Chapter 32: Oden resolve

After the discovery of Laugh Tale and the disbandment of the Roger Pirates, Kozuki Oden returned to Wano, eager to reunite with his family. But that joy was overshadowed by the grim news his father, Kozuki Sukiyaki, shared about the betrayal that had shaken the country. Orochi had poisoned him, kidnapped him, and used a Devil Fruit to impersonate him, declaring himself Shogun of Wano. The suffering and chaos Orochi had unleashed across Wano left Oden furious.

However, what truly caught Oden off guard was the unexpected intervention of Kaido. He knowns who Kaido is, a ruthless pirate, but to hear that Kaido had defeated Orochi and save wano sent a wave of confusion through him. Kaido's motive became even more perplexing when Oden learned that Kaido had forced his father to teach him the ancient Kozuki language—an invaluable skill tied to Wano's long-hidden history.

Oden couldn't understand how or why Kaido, a pirate seemingly unconnected to the ancient past, would seek knowledge of the ancient language. How had he even known about its significance? Roger had only come to understand its importance through the "Voice of All Things" and his journey to Lodestar Island. This enigma gnawed at Oden, but he ultimately brushed it aside. Even if Kaido discovered Laugh Tale, it wouldn't matter. The treasure could only be accessed by Joyboy, and Oden knew from his voyage that Joyboy had yet to be born.

But when Oden learned that during Kaido's attack on Shogun castle, his beloved maids—who had cared for him during his childhood—were killed in the battle, a sense of vengeance ignited within him. The weight of his childhood memories and the love he had for those who had looked after him was too much to bear. He resolved to confront Kaido, not for ancient secrets, but for those who took care of him. He would make Kaido answer for the deaths of the innocent.

The fire of revenge burned within him as he prepared to set out once more.

But Oden's mind was made up. He stood tall and resolute. "Father, this will be the last time I leave Wano. Once this matter is settled, I will return and take my rightful place as Shogun. But Kaido must answer for the lives he has taken."

As Oden prepared for his journey, his nine retainers, were immediately by his side. Kin'emon, ever the loyal vassal, stepped forward. "Oden-sama, if you are going to face Kaido, then we must accompany you. We are your retainers. Wherever you go, we follow."

"Yes!" Kanjuro added. "We can't let you go alone, not against someone like Kaido."

Oden glanced at his retainers, each one filled with determination. Though he knew the journey would be perilous, he couldn't deny their resolve. "Very well," Oden said. "But this journey isn't for Wano's future; it's personal. We go to Shirakawa Island to avenge those who Kaido took from us."

Before setting off, Oden went to speak with his wife, Toki. The children were playing outside, and the quiet of the room was heavy as Oden explained his plan.

Toki's heart clenched as she watched her husband prepare to leave once more. Her knowledge of the future haunted her, flashes of what Wano would become without Oden at its helm. "Oden," she said, her voice breaking slightly. "Think of our children. Think of the Wano you'll leave behind if you don't return. There is more at stake here than vengeance."

"I have to do this, Toki," he said, his voice low but firm. "Kaido has wronged Wano and killed those who meant so much to me. I cannot let that stand."

Toki, hearing her husband's words, felt a pang of fear. "Oden, Kaido is no ordinary pirate. The world is already after him. You were part of the Roger Pirates... the Government will come for you too. If you go now, you'll be risking not only your life but our Wano safety."

Oden shook his head, placing a hand on Toki's shoulder. "Toki, I understand your fear, but I cannot let what Kaido did slide. He took lives that were precious to me. And I am a pirate I must give answer to those help me, after this, I will return, and open Wano boders."

Toki's eyes were filled with worry, but she knew Oden's spirit would not be swayed. She sighed deeply. "You're stubborn, Oden. But please, come back to us."

Oden gave a soft smile. "I will. And after I return I must open wano borders "

As the sun began to set over Wano, Oden and his retainers stood ready to depart. The ship was prepared, and Oden looked over the horizon, knowing that this journey would be unlike any other. His mind burned with a singular thought: Kaido must pay. And thus, the journey to Shirakawa Island began.

As dawn broke over Wano, Oden and his nine retainers, now aboard the ship, prepared to set sail. The crew, clad in their traditional attire, stood in solemn silence as the vessel gently rocked against the dock. The sea breeze carried the scent of freedom and adventure, mingling with the salty tang of the ocean.Oden glanced back at the shores of Wano, his heart heavy with the weight of his decision. Yet, a sense of resolve shone in his eyes. His crew, though equally contemplative, shared his determination. The journey ahead would be arduous,but important step. The ship, a sleek and sturdy vessel built for long voyages, began its voyage towards Shirakawa Isle. As it cut through the waves, the crew busied themselves with preparations. The scabbards took turns at the helm, while others secured provisions and ensured the ship's readiness for the trials of the sea.