The first half of the Grand Line, Asuka Island.
This was a tropical island filled with historical ruins, rich in resources and blessed with flourishing agriculture.
A legend had been passed down on this island. Several centuries ago, there had once been an incomparably powerful Asuka Kingdom that ruled over many surrounding islands.
However...
On a night when a crimson full moon hung high in the sky, that ominous night, the three princes of the Asuka Kingdom met a beautiful shrine maiden for the first time—and all fell in love with her.
In order to win the shrine maiden's love, the three princes brought out the Seven-Star Sword, proof of the throne, and began a war that plunged the entire kingdom into flames. The land and sea wept as they absorbed the grief and resentment of countless innocent victims.
Then, the Seven-Star Sword, having absorbed the hatred and blood of countless people, transformed into a cursed demonic sword. It brought terrifying slaughter and destruction, utterly destroying the powerful Asuka Kingdom!
The cursed Seven-Star Sword then sparked conflict after conflict through blood sacrifices. War spread throughout these waters, engulfing the entire sea and plunging the world into complete darkness.
In order to save everyone from the war, the shrine maiden offered up her own life to erase the blood and hatred absorbed by the Seven-Star Sword.
To repay the death of the shrine maiden they had loved so deeply, the three princes prayed to the gods. They received three jewels from the gods of Asuka and sealed the power of the Seven-Star Sword, which had become a demonic sword, restoring peace to these seas.
A Spatial Gate suddenly opened in an alley near Asuka Island's bustling harbor, drawing the attention of many passersby.
But...
This was the Grand Line, a place