 (Rare; Novice) -> Level 14 (Rare; Beginner) *

- Unorthodox Movement: Level 1 (Uncommon; Novice) *

- Combat Reflexes: Level 1 (Uncommon; Novice) *

- Basic Grappling Techniques: Level 1 (Common; Novice) *

Affiliation: None (Pirate Aspirant)

Equipment: Soul Bind Bracelet

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Uta's Training Journey:

The past two months were transformative for Uta as she balanced training her Devil Fruit abilities under Shanks' watchful eye with rigorous physical and skill-based practice alongside Ash and Lucy. Uta carried the hidden weight of the Tot Musica curse, a lingering shadow from the Elegia incident. Though she kept this secret, Shanks' presence offered her a safety net, ensuring she could push her limits without fear of losing control.

Phase 1: Refining Her Devil Fruit Powers with Shanks

Uta approached Shanks one quiet afternoon on the deck of the Red Force. With a serious expression, she stood before him, clutching the brim of her hat nervously.

"Shanks," she began, her voice steady but tinged with hesitation. "Will you help me train my Devil Fruit powers?"

Shanks looked at her with a curious tilt of his head. "Why the sudden request? I thought you were already working on your physical training with Ash and Lucy."

Uta glanced away, her fingers tightening their grip. "I am," she admitted, "but... I don't want to burden anyone. If I can master my powers, then maybe—maybe I can avoid causing trouble for others in the future." Her cheeks flushed as she thought of Ash, though she didn't dare say his name aloud.

Shanks studied her for a long moment, his piercing gaze softening as he saw the determination in her eyes. He rested a hand on her shoulder and gave her a small smile. "You've got guts, Uta. If you're serious about this, then I'll help. But remember, strength isn't just about power—it's about knowing when and how to use it."

Her face lit up with relief and gratitude. "Thank you, Shanks. I won't let you down."

With that, they began their practice. Shanks ensured each session was carefully structured to push Uta's limits while keeping the Tot Musica curse in check. His steady guidance allowed Uta to refine her abilities safely, gradually increasing her control and confidence.

Shanks took a hands-on approach to supervising Uta's training with her Uta Uta no Mi. The curse of Tot Musica was a grave concern, and Shanks, knowing its destructive potential. These sessions focused on safely enhancing her core abilities:

> Harmonic Resonance: Under Shanks' guidance, Uta experimented with controlling the range and intensity of her songs. She learned to adjust the resonance to suit different scenarios, such as amplifying the effect on multiple targets or focusing it on a single individual. Through repetition and Shanks' feedback, this skill grew.

> Melodic Manipulation: This ability, which allowed Uta to influence emotions and actions, required precision. Shanks encouraged her to practice subtlety, emphasizing the importance of intent. He often acted as a test subject, playfully resisting her attempts to sway him, forcing Uta to refine her technique.

> Dream World Creation and Emotional Resonance: These late-stage abilities demanded a deep connection with her Devil Fruit's power. Shanks encouraged Uta to create small, stable dreamscapes, testing their durability and her ability to control the emotions within them. The process was emotionally taxing, but Shanks' presence provided reassurance, allowing her to push through her fears.

Though the training was often intense, Shanks never let it overwhelm her. His light-hearted demeanor and occasional jokes helped Uta stay grounded, even when the weight of her curse loomed heavily.

Phase 2: Physical Training with Ash and Lucy

When not practicing her Devil Fruit abilities, Uta joined Ash and Lucy for physical training. Under Ash's guidance, Uta worked to improve her combat skills and physical resilience:

> Hand-to-Hand Combat Basics: Though initially hesitant, Uta quickly took to the fundamentals of close-quarters combat. Sparring with Ash and Lucy honed her reflexes, while Ash's patient coaching helped her master techniques step by step.

> Agile Acrobatics: Uta's natural agility became the foundation for this new skill. Whether it was dodging Ash's strikes or flipping out of Lucy's grappling attempts, Uta's movements grew more fluid and precise.

> Echoed Strike: This unique ability emerged during sparring sessions when Uta instinctively combined her voice with her strikes. The sonic force added an extra layer of impact, surprising both Ash and Lucy. Though still she got it through her devil fruit she covered it saying she don't know how she done it.

