The first rays of dawn danced across Water 7's vast network of canals, turning the waterways into streams of gold and silver. Gondolas and small craft drifted along like lazy fish, pulled by seahorse‑like "bulls" that served as the city's living transport system—akin to vessels and vehicles in one. The architecture rose in cheerful tiers, terraced above water, colorful walls and rich red roofs stacked atop one another to make room for everyone in this Capital of Water
This was a city unlike any other—shaped not by hills or plains, but by its canals and shipyards, a masterpiece of engineering and artistry that flowed like water itself.
At a secluded dock on the edge of the grand city, the core of the Gale Serpents stood ready to witness a dream become reality. Today, they would build a ship worthy of their name… and give it life.
Maris unfurled her meticulously drawn blueprints atop an old wooden crate, the canals rippling behind her. "This isn't just a ship," she said, voice low with reverence. "It's our home, our fortress… our legacy. Every bit of this must reflect who we are—and what we intend to become."
Tessa stood beside her, eyes trained and sharp. "Adam Wood reinforced with Sea Steel, Skywood masts, windsails designed for precision and strength… this will be a vessel that moves like a striking serpent through the sea."
Selene folded her arms, dual swords resting lightly across her back. "A ship worthy of the Gale Serpents should feel unstoppable. Every inch of her should radiate confidence."
Iceburg stood a short distance away, mayor of Water 7 and president of the Galley‑La Company, his dignified presence calming yet commanding. Once a shipwright under the legendary Tom and now the guiding spirit of this entire city's industry, he oversaw dozens of master craftsmen at work. "Maris has the vision," he began, voice steady, "and Water 7 has the hands to build it. Galley‑La will craft this ship with pride."
For a full month, Water 7's heart beat in rhythm with hammers, saws, and laughter as the Aurealis took shape.
Day 1–7: The keel was laid deep and true, built of polished Adam Wood reinforced with Sea Steel—a foundation meant to endure monstrous storms and fierce sea battles. Tessa supervised every cut and joint with mathematical precision, while Lyra and Namiya mapped angles and rigging with exacting care.
Brina and Maeve darted between workers with gleeful energy, testing ways to incorporate culinary innovations that doubled as tactical mechanisms—heated spice vents, hidden recipe tools, even aesthetic feast stations meant to nourish and defend. Selia kept everyone fed and healed, her apothecary duffel a comforting sight in every corner.
Day 8–21: The hull began to rise, flowing and elegant, softened with artistic motifs evoking wind and freedom. Canals wide enough for ships guided massive Skywood masts into place, their Sky Silk sails stitched by master weavers in panels that shimmered even in test breezes. Transparent Crystal Glass portholes were fitted into the frame, promising light and view as if gazing from the deck into a dream.
Life in Water 7 buzzed around the site—people riding bulls through waterways, children playing along the edges of the canals, and merchants haggling over prices for rare materials. Iceburg's Galley‑La men worked tirelessly, honoring the spirit of the city famous throughout the Grand Line for ships that never broke and innovations that carried legends.
Day 22–30: At last, as the final deck planks were polished and the last ropes cinched, a faint radiance began to glow from within the frame. Sparkles drifted like starlight, gathering into an ethereal, slender form.
"I am Lumiviel," the voice came gently, like a whisper carried on the tide.
The ship spirit hovered in the golden morning, faint luminescence drifting from her form. "I am the heart of this vessel… the Aurealis. I will guide you through storms, protect you, and carry your dreams across the seas."
The crew was silent in awe. Lyra's eyes reflected the glow. "She… she's alive."
Maris stepped forward, hand trembling slightly as it brushed against the ship spirit's light. "Every wood plank… every steel beam… I gathered them with purpose. Adam Wood and Sea Steel, Sky Silk and Crystal Glass—each piece anchors my intent and the trust of this crew."
Lumiviel shimmered brighter. "Then I am yours, Maris D. Luna, and you are mine. Together, we sail beyond every horizon."
Under the warm lantern glow of Water 7's evening sky, the Aurealis stood finished. Her hull bore elegant wind motifs. Her 15–20 cabins, bathrooms, mess hall, storage rooms, garden deck, medical bay, and aquarium lounge were polished to perfection. The lawn deck stretched like a field of green, ready for evening gatherings and crew training alike.
Iceburg stepped forward, his voice a calm benediction. "A ship built by Water 7's hands and guided by your heart… she will not falter."
Maris bowed her head respectfully. "Thank you, Mayor Iceburg. Without your people and this city… she could not exist."
Selene grinned. "Fast, strong… alive. Just like us."
Lyra felt the sails flutter—though unused yet—and smiled. "We're ready for anything now."
Maris looked once more at Lumiviel, perched near the garden deck. "Welcome to our family."
The ship spirit's light pulsed warmly. "And thank you, Maris. From this day forward, the Aurealis will carry the Gale Serpents to legend."
The waters of Water 7 reflected the stars above like a mirror. Below, the city's canals rippled with stories of shipwrights, madness, and brilliance. From timber and steel, wind and water, a living legend had been born.
And thus the journey of the Gale Serpents aboard the Aurealis truly began.