Fame is something most people yearn for.
They long to have their names immortalized, to have people whisper of them as they walk by, to be someone.
For normal people, fame is a dream come true.
For Gyomei, however, his newfound fame was terrible.
Tales spread of a mountainous man who resided on Koko Island, with his massive build and weapons moving faster than the eye could see. They said that he was unmovable; a warrior beyond all comprehension.
Newspapers saw their chance. With their help, a single rumor spread across the entire land.
"There is a great treasure on Koko Island," the headlines read.
"A fantastic treasure, guarded by a man stronger than giants. He has never lost a battle, and his weapons move faster than the eye can see. No one knows what it is, but one thing is obvious: "
"Whoever defeats the man will take the treasure."
Buoyed by the papers, men flocked to Koko Island, determined to prove their abilities and gain limitless wealth. They challenged Gyomei one by one, refusing his attempts for peace, and were cut down.
But the fools looking for wealth were not the problem.
The true opponents for Gyomei were warriors looking to make a name.
They knew that with the reputation Gyomei had, for not attacking when you surrender, they had a good chance of surviving the encounter.
Flashback
"Himejima! I have come to challenge you!" A warrior, armed with a longsword, points his blade at the colossus in front of him.
Gyomei sighs.
"Please, I do not wish to fight. Just return to whence you came, live a happy and peaceful life." He clasps his hands together, tears beginning to run down his cheeks.
"I cannot guarantee that you will survive the encounter, my friend. Please return." Of course, as soon as the prideful swordsman heard these words, he attacked.
"GYOMEI HIMEJIMA! Do not underestimate me, for it will be your downfall!" A black sheen spreads across his blade as he swings at the mountain sitting in front of him.
The previous Stone Pillar catches the shining blade in one hand, still keeping his monk pose, but something happens that has never happened before.
He feels pain.
Just a sliver, like if you got pricked by a needle, but he still feels it.
"Hmm..." Surprised, Gyomei launches the man away with a palm thrust. He examines the calloused hand used to block the blade. A scratch, around 2 feet long and half an inch wide, remained there.
Gyomei was no fool. As soon as his opponent had placed that black substance on their sword, his senses told him of a bigger threat than before. Of course, it was still barely enough to injure his weathered hand, but it was interesting.
"Perhaps I can also learn this technique?" Gyomei mused. Unfortunately, the young man had already flown off into the distance.
"Hmm...it's fine. I am more than strong enough already." Gyomei's confidence in his strength had skyrocketed with the defeat of the recent opponents. He believed that there was no enemy he could not fight on even grounds.
Flashback end
Of course, some men were strong enough to take everything they wanted.
A twisted grin stretched across Rock D. Xebec's face as he read the morning news.
"Xuhahaha! Looks like a new possible crew member is up for grabs!" Maniacal laughter fills the air.
"Men! Set sail for Koko Island!"