chapter 5

"It's so calm," Rhodes remarked, leaning against the ship's railing. His eyes followed the seagulls gliding across the sky in the distance, and he exhaled slowly.

Sailing on the open sea could be monotonous. Endless waves stretched in every direction, broken only occasionally by the sight of birds or distant ships. Perhaps that was why pirates in this world were so fond of holding lively banquets.

"I've been avoiding other ships to stay out of trouble," Nailu said, studying the sea chart spread out before him. "We're almost at Mignon Island."

He glanced up, his excitement apparent. "I'm really looking forward to the Grand Line. They say the weather there is insane. One moment it's sunny, and the next, there are giant waves or hailstones the size of boulders."

Rhodes laughed, slapping Nailu on the shoulder. "Hahaha, we'll see it soon enough!"

The Grand Line intrigued him just as much. Unpredictable weather, uncharted islands, exotic foods—it all fueled his adventurous spirit.

"You're heading to the Grand Line?"

Nia's voice cut in from across the deck. She sat with a fishing rod in hand, her line lazily drifting in the water.

"Of course," Rhodes replied. "Anyone who sails the seas dreams of that route. Gorgeous scenery, delicious food, golden castles, flying islands, underwater realms… What's not to want?"

"Planning to become a pirate, then?"

Rhodes smirked. "Why? Are you regretting inviting two future pirates onboard?"

Nia shrugged. "Doesn't matter to me. I'm past the age where I see the world in black and white. There are pirates with a moral code and navies full of corrupt scum. As long as you don't get in my way, it doesn't concern me what you are."

Rhodes chuckled. "So, if someone crosses you, it doesn't matter whether they're a pirate or a navy officer, huh?"

Nia didn't respond, merely reeling in her fishing line. After ten minutes without a single catch, she stood up. "Fishing's boring. I'll check the kitchen for something to eat."

As she walked away, Rhodes called after her. "You should join our crew."

Nia glanced back, raising an eyebrow. "Idiot, you're on my ship right now."

She waved dismissively and disappeared below deck.

---

In the kitchen, Nia absentmindedly chewed on some dried fish, her thoughts wandering. She was a natural adventurer, having spent years exploring the North Blue. But the sights and stories here had grown stale—monotonous pirate raids, greedy naval officers, and ignorant villagers.

The Grand Line… It promised something new.

Her black cat ears twitched slightly, her yellow eyes narrowing with excitement as a small smile crept across her face. Different fish, different challenges, and a world far beyond what she knew awaited.

---

Back on deck, Gray appeared, clutching a notebook stuffed with ideas and diagrams. "Are you really serious about becoming pirates? I don't get the appeal. It sounds dull—drifting aimlessly across the sea, staring at waves all day. No stability, no proper lab for research. It's maddening!"

Gray stuffed the notebook into his arms and sighed. "Just these two days at sea have exhausted me. But I've recorded plenty of important data and even came up with some exciting ideas. I can't wait to reach Mignon Island and start working.

"Oh, and I had no idea how much currents and sea breezes affect navigation! I've been making adjustments to my ship designs. My next one will be foolproof—"

"Have you considered that no amount of theory can replace real-world testing?" Rhodes interrupted.

Gray froze, caught off guard.

"You've said yourself that you've barely been to sea. If you build a ship based only on research and documents, it could sink the moment it hits rough waters."

Gray frowned, flipping through his notebook. The data he had collected over the past two days contradicted much of what he had previously assumed. Without another word, he retreated to his cabin, deep in thought.

Watching him go, Nailu smirked. "Do you think he'll join us?"

"I hope so," Nailu added, patting the gun Gray had given him. "He's a genius. This weapon is flawless. If we're going to the Grand Line, having someone like him onboard would be invaluable."

Rhodes nodded. "He'll come around. I'm sure of it."

They turned their attention back to the horizon, where a small island was coming into view.

"Mignon Island," Rhodes said. "Let's see what the Felker family has planned."

---

The ship docked at a quiet pier, where a row of men in black suits waited.

"I presume you are Mr. Gray?" the leader asked, stepping forward with a polite bow. "I am Felker Jason. Thank you for escorting him. Please, follow me to the manor. We've prepared a grand dinner in Mr. Gray's honor, and your reward will be delivered afterward."

Nia frowned slightly. Typically, escort missions ended with the client's delivery. Yet the Felker family seemed intent on involving them further.

Still, she couldn't deny her curiosity.

As they followed the Felker men toward the carriage, another ship approached Mignon Island from the opposite side, its purpose unknown.