Sinking into the Sea Without Burden
The Heberfeller drifted silently across the vast sea. To keep a low profile, it bore no flag—vanishing from the sight of those who might care.
On the deck, Beta and Barrett locked hands in a fierce arm-wrestling match. Neither was willing to give in, their competitive spirits burning with an unyielding desire for victory.
In the medical room, Gillian was deeply engrossed in her research on medicinal concoctions. Occasionally, a strange chuckle escaped her lips, sending a shudder through anyone who overheard.
On the other side of the deck, Mitia danced gracefully, using the movements to refine her Devil Fruit ability. Her performance drew cheers from the younger crew members, who clapped in admiration.
Charlotte sighed, rubbing his temples.
How could they be so carefree?
This was the New World! The most dangerous sea in the world! How could they relax like this?
Fortunately, Lina remained as vigilant as ever, assigning watch duties with military-like precision.
Under the shade of a large parasol, Charlotte reclined on a beach chair, sipping iced juice as he brooded over the absurdity of it all.
The loudest commotion came from Beta and Barrett's match, their struggle occasionally punctuated by deafening cheers.
These idiots really have no worries at all.
Beside him, Mitis sat quietly, absorbed in a book.
Charlotte adjusted his sunglasses, glancing at him. At least someone knows how to enjoy some peace and quiet.
Curious, Charlotte peeked at the book's cover—"Rolando, the Big Liar." A well-known fairy tale from the North Blue.
Mitis noticed Charlotte's gaze and suddenly felt flustered.
"Captain Charlotte, I..."
Charlotte merely smiled, unbothered. Everyone has their own interests. That's normal.
Besides, he himself enjoyed smoking cigars. And the so-called "lie" of Noland's golden city? It was real. The man had been unfairly branded a liar.
"Reading is the key to growth," Charlotte said lightly. "It's not nonsense. Many legends in this world are buried by history. Just like 'Rolando, the Big Liar'—his story was true."
Perhaps within those old tales, there were valuable clues waiting to be uncovered.
Mitis hesitated before asking, "Captain Charlotte, do you think the Golden City really exists?"
Charlotte didn't even blink. "Of course it does."
Mitis was taken aback. Four hundred years had passed since the tale first spread. Could Mr. Charlotte truly believe such an absurd story?
Seeing his expression, Charlotte spoke meaningfully.
"The truth of history lies buried beneath the ruins. Time erases even the greatest legends. If you haven't searched for it yourself, how can you be certain it's false?"
Mitis fell silent, deeply moved by the words.
Charlotte continued, his voice calm.
"In my homeland, there's a saying—"
'History is written by the victors.'
Mitis's eyes widened. "What a profound insight… Captain, your homeland must have been a great place."
Charlotte merely smiled.
After a brief silence, Mitis seemed to gather his courage.
"Mr. Charlotte, what do you think a dream should be?"
Charlotte turned his head slightly. A dream?
His ultimate dream was simple—to live a peaceful life, free from trouble.
So he replied, "Dreams aren't about size. Some seek wealth, some wish for peace, others strive to be the world's strongest swordsman, while some chase adventure."
"A dream isn't defined by its scale, but by the passion behind it. No dream should be mocked."
"Those who chase their dreams are true warriors."
Mitis bowed his head, deep in thought. His long-held belief seemed to be growing stronger.
Charlotte glanced at him. "So, what's your dream?"
Mitis hesitated for a moment, then, recalling Charlotte's words, his resolve solidified.
"I… I want to write a book."
"A book?"
"Yes! A book called The Travels of Mitis. It will document the mysterious seas, islands, creatures, cultures, and histories I encounter. I want to record the world as a traveler, in the form of stories."
As soon as he finished, he felt a little embarrassed.
Charlotte raised an eyebrow. He hadn't expected this from Mitis.
But he had to admit—such a book could very well become legendary. If it were passed down through generations, Mitis's name would be etched into history.
Charlotte sighed. "That's a truly wonderful dream."
Mitis's eyes lit up, looking at Charlotte eagerly.
"Mitis, your dream is remarkable. It could become an invaluable work."
"R-really?" Mitis stammered, his eyes shining like stars.
"Of course. You just need confidence."
Charlotte sipped his watermelon juice, completely sincere in his words.
Mitis, now filled with admiration, looked at Charlotte as if he were a philosopher—a wise, rational, and kind leader.
He was so moved that he began to tremble with excitement.
Charlotte turned his head—and immediately regretted it.
Mitis is shaking way too much… isn't this a bit excessive?
BOOM!
A deafening explosion echoed across the sea.
"Enemy attack! Enemy attack!" shouted the lookout from the crow's nest.
Charlotte sighed, rolling his eyes.
Finally, they react… but isn't it a little too slow?
"Counterattack! Fire at will!" Beta bellowed, rallying the crew.
Lina rushed over, her expression serious. "Captain Charlotte, it's the Gentlemen Pirates."
Charlotte remained calm. He'd never heard of them before.
Over the past two weeks, they had sunk eight pirate crews. No one had noticed them, their reputation remained obscure, and they had made a fortune in the process.
Weak opponents. No witnesses. Extra profit. Why not?
Besides, any crew that fired without warning wasn't a respectable pirate crew.
There was no guilt in sinking them.
As Charlotte thought this, a shadow loomed above him.
Huh?
A cannonball. Right overhead.
Charlotte's eyes narrowed.
"Storm Slash—Flying Bird."
He stepped forward, his figure blurring as he unleashed a wind-slicing attack. A blade-like shockwave, shaped like a soaring bird, cut through the air.
BOOM!
The shell exploded midair, its shockwave sending ripples through the sky.
The wind ruffled Charlotte's hair as he exhaled.
Here we go again.