> Resilient Will: Despite the challenges posed by her curse, Uta's determination never wavered. Her ability to push through emotional and physical struggles became a defining trait.

Phase 3: Building Emotional Resilience (with Shanks, Ash and Uta)

Uta's efforts to master her Devil Fruit powers led her to seek Shanks' guidance.

Under his supervision, Uta practiced controlling her melodies, particularly when the dark influence of Tot Musica surfaced. Shanks' steady presence and quick intervention during those moments gave her confidence to push forward. Meanwhile, Ash and Lucy unknowingly contributed by helping Uta build physical and emotional strength through teamwork, unaware of her deeper struggles.

Through these combined efforts, Uta grew stronger, mastering Resilient Will, a testament to her perseverance and the unspoken support of those around her.

Phase 4: Bonds and Growth

By the end of the two months, Uta had made significant progress. Her Devil Fruit abilities were more controlled and versatile, her combat skills had improved remarkably, and her resilience had become a source of strength. Training alongside Ash and Lucy deepened her bond with them, and Shanks' guidance instilled a sense of confidence that allowed her to face the challenges ahead.

Though the shadow of Tot Musica remained a constant undercurrent, Uta resolved to continue growing, trusting in her friends and her own determination to overcome any obstacles in her path.

Name: Uta

Age: 9

Level: 3 -> 6

Title: Songstress of the Grand Melody, The Cursed Harmony of Tot Musica

Status Effects: Cursed (Tot Musica)

Stats:

Strength: 12 -> 20

Agility: 14 -> 22

Endurance: 13 -> 18

Intelligence: 18 -> 19

Charisma: 19 -> 21

Luck: 15 -> 16

Skills/Abilities:

- Harmonic Resonance: Level 2 (Common; Novice) * -> Level 31 (Common; Intermediate)*

- Melodic Manipulation: Level 2 (Rare; Novice) * -> Level 19 (Rare; Beginner) *

- Songstress's Will: Level 2 (Common; Novice) * -> Level 21 (Rare; Beginner) *

- Dream World Creation: Level 2 -> Level 4 (Late Stage; Devil Fruit Ability) *

- Emotional Resonance: Level 2 -> Level 4 (Late Stage; Devil Fruit Ability) *

- Hand-to-Hand Combat Basics: Level 1 (Rare; Novice) * -> Level 11 (Rare; Beginner) *

- Agile Acrobatics: Level 1 (Uncommon; Novice) *

- Echoed Strike: Level 1 (Late Stage; Devil Fruit Ability) *

- Resilient Will: Level 1 (Uncommon; Novice) *

Devil Fruit: Uta Uta no Mi (Sing-Sing Fruit) – Late Stage

Affiliation: Red-Haired Pirates (Shanks' Crew) – Diva

Equipment: Soul Bind Bracelet

[Note: Uta's Devil Fruit skills are relatively underdeveloped because of Tot Musica's curse, which has limited her growth and training until now. Despite these setbacks, her determination and recent efforts are helping her gradually overcome these challenges and unlock her potential.]

...

Destiny's Bite:

The morning sun was already high in the sky when Ash leisurely made his way toward Makino's bar, later than usual. As he walked through the familiar streets, his mind wandered, reflecting on the remarkable progress he, Uta, and Lucy had made over the past two months. They were stronger, faster, and more capable than ever—a bond forged through relentless training and mutual growth.

Reaching the bar, Ash pushed the door open, the faint sound of conversation drifting out. As he stepped inside, a loud, familiar voice cut through the air.

"You don't get it, Lucy!" Shanks exclaimed; frustration etched in his tone. "That thing you ate is not a normal fruit—it's a Devil Fruit! You won't ever be able to swim again!"

Ash froze in the doorway, his eyes widening in shock at the revelation. The weight of Shanks' words hung heavily in the room, setting the stage for what would undoubtedly be a turning point.

to be continued...

Hey everyone! I'm always looking for ways to make this story even better, and I'd love to hear your ideas. What powers do you think should be available in Ash's store? Maybe you have some cool concepts for abilities, weapons, or items that could make the adventure even more exciting!

Feel free to drop your suggestions in the comments, and if there's anything specific, you'd love to see in future chapters, let me know! I might even integrate your ideas into the story.

Also, don't forget to give some Power Stones if you're enjoying the journey! Your support means the world. 😊