Gan Fall and the Chief exchanged puzzled looks when Rolan mentioned the "New World." Neither had ever heard the term before.
Rolan continued, calmly explaining: "This world is divided into the Four Seas and the Grand Line. The Grand Line splits into two halves. Sky Island lies in the first half. If we want to truly build our strength and influence, we must aim for the New World—the second half of the Grand Line."
After listening, both Old Men understood why Rolan intended to relocate Sky Island.
Gan Fall nodded. "We never fully understood the world of the Blue Sea. Our lives have been confined to this island for generations. Even if Sky Island moves, our people will still be united—no matter where we go."
The Chief adjusted his dog-head hat. "When do you plan to make the move, God?"
Rolan frowned slightly, thinking. "At most, one year. That means we must gather our strength."
Gan Fall clasped his hands. "Starting tomorrow, I will direct the people of Angel Island to build housing and commercial districts based on our plan."
The Chief added, "I will lead the Shandia to clear and reshape the terrain. We'll make room for our future."
Rolan looked at the two men before him. Respect filled his heart. These weren't just advisors — they were veterans, leaders who had fought for their people all their lives.
He reached into system space and pulled out a large bag of senzu beans. He handed it to them carefully.
Gan Fall blinked. "God, what is this?"
"These are recovery pills. They can heal even severe wounds within minutes, as long as one's heart still beats." Rolan said.
The two Old Men exchanged glances, hesitation in their eyes.
Rolan smiled. "There are two thousand here. Come to me when you need more."
The Chief opened his mouth to refuse, but Rolan interrupted him with a wave. "Do not worry. Construction work is dangerous. Keep these for emergencies."
"You deserve them," Rolan continued. "Think of this as a gift from your God."
The Old Men bowed, deeply touched. Rolan blocked their attempt to kneel again with a soft wave of his hand. "With me, there are no rituals of submission. We build together."
Both men nodded, and they felt the weight of new responsibility settle on their shoulders.
Rolan nodded back at them. "Thank you for everything you've done."
Gan Fall looked humble. "It is our honor to serve, God."
They left to begin planning. Kuro and the rest of the crew went to the shrine to study maps and draft precise layouts for the new towns.
Watching them go, Rolan stared up at the moon — the same moon from his former life. Despite how far he'd come, doubt flickered in his mind.
He sighed softly. "This is a massive task."
A warm hand touched his. Rolan turned, surprised to see Nami beside him.
"Rolan, I believe in you," she said quietly. Her eyes shone in the moonlight. "I'll always support you."
He reached out, brushing her palm. "Thank you, Nami."
She leaned against him gently. "Just promise me you won't overwork yourself."
He smiled. "I won't, I promise."
Nami smiled back.
—
The next morning, the shy sunlight peeked over the horizon, casting a soft glow across Sky Island.
Rolan soared above the clouds, planning. He flew over the site of the previous night's banquet, watching as people stirred and stretched.
Traces of the celebration remained: scattered blankets, exhausted bodies asleep under the sky, some curled up with friendly wolves. It was a scene of pure, peaceful joy.
He shook his head, a small grin forming. Then he called orders.
"Wyper, lead your squad over there."
"Raki, you and Aisa head to that cloud patch."
"The Shandia, under their Chief — clear that area."
Down below, the Chief was already organizing his people. Across another stretch of sky, Gan Fall directed residents of Angel Island, laying cloud paths that would become roads.
Rolan nodded with satisfaction. The vision he had for his country was taking shape.
They soared, they built, they planned. For the first time, this island in the sky was more than just a domain of war — it was home.
Rolan thought back to his previous life and smiled. Maybe this dream is finally within reach.
Soon, he returned to the shrine, gathering his crew and allies.
"Friends," he said, voice calm but determined, "our pirate voyage may pause for now. We're not just pirates anymore. We're founding a nation — a base strong enough to challenge anyone, even the World Government."
Kuro's eyes glinted. "Count me in. And I'll use whatever strength I have."
Nami nodded. "Rolan, I'll support you in anything."
Lina smiled softly. "Same here."
Crocodile exhaled a ring of smoke. "Building a power capable of resisting the world… sounds exciting."
Lina: "Me too."
Kuro: "Roots are a worthy thing."
Lina: "Me too."
Robin: "I can't wait to write our history."
Lina: "Me too."
Zoro fell silent but nodded.
Enel said nothing.
Rolan looked at each of them, his heart swelling. "Thank you, all of you. For standing by me, even through my wild ideas."
He swallowed hard, feeling gratitude heavier than the clouds beneath them.
Kuro spoke: "Let's publish these new laws and post them publicly. People need to know what we're building."
Rolan nodded. "Do it. Transparency is part of this new world."
—
Later that afternoon, the sun bathed the sea of clouds in a rosy glow, like a sky painted in soft warmth.
In the square before the shrine, two figures faced each other: Rolan and Enel.
Around them sat Rolan's crew, the Shandia, Gan Fall, the Chief, Raki all curious.
Lina tilted her head, looking at Nami. "Why do you think Enel challenged Rolan so foolishly?" she asked quietly.
Silence fell for a moment.
---