DXD: The Awakening Of Phenex

As the sun set on the horizon, painting the sky with shades of orange and gold, the Going Merry sailed gracefully toward Loguetown. The atmosphere on deck was marked by palpable tension, yet also filled with the crew's shared anticipation.

"You've exceeded my expectations," Riser said, breaking the silence as he watched Zoro and Sanji walking across the deck. He raised his hand and murmured something inaudible, releasing a subtle glow of energy that briefly enveloped the two before fading away. "The gravity training is over."

"Finally," exclaimed Zoro, stretching his shoulders as he felt immediate relief in his muscles. "I thought you were going to crush us with that insane technique."

"Insane but effective," retorted Sanji, taking a few quick steps to test his restored mobility. "I have to admit, my legs have never been stronger. But you could have given a warning, Riser."

"Warnings reduce the training's effectiveness," Riser replied, crossing his arms while keeping his gaze fixed on the two.

Zoro crossed his arms, observing the horizon. "If there's any decent swordsman there, maybe I'll finally find a worthy challenge."

"And if there's good cuisine," added Sanji, lighting a cigarette and exhaling a puff of smoke. "Since we're getting stronger, it's only fair I find something to inspire my next dish."

"You're ready for greater challenges. Let's see how you fare in Loguetown," Riser said, stepping forward. In an agile movement, he vanished in a blur.

"Soru."

"He just disappeared?" exclaimed Sanji, eyes wide as he looked at the spot where Riser had stood. "He just says that and leaves?"

Zoro clenched his fists, visibly annoyed. "He's underestimating us. Thinks he can just leave and expect us to follow without question?"

"Shut up, both of you," Nami interrupted, adjusting the helm with precision. "Riser always has his reasons. He probably went ahead to check out Loguetown. You should be grateful he trusts you not to mess things up."

Sanji huffed, still looking in the direction where Riser had disappeared. "I still think he could at least explain better what he's doing."

Zoro crossed his arms, muttering something inaudible as he leaned against the mast.

Meanwhile, Luffy appeared on deck, with Usopp right behind, both clearly excited.

"Hey, where's Riser?" Luffy asked, looking around as if expecting him to emerge from some corner of the ship.

"He went ahead," Nami replied, not taking her eyes off the helm. "Probably checking out the situation in Loguetown."

"What? He went without us?" exclaimed Luffy, a mix of surprise and disappointment. "I wanted to show him my Soru! I think I'm getting better!"

Usopp crossed his arms, looking relieved. "Maybe it's better this way. If he's there, we can enter the city without immediately drawing attention."

"But I wanted him to see!" insisted Luffy, stomping his feet on the deck. "When I show him, he'll see how amazing I am!"

Nami sighed, shaking her head. "Luffy, you'll have plenty of chances to impress Riser. For now, focus on not causing trouble when we arrive."

Usopp nodded quickly. "That's right, Captain. The less commotion, the better. I'd prefer to leave Loguetown in one piece."

"No commotion? That doesn't sound fun at all," Luffy replied, but his smile soon returned.

...

Amazon Lily

Merlin walked with firm steps through the grand hall of the Kuja Palace, her robes fluttering slightly with the breeze that swept through the space. Beside her, Nojiko and Kaya followed silently, observing the imposing surroundings. Ahead of them, Boa Hancock, seated on her adorned throne, maintained an austere yet curious expression as she assessed the visitors.

"These are Nojiko and Kaya," announced Merlin, her firm voice resonating through the hall. "They have been chosen by Riser-sama to join the next phase of our plans."

"Chosen by him?" questioned Hancock, tilting her head slightly, her eyes shining with interest. "Then I trust they are worthy. But tell me, Merlin, what does Riser-sama desire? When will he come?"

"Riser-sama will come at the opportune moment," Merlin replied with a slight smile. "For now, he has tasked me with ensuring everything is prepared. He deeply values your strength and loyalty, Boa Hancock."

"He values me?" Hancock blushed slightly, maintaining her characteristic composure. "Of course he does. He is magnificent. Tell me, what does he expect from me and my warriors?"

"Riser-sama has grand plans," Merlin began, stepping closer to the throne. "He wishes for you and your Kuja warriors to transcend your limitations. He proposes that all be transformed into vampires, solidifying not only your position as a Warlord but also your absolute supremacy."

"Transform my warriors?" Hancock asked, rising gracefully from her throne. Her eyes displayed determination and enthusiasm. "If that's what Riser-sama desires, it shall be done. Nothing would please me more than to serve him and strengthen our island."

Merlin nodded, satisfied with the prompt response. "Riser-sama will be pleased with your dedication. This power will not only ensure your strength but also solidify your leadership. Now, gather your warriors. They must be ready to receive this gift."

"Marigold, Sandersonia!" Hancock's voice echoed through the hall. Her sisters promptly approached.

"Gather all the Kuja in the hall. They need to hear my orders immediately," Hancock instructed, her posture reflecting absolute authority.

The sisters nodded, swiftly leaving to carry out the orders. Meanwhile, Merlin turned her attention to Nojiko and Kaya.

"You two," Merlin began, her tone mixing firmness and expectation. "You will train with the Kuja warriors. You will learn essential combat techniques and master Haki. This is vital for your development and for Riser-sama's plans."

"We are ready," Nojiko responded without hesitation, her gaze showing determination.

"If this is what Riser-sama desires, we will do whatever is necessary," Kaya added resolutely.

Merlin smiled slightly. "Very well. Seize this opportunity to become stronger. Training will begin as soon as the warriors are assembled."

...

Loguetown

Riser walked through the streets of Loguetown with unsettling tranquility, his boots echoing softly on the pavement. The lights beginning to illuminate the city gave it a vibrant glow, while the constant flow of people created a symphony of voices and footsteps.

"The city where Gol D. Roger met his end," Riser murmured to himself, his eyes observing every detail around. "And the place that marks the beginning of so many other dreams."

Blending into the crowd, Riser moved with the skill of someone seemingly invisible. No curious glances fell upon him, and his presence went unnoticed, even among the most attentive. It was as if the entire city was engrossed in its own routine, oblivious to the figure advancing with unperturbed serenity.

However, Riser's keen senses detected something. A presence. Not ordinary, but powerful, pulsating somewhere on the island. His gaze hardened momentarily, and a slight smile curved his lips.

"Interesting," he murmured, slowing his pace. "Someone on this island possesses remarkable strength."

Though tempted to investigate, Riser chose to ignore the presence. He knew it wasn't the time for confrontations. However, his demeanor made it clear that if this force sought him out, the outcome would be different.

'If it comes to me, then we'll deal with it,' Riser thought, resuming his usual pace. 'For now, there are other matters to consider.'

As he advanced, the streets opened into a broad and imposing square. At its center stood a simple structure laden with historical significance: the platform where Gol D. Roger, the Pirate King, had been executed. The weathered wood seemed to pulse with memories of the event that had shaped the pirate world.

Riser stopped at the edge of the square, his gaze fixed on the platform. He didn't approach immediately, preferring to observe from a distance. There was a palpable energy in the air, as if the site still echoed Roger's final words, which had sparked an era of dreams and adventures.

"The convergence point of dreams and endings," Riser said, more to himself than anyone else. He walked slowly to the platform's edge, his boots making firm sounds against the wooden floor. "So many risked everything for something that began here. And many more perished seeking the same."

Suddenly, he noticed something distinct. As his eyes scanned the crowd, a particular gaze captured his attention. It was a woman, dressed discreetly, yet her bearing exuded uncommon confidence. Her eyes, shining with intense and mysterious light, were fixed on him.

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