One Piece Devouring Fruit - Chapter 55

When the day of departure arrived, Michion’s mother, Lofina, found it hard to say goodbye. Dugh Lofina was reluctant to let Michion go; after some discussions, she understood his determination to become stronger. Realizing she couldn’t hold him back and knowing Admiral accomplished anything to ensure safety, she eventually relented.

Thus, the group embarked on the naval ship with dreams of adventure, planning to eradicate roaming pirates and explore the charms of other islands.

Even if they didn’t engage in battles, the experience gained from sailing would be invaluable. The proportion of fighting during a voyage is not insignificant; the various unexpected situations encountered at sea provide the most experience.

However, traveling in reality often differs from the fantasy of traveling. Like in his previous life, Michion found the anticipation usually more significant than the reality, where various hassles could make one feel foolish.

Reality rarely aligns with fantasy.

Michion and his crew encountered this disparity soon enough. Just three days out at sea, they were caught in a storm, which broke their compass, left and left aimlessly drifting on the theist ocean. To make matters worse, they hadn’t yet to catch fish that day.

Tina realized how invaluable navigation skills are at sea, looking at Michion with gratitude that puzzled him.

Meanwhile, Vice Admiral Ark, capable of quickly catching sea creatures, chose not to intervene. For him, unless a large Sea King appeared, regular sea creatures posed no challenge.

He believed it wouldn’t hurt to let the youngsters fend for themselves, considering it a part of their training. They would have to figure out how to get meat if they wanted meat, thus gaining valuable survival experience.

“This is also a test for you as their leader,” Ark thought, observing Michion quietly eating his meal without complaints. He was curious to see how Michion would handle the situation.

Given Michion’s royal background and the strategic value of his Devil Fruit abilities, the Navy highly regarded him. It was evident that Michion had already formed a close-knit group within the Navy training camp, with most of his peers rallying around him.

The Navy did not discourage such groupings, as factions within the Navy were not frowned upon. Each Admiral had their faction. Forming factions could ensure trusted allies and reliable comrades who could be counted on in times of need.

The Navy had no objections to Michion’s status and ambitions. Given that Gaius, the current king, was still in his prime, it would be long before Michion would inherit the throne. Hence, they welcomed Michion’s rise as a prominent figure within the Navy.

PerhapByime Michion was expected to take the throne; he might prefer to remain in the Navy and pass on the kingship to his offspring. This speculation was not far-fetched, especially given the progress Tina and the others were making under Michion’s leadership.

Currently, Michion’s exemplary behavior has encouraged the group. They all gathered to eat without complaints, even Sora, who had stopped grumbling.

Ark was impressed by Michion’s ability to lead by example and foster compliance from his peers. This kind of respect required significant charisma and leadership.

Unaware of the Vice Admiral’s thoughts, Michion was busy organizing the group’s preparations for dinner.

“From this afternoon, we need to start gathering food. Tina, you should organize the Navy personnel on the ship to fish. I believe, given your skills, no one will underestimate you. Besides, everyone wants to eat, so they won’t refuse,” Michion instructed.

“But relying on fishing alone won’t be enough to feed everyone on the ship,” Tina questioned, and the others nodded in agreement. Providing only for themselves might lead to resentment from the rest of the crew.

“Don’t worry, the fish are just the side dish,” Michion reassured them before heading to the kitchen to speak with the cook.

“I’ll catch a big one!” Sora boasted confidently.

Tina and the others quickly organized a considerable effort, and the Navy personnel, recognizing their competence from previous battles, did not underestimate them. Their strength was clearly above the average North Blue soldiers.

The afternoon passed quickly, and the group encountered a school of fish, which excited everyone. Many skilled swimmers jumped into the sea to catch fish, creating a lively scene. However, the fish were small and insufficient to feed everyone on board.

Despite their disappointment, they remained hopeful, trusting Michion’s confident assurances about dinner.

Many people were already there in the mess hall, eating golden, crispy slices.

“You’re here! I’ve prepared your portions,” Michion called from a corner of the mess hall.

Sean grabbed a piece and bit into it, savoring the salty, crispy texture that whetted his appetite.

“What is this? It’s delicious!” Sean exclaimed, reaching for another piece.

“It’s fried bread made from flour, different from regular bread. After frying and adding some salt, it turns into these delicious crisps,” Michion smiled.

Intrigued by the new dish, everyone started tasting the crisps, quickly finding them addictive.

As the aroma wafted through the air.

“As they enjoyed the fried bread, it smelled like fish soup.” They realized why Michion had asked them to fish, so they understood his plan to make fish soup.

“Although the fish meat is scarce, making it into soup is enough for everyone,” Michion said, reminiscing as he took a bite of the golden, fried bread.

This particular recipe had never been seen before. To others in this world, it was a novelty, but to Michion, it was a taste of home.

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