Chapter 51: Chapter 51:Target Kano Country
The Nexus Pirates had sailed for over two weeks, leaving behind the small island where Nico Robin had officially joined their crew. Jason stood at the helm of their ship, the Nexus, holding a map in his hands. The ocean stretched out endlessly before him, but his eyes were focused on the path ahead. The crew had grown stronger, but Jason knew that their journey was far from over. His next destination was a place shrouded in mystery: Kano Country.
With a flick of his wrist, Jason summoned the crew to the deck. The sound of feet pattering against the ship's wooden planks filled the air as they assembled before him. Jason unfurled the map, revealing the marked location: a small, isolated island far from the major trade routes, yet known to some for its hidden secrets.
"Listen up," Jason began, his voice steady. "This here is the location of Kano Country, and it's where we're heading next. The journey will take us about a month. It's isolated, but that's what makes it perfect for our next move."
The crew leaned in, their faces filled with curiosity. Koala, who had spent time traveling through different parts of the world, raised an eyebrow. "Kano Country? That's a dangerous place, isn't it? Known for its fierce martial arts and hidden techniques."
Jason nodded. "Exactly. And that's why we're going there. We have two goals. First, we'll make Kano Country a sub-force of the Nexus Pirates. The people there are warriors, skilled in martial arts. It'll be a useful addition to our crew, and we can use their expertise."
He looked at Trafalgar Law, who was standing nearby, his arms folded and his eyes closed. "Law, you'll be key to this. I need you to gather any medical knowledge we can use to enhance the crew's strength. The place is full of warriors who might have valuable knowledge of combat and training techniques. I'm sure you can find something useful."
Law's eyes snapped open, meeting Jason's gaze. He nodded. "Understood. I'll keep an eye out for anything that might be of use. And I'll analyze the techniques they use to improve our crew's training."
Jason then turned to Reiju, who was nearby, her usual confidence unwavering. "Reiju, I need you to do something a little different this time. Reach out to your father—Judge. I want him to start developing a physique-enhancing formula. Something that will improve physical strength, speed, and endurance. It's time to take things up a notch for the crew."
Reiju's eyes gleamed with understanding. "I'll contact him right away. He's always been good with scientific enhancements."
Jason then scanned the faces of his crew, his gaze settling on a few key members. "Now, as we prepare to make our move, I'm going to continue focusing on training. The majority of you already have your training regimens, but there are a few people who need my attention."
He paused, looking at Nico Robin, who stood silently, her face unreadable. "Robin, I want you to focus on two things: the Finger Gun technique and Soru. Both will be crucial for your development. You already have the Hana Hana no Mi, but these techniques will allow you to fight with greater precision and speed, which is something you'll need to truly unleash the full potential of your Devil Fruit. Finger Gun will enhance your combat versatility, and Soru will give you the mobility to match your opponents."
Robin nodded slowly, acknowledging Jason's words. Her expression was calm, but the determination in her eyes was unmistakable. She had spent her life running from enemies, relying on her intelligence and cunning. But now, under Jason's guidance, she would unlock a new level of power.
Jason then turned to Monet and Sugar, who were nearby, eager to continue their training. "Monet, your Snow-Snow Fruit is strong, but it still lacks versatility in real combat. You've got the right idea, but I need you to focus on using your ice abilities to create defensive structures and control the terrain. Imagine turning the battlefield itself into a weapon. The more you control your surroundings, the more powerful your attacks will become."
Monet nodded, a serious expression on her face. She understood the weight of Jason's words. She was a Logia user, and that meant she could shape the battlefield to her will. But she also needed to learn how to think on her feet, adapting her environment to her advantage.
Jason then shifted his attention to Sugar, who was still a bit hesitant about training. "Sugar, you've got the ability to turn people into toys, but your biggest weakness is your physical speed. Your opponents are fast, and if you can't land a touch, your ability won't be effective. I want you to start working on your speed—reaction time, reflexes, and your ability to predict your opponents' moves. We'll also work on improving your physical conditioning so you can keep up with anyone."
Sugar folded her arms, pouting slightly. "I'm not a fighter like the rest of you."
Jason's grin was confident. "You don't need to be a fighter. You need to be fast and precise. Once you can land that touch, you'll have the advantage. We'll make sure you're ready."
With that, Jason called an end to the meeting. The crew dispersed, each with their own focus and their eyes set on the journey ahead. As the days passed, the crew continued their training under Jason's watchful eye, pushing their limits and sharpening their skills. Robin focused on mastering the Finger Gun and Soru, her movements becoming sharper and more fluid with each passing day. Monet experimented with her ice abilities, creating intricate frost structures and shaping the environment to her advantage. Sugar worked tirelessly on her speed, her movements becoming faster and more controlled as she learned to predict the actions of her opponents.
The journey toward Kano Country was long, but Jason could feel the tension building. The crew was improving, and he knew that the challenges ahead would be fierce. But he was confident. With the crew's growing strength, they would be ready for anything.
A month passed in a blur of training, discussions, and preparations. Jason stood at the helm once more, staring ahead at the island on the horizon. Kano Country. The island was known for its martial arts, but there was more to it than that. It held secrets—secrets that Jason was eager to uncover. The powerful technique of Hasshoken, a martial art said to enhance strength to godlike levels, was one of those secrets.
As they docked at the island, the crew readied themselves for the task at hand. Jason turned to his crew, his expression firm. "This is it. We make Kano Country a part of the Nexus Pirates, and we uncover the secrets of Hasshoken. If we can master it, it will change everything."
Koala stepped forward, her usual enthusiasm present. "Let's get to work!"
Jason's gaze swept across the crew. They were ready. It was time to claim what was rightfully theirs.
As they disembarked from the ship, the crew could sense the atmosphere shift. The air was thick with the weight of ancient secrets and powerful techniques. But they weren't afraid. They were the Nexus Pirates. And with Jason leading them, nothing could stand in their way.
The mission had begun.