章 3: Meeting the Gray Terminal’s Navigator

If I were to outline our current goals in order of priority, they would be as follows:

Train and Build Physical Strength: Without strength, survival in this dangerous world is impossible.

Acquire a Ship: A reliable vessel is essential for navigating the seas and embarking on our journey.

Recruit a Navigator: Wandering aimlessly on the open ocean due to ignorance is not only foolish but fatal.

Earn Currency: This world uses "belies" as its primary currency, and accumulating wealth is vital for supplies, tools, and bribes if necessary.

Search for Opportunities: Once these immediate goals are accomplished, we can begin seeking islands that, according to my knowledge of the original work, house devil fruits or consider finding masters to train us in specialized skills.

To be honest, I don't care much about maintaining the timeline of this world. Even if I did, with 100 million other people transported here, someone is bound to spill the truth. The so-called "Heavenly Gate" doesn't strictly forbid us from sharing its existence. Instead, it imposes a few peculiar rules: people in our original world can view our lives through a third-person livestream but are restricted from seeing us during sleep or when more than 60% of our skin is exposed. Aside from that, the Gate provides no advantages—no powers, no knowledge of the new world—it merely throws us into chaos, expecting us to survive.

Sigh. I need to calm down. Losing focus won't help me or the team.

[Ethan's Thoughts End]

As Ethan finished reflecting on the situation, he approached John Derk's location. Closing the distance, he observed a man who looked utterly drained—his blonde hair unkempt and his body emanating a stench of filth. Despite this, Ethan remained composed as he addressed him directly.

Ethan Cross: "Hello, Mr. John Derk. My name is Ethan Cross. Let me get straight to the point—I don't believe in wasting time, yours or mine. I've heard about your story and your skills from a friend of mine, and I've come here with a proposal."

Pausing for a moment, Ethan let his words sink in before continuing.

"Firstly, I believe a man of your caliber would want revenge on the noble who wronged you. That is the core of my offer. My team and I have ways to help you gain the strength necessary to claim your revenge, provided you join us."

"Secondly, while I understand you might not trust us, let me assure you of two things. One, we possess weapons that could end your life easily, meaning we're not here under anyone's orders to harm you—if we were, you'd already be dead. Two, we're offering you a lifeline at a time when most would leave you to rot. Think of this as an alliance formed in your darkest hour."

"So, what do you say, Mr. Derk? Will you accept our offer?"

John Derk: "I accept, Mr. Ethan Cross. It's not like I have any better options. I'm on the verge of starvation as it is. After being beaten by the guards and cast out, I've had no energy to search for food. If you could spare something to eat, I'd be grateful."

Ethan Cross: "Now that you've joined us, we'll make sure you don't die of hunger. Unfortunately, we don't have supplies at the moment, but we'll hunt some animals to keep you fed. That said, we need to gather information before making any major moves."

John Derk: "Thank you for your help. What's the plan?"

Ethan Cross: "For now, we're considering setting up camp in the forest to hunt for food and train while you recover."

John Derk: "Beyond the Gray Terminal lies a vast chain of mountains that encircle this area and the walled kingdom. These mountains are home to dangerous animals and bandits, making them perilous to traverse. However, beyond the mountains are vast plains with small villages where life is more peaceful. Although these areas are technically part of the Goa Kingdom, the authorities rarely, if ever, enforce their rule there, leaving the people forgotten by the government."

"If we're to survive long-term, I suggest we make our way to the plains. Living in the forest might be feasible for now, but the plains offer stability and a chance to blend in. However, the journey to reach them will be treacherous, with death lurking at every turn. Are you still willing toq take that risk?"

Ethan Cross: "Even better! Danger is the crucible that forges strength. The journey will toughen us and sharpen our skills. But first, we need to prepare thoroughly. Gathering information is our top priority."

Pausing briefly, Ethan gestured to the group.

"While I gather intelligence, I want the rest of you to focus on hunting. We need food, and we can't afford to delay."

[Narration]

While the others dispersed to hunt, Ethan began his task. Moving through the bustling area, he approached every beggar he encountered, asking questions to expand his knowledge of this world. Piece by piece, he assembled a clearer picture of the dangers, opportunities, and secrets hidden within this strange land.