22 years before the start of the Great Pirate Era, the East Blue begins to stir with the first whispers of new legends.

At the age of 17, Shanks, a former apprentice of the Pirate King Gol D. Roger, sets sail to build a crew and name of his own. The Red-Haired Pirates are still young, unknown, and far from the power they’ll one day wield.

In a quiet coastal village, Shanks encounters Ankit, a mysterious and calm teenager the same age as him. Unknown to everyone, Ankit is not from this world—he is a transmigrator, a soul from another reality, now inhabiting the body of a young man in the One Piece world. With him, he carries a strange and powerful Proficiency System, capable of evolving his combat abilities, unlocking skills, and tracking quests, all tied to his decisions.

But Ankit doesn’t seek fame or fortune.

He seeks strength—the kind that can survive the chaotic tides of the world to come. Choosing the path of a pure dual-sword-style swordsman, Ankit dedicates himself to mastering a style few dare to walk.

When Shanks offers him a position not as a follower, but as first mate and vice-captain, Ankit accepts—knowing full well that this small crew may one day change the fate of the world.

Together, these two seventeen-year-olds—one a rising pirate, the other an outsider with a system—begin their journey into the unknown. Their bond, forged by fate and ambition, will face trials, battles, betrayals, ancient mysteries, rival pirates, World Government plots, Devil Fruits, and the terrifying awakening of Haki.

As the sea calls, Ankit must grow quickly, unlocking the Swordsmanship Tree, battling powerful enemies, and shaping the legend of the Red-Haired Pirates from its very origin.

What happens when a system-powered swordsman from another world joins a future Yonko from the very beginning?

This is not the story of Luffy.
This is the legend before the legend began.

This is the tale of the Red Blade.

I've been pouring my heart and soul into writing this story, and your support and comments always keep me going! Lately, I've been thinking—would you be interested in supporting me through Patreon?


If enough of you are up for it, I'll officially launch it! Not only will it help keep me motivated and consistent, but as Patrons, you'd also get early access to 10 unreleased chapters, exclusive updates, and a closer look into the creative process.


Let me know in the comments if you'd support something like that—your feedback means everything to me!


Chapter 43 - Author's Note: