Reborn as Mihawk's son-one piece

The dawn broke with a fierce wind, stirring the waves around Kuraigana Island into a frenzy. Ezra stood on the cliffside, gazing out at the tumultuous ocean. Today, Mihawk had promised something different, something he described only as "a test of resolve." Ezra's mind churned with anticipation and a hint of unease.

Selena met him as he prepared for the day, her calm presence a stark contrast to the stormy skies. She handed him a bundle wrapped in dark fabric. "Your father said you'll need this."

Ezra unfolded the bundle to reveal a finely crafted blade. It was smaller than Mihawk's Yoru, but it carried an air of precision and lethality. The blade shimmered with a faint blue sheen, and the hilt was wrapped in black leather, its design simple yet elegant.

"It's beautiful," Ezra said, running his fingers along the blade's edge. "But why now?"

Selena's expression softened. "Because today isn't just another training session. Mihawk believes you're ready to face something more. This blade represents your next step. Wield it with care, Ezra."

He nodded, sliding the blade into its sheath and fastening it to his side. The weight felt unfamiliar but reassuring, a tangible reminder of how far he had come.

Mihawk waited for him at the far end of the island, near a secluded beach where jagged rocks jutted out of the water like teeth. The wind howled, carrying with it the scent of salt and the promise of challenge. Ezra approached, his new blade at his side.

Mihawk turned to face him, his piercing gaze as sharp as ever. "Today, you will face the Sea Kings that dwell near these shores."

Ezra's heart skipped a beat. Sea Kings were the stuff of legends, massive and terrifying creatures that ruled the oceans. He had read about them in books and heard tales from sailors, but the thought of confronting one made his palms sweat.

"Why?" Ezra asked, his voice steady despite the knot in his stomach.

Mihawk's expression was unreadable. "Because the sea does not care for hesitation or fear. If you are to navigate this world, you must learn to stand firm in the face of overwhelming odds. Consider this your first step into the reality of the path you've chosen."

Ezra swallowed hard but nodded. "What do I need to do?"

Mihawk gestured toward a small boat anchored at the water's edge. "Take the boat and sail to the center of the cove. The Sea Kings are drawn to movement. When one appears, you must defend yourself."

Selena's words from earlier echoed in his mind: We just want you to be true to yourself. Taking a deep breath, Ezra stepped into the boat, gripping the oars tightly. The waves rocked him as he rowed toward the open water, every stroke of the oars bringing him closer to the unknown.

The cove was eerily quiet, the only sounds the creak of the boat and the distant crash of waves against the rocks. Ezra's senses were on high alert, his hand resting on the hilt of his blade. Minutes passed, each one stretching into eternity.

Then, the water shifted. A massive shadow appeared beneath the surface, its sheer size making Ezra's breath catch. The Sea King emerged with a roar, its serpentine body rising high above the boat. Its scales glistened like wet stone, and its eyes burned with primal fury.

Ezra's instincts took over. As the creature lunged, he leaped to the side, narrowly avoiding its snapping jaws. The boat rocked violently, threatening to capsize. Drawing his blade, Ezra steadied himself and locked eyes with the beast.

The Sea King struck again, its massive tail sweeping toward him. Ezra ducked, the force of the blow sending a spray of water into the air. Seizing the opportunity, he dashed forward, slashing at the creature's side. The blade bit into its flesh, drawing a spray of dark blood. The Sea King roared in pain, retreating momentarily.

Ezra's chest heaved as he assessed the situation. The creature was faster than he anticipated, its movements unpredictable. But he remembered Mihawk's teachings: control your breathing, read your opponent, strike with intent.

When the Sea King lunged again, Ezra was ready. He sidestepped its attack, pivoting smoothly and driving his blade into the soft flesh beneath its jaw. The creature thrashed, nearly throwing him into the water, but he held firm. With a final roar, the Sea King collapsed, its massive body sinking beneath the waves.

Ezra fell to his knees in the boat, his body trembling from the effort. He stared at the blood-streaked water, the reality of what he had just accomplished sinking in. A mix of exhaustion and exhilaration washed over him.

By the time he returned to the shore, the sun was beginning to set. Mihawk stood waiting, his expression as stoic as ever, while Selena watched from a distance, her hands clasped tightly.

Ezra stepped onto the sand, his legs unsteady. He met Mihawk's gaze, unsure of what to expect.

"You survived," Mihawk said simply. "Good."

Ezra frowned. "That's it? No advice? No critique?"

A faint smile tugged at Mihawk's lips. "The sea has already taught you what you needed to learn. My words would only dilute the lesson."

Selena approached, her expression a mix of pride and relief. "You've proven yourself today, Ezra. Not to us, but to yourself. That's what matters most."

Ezra nodded, her words resonating deeply. As he looked out at the ocean, its vastness no longer felt as intimidating. He had faced one of its many challenges and emerged stronger.

For the first time, he truly believed he was ready for the journey ahead. The path would be fraught with danger and uncertainty, but he was determined to carve his own destiny—no matter what it took.