The morning sun shimmered over Fuschia Village, casting long shadows across the docks. Zoro adjusted the straps on his swords, green hair catching the light as he surveyed the small harbor. Riku fidgeted beside him, excitement and nerves written clearly on his face.
"We leave today," Zoro said calmly, voice steady. "But remember: the sea isn't forgiving. Observation, timing, awareness… don't forget what you learned in the forest."
Riku nodded eagerly. "Yes! I've been ready!"
Zoro scanned the small fishing ships tied to the dock. Insight hummed faintly, nudging him toward one sturdy enough to handle the river currents leading out to open waters. With careful precision, he inspected the ropes, the hull, and the sail, ensuring the vessel was safe.
"Help me with this," he said, gesturing to the mast. Riku worked quickly, tying knots under Zoro's watchful eye. Every movement mattered; mistakes could be fatal once they were on the water.
Once the ship was ready, Zoro boarded first, testing the balance, adjusting the rudder, and ensuring the ropes were secure. Riku followed, eyes wide as he took in the vessel rocking gently with the tide.
"Steady," Zoro murmured, one hand on the rudder. "We start slow. The goal isn't speed—it's learning how to handle the sea. Every current, every wave, every gust of wind can be an enemy if you're careless."
The ship pushed off from the dock. The gentle waves rocked them, and Zoro allowed Riku to take the tiller for a few moments, instructing him on balance and weight distribution. Insight guided both subtly, revealing how small adjustments could make a difference.
Hours passed as they navigated the river mouth, moving from familiar waters into the open sea. The horizon stretched endlessly, a vast expanse of possibilities, dangers, and challenges. Zoro's gaze never wavered. He was aware of every sound, every wave, every shift in the wind.
"This is just the beginning," he said quietly, green eyes reflecting the sun. "We'll face stronger opponents, storms, and the unknown. But step by step… observation first, action second. That's how we survive. That's how we grow."
Riku nodded, determination burning in his eyes. "I'll follow your lead, Zoro. Wherever you go, I'll learn, and I'll get stronger."
The ship cut through the gentle waves, leaving Fuschia Village behind. The sea was vast, unpredictable, and waiting. Zoro adjusted his grip on the rudder, feeling the wind in his hair and the hum of Insight in his mind.
For the first time, he felt the freedom of the open world. The path ahead was uncertain—but it was their path, and they would face it together, one deliberate step at a time.