Chapter 2: The Way of the Sword

Ryo stood before the assembled members of the Akazaya Nine, his eyes filled with determination as he addressed them. "I know I am just a stranger who washed up on your shores, but I have a burning desire to become stronger," he declared earnestly. "I wish to learn from you, to train alongside you, and to become a warrior worthy of standing against the forces of tyranny in Wano."

The members of the Akazaya Nine exchanged glances, their expressions unreadable. Finally, Kin'emon, the group's leader, spoke up. "It is not an easy path you seek, Ryo," he said gravely. "But if you are truly willing to learn, then we shall teach you the ways of the sword."

With that, Ryo began his training under the guidance of Kin'emon, Kiku, and Denjiro, three of the most skilled swordsmen among the Akazaya Nine. Each day was filled with grueling practice sessions, as Ryo learned the proper stances, forms, and techniques of swordsmanship.

Under their patient tutelage, he began to feel himself improving, his movements becoming more fluid and precise with each passing day. But he knew that to truly become a master swordsman, he would need more than just skill – he would need a blade worthy of his determination.

With the guidance of an old but wise blacksmith, Ryo set out to forge his own katana, pouring his heart and soul into every swing of the hammer, every fold of the steel. As the blade took shape beneath his hands, he felt a sense of pride and accomplishment unlike anything he had ever experienced before.

In between his swordsmanship training and forging sessions, Ryo listened intently as the members of the Akazaya Nine spoke of Haki – the mysterious power that dwelled within every living being. They told him of its different forms and its potential uses in battle, igniting a spark of curiosity within him.

One day, as he concentrated deeply during his training, Ryo felt a strange sensation wash over him. It was as if a dormant power within him had suddenly awakened, pulsing through his veins with an energy he could not comprehend. But try as he might, he found himself unable to control it, the power slipping through his fingers like sand.

Weeks turned into months as Ryo continued his training with the Akazaya Nine, each day bringing new challenges and revelations. And yet, despite his progress, he knew that his journey was far from over.

As the sun began to set on another day of training, Ryo made a decision. He would travel to the Flower Capital of Wano, the bustling heart of the country, where he hoped to further his training and continue his quest for strength.

As he told his goodbye to his friends he traveled through the forests of Wano. After a few days of traveling by foot he sets his sight on what layed before him. The Flower Capital. Heart of This Country.