The journey starts

After bidding farewell to Kaya and spending time with Usopp and the others, Ethel returned to Usopp's house to continue his sword training. The week had flown by, and the ship's construction was nearly complete. During those days, Ethel not only deepened his bond with Usopp but also taught him and his friends some sword techniques. Usopp, in turn, impressed Ethel with his slingshot skills, showcasing exceptional accuracy with every shot.

Ethel also spent time with Kaya, engaging in long conversations about their lives and experiences. Despite her illness, which weakened her, Kaya remained cheerful and looked forward each day to hearing Usopp's stories and occasionally Ethel's as well. Their relationship had grown stronger, and Ethel had come to appreciate her deeply.

On the morning of the seventh day, Ethel decided to visit Kaya's mansion to say goodbye. With a nimble leap, he perched on the branch outside her window. Kaya, upon seeing him, opened the window with a look of surprise and joy.

"Good morning, Kaya," Ethel greeted, leaning casually against the window frame.

Kaya smiled warmly, though her eyes held a hint of sadness.

"It's unusual to see you alone. Where's Usopp?" she asked.

"He's probably patrolling the island. I came to say goodbye because my ship is ready," Ethel replied.

Kaya nodded, her smile persistent, but her gaze revealed a mix of melancholy and gratitude.

"The pleasure has been mine. It's been a delight getting to know you," Kaya said, her voice laced with unspoken emotion.

Before Ethel could respond, a stern voice interrupted their conversation. Kaya's butler, a burly man with a stern expression, suddenly appeared, approaching with firm steps.

"Miss Kaya, I've told you a thousand times not to speak with strangers. Not just that liar, but now this foreigner as well," the butler said, his tone sharp and disapproving.

Ethel was taken aback, having not noticed the butler's approach. The man, who seemed always to appear at the most inconvenient moments, had an attitude that starkly contrasted with Kaya's warmth.

"It seems my visit has caused some misunderstanding," Ethel said with a diplomatic smile. "I didn't mean to cause any trouble. I just came to say goodbye and wish Kaya all the best."

The butler frowned, clearly distrustful, but he made a gesture indicating that Ethel should leave. Kaya, sensing the tension, turned to the butler with a firm look.

"Let him be. He's only here to say goodbye. There's no need to be so harsh," Kaya said, her tone making it clear she was displeased with the butler's attitude.

Ethel nodded, understanding that it was time to go. With a final look at Kaya, who still wore a sad expression, he bid her farewell.

"I wish you all the best, Kaya. I hope our paths cross again someday," Ethel said before stepping away from the window.

As he landed back on the ground, Ethel cast a final glance at the butler. Their eyes met in a tense silence, a look that conveyed both distrust and challenge, though neither spoke a word. The butler finally turned and retreated into the mansion, leaving Ethel alone with his thoughts.

With his katana at his side and his backpack securely fastened, Ethel began walking towards the port. His steps were firm and determined, increasingly aware that he was about to embark on a new chapter of his adventure.

Upon reaching the port, Ethel was greeted by Usopp, his friends, the elderly shipwright, and several of his workers. There was a palpable mix of excitement and anticipation in the air.

"Good morning, everyone," Ethel greeted with a broad smile. "It seems the day has finally arrived."

The elderly shipwright, visibly excited, stepped forward to showcase his masterpiece.

"This is your new ship. Take good care of her, lad," the old man said with pride, his voice resonating with strength.

The onlookers were awestruck by the sight of the vessel. The three majestic sails, painted in a deep dark blue, fluttered in the wind, and the deck was even more spacious than Ethel had imagined. The ship, though designed for a small crew, exuded an aura of power and elegance.

The shipwright, his eyes gleaming with pride, stepped forward as Ethel boarded the ship. With a smile, he began explaining the details of his creation.

"This ship is a real gem, lad. As you can see, it has three main sails that not only give it speed but also excellent maneuverability. The design of these sails ensures that you can sail in both gentle breezes and fierce storms. Even in the Grand Line, this ship will be able to handle whatever the sea throws at it," he said, pointing to the sails that fluttered majestically in the air.

"It's a fine ship. Thank you all so much for your hard work," Ethel expressed sincerely as he stepped onto the deck, feeling the solid wood beneath his feet.

"It's amazing! I want one just like it!" Usopp exclaimed, his eyes shining with excitement. His friends, caught up in the enthusiasm, began jumping and shouting, following his lead.

Ethel smiled at Usopp and the children's reactions, appreciating their excitement. Then, he turned to the elderly shipwright and his workers, bowing his head slightly in a gesture of respect.

"I'll make good use of this ship. Thank you for giving me the means to continue my journey," Ethel said, with renewed determination in his voice.

The elderly shipwright nodded, satisfied with the young adventurer's words.

Before setting sail, Ethel turned to Usopp with a serious, yet camaraderie-filled expression.

"Usopp, thank you for these days. Before I go, I want you to know that you have an incredible talent as a marksman. Believe in yourself more. Take on challenges you never thought possible because that's the only way you'll become the brave warrior you aspire to be. I'm sure we'll meet again, but when we do, I want to see that you've become stronger," Ethel said firmly, looking directly at Usopp as the ship began to pull away from the port.

Usopp, with tears in his eyes, nodded vigorously, raising a hand in farewell.

"I swear, Ethel! I'll become the bravest warrior of the sea!" he shouted, his voice filled with determination as he watched his friend disappear into the horizon.

With his course set for Loguetown, as the sailors at the port had advised, Ethel knew it was only a matter of days before he reached the island where everything began and ended. The wind filled the sails of the ship, propelling it toward its destination, while back at the port, people watched him depart, admiring the courage of the young sailor. Usopp, still with tears in his eyes, stood on the pier, resolute in his promise to his friend